In cosmetic dentistry, there are all sorts of entities that can help improve and restore a patient's smile. These run the gamut from dental implants to dental bridges to dentures and more.
However, in this article, we're not going to discuss any of those. Instead, we're going to talk about dental veneers. So, without further ado, here's everything you should know about them.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are essentially shells that go over the teeth. They're colored like authentic teeth, shaped like authentic teeth, and behave like authentic teeth for all intents and purposes.
They're attached to the teeth with the help of adhesives. These adhesives hold them in place for years, sometimes as long as a decade. Note, though, that veneers can fall off, especially if met with direct physical trauma (due to chewing hard foods, for instance).
If portions of your teeth are damaged, discolored, or misaligned, putting veneers over them can help greatly in improving their aesthetic. In fact, as far as strangers know, veneers are actually real teeth. When applied properly, they create the perfect smile.
Types of Veneers
In general, there are two different types of veneers: composite veneers and porcelain veneers. We'll discuss both of these in detail now.
Composite Veneers
Composite veneers are the more popular of the two options. This is likely because they're less expensive. That said, they don't last as long either, usually topping out at around 8 years.
These veneers can be shaped and put on in just one appointment. Sculpted by dentists on the spot, they provide the ultimate convenience for the patient.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are more expensive than composite veneers. That said, they're also more durable, capable of lasting between 10 and 15 years.
Thinner and more precise than composite veneers, they're manufactured in labs based on the shape and size of the patient's actual teeth. Porcelain veneers are considered more permanent than composite veneers, as they can't easily be removed.
Who Can Benefit from Veneers?
There are several individuals who can benefit from veneers. Some of these individuals include:
Those With Chipped Teeth
Maybe you chipped a tooth during a basketball game? Perhaps you grind your teeth regularly, resulting in noticeable wear and tear? In either case, veneers can benefit you.
By placing veneers over your damaged teeth, you can mask the damage entirely. Yes, the damage will still exist. However, because it's covered, it will be out of sight and out of mind.
Those With Discolored Teeth
Perhaps your teeth were stained by alcohol or cigarettes or some other substances? Maybe you've done a less-than-great job of tending to your dental hygiene? Regardless, if your teeth are discolored, veneers are something you should consider.
Veneers possess the color of healthy, shining teeth and will entirely block the discoloration present on your authentic teeth. Note, however, that if your discoloration is just minor, you might better benefit from teeth whitening services.
Those With Gaps in Their Teeth
Veneers can also benefit those with gaps in their teeth. This is true regardless of where the gaps exist.
How do veneers account for gaps? They cover them up. The veneer is made to be larger than the tooth that it's covering, thus taking up all of its space and then some.
Those With Enamel Loss
Whether it's from brushing too hard, drinking acidic substances, or otherwise, enamel loss can leave the teeth vulnerable, resulting in rapid deterioration and generalized pain. As such, it sometimes becomes necessary to replace the enamel with a synthetic entity. This entity is the veneer.
Dental veneers help improve the look of teeth after the enamel has been eliminated and help protect the teeth, reducing the risk of aches and pains.
Other Things to Know About Veneers
There are a variety of other things that you should know about veneers before having them inserted. They include the following.
They Require the Same Care As Natural Teeth
Now, you might be wondering how to care for dental veneers. In truth, you take care of them the same way you would take care of authentic teeth. This is to say that you brush them twice daily and floss between them every day or so.
Like natural teeth, the better you care for your veneers, the longer they'll last, and the better they'll perform. Get the most for your money by subjecting them to a daily hygiene routine.
They Require Little Recovery Time
When your veneers are inserted, your teeth will be numbed. As such, you won't experience any discomfort during the procedure. At most, you'll experience slight discomfort in the few days following.
Fortunately, this discomfort can be combatted with the use of pain medications like ibuprofen and the like. Within a few days, the discomfort will have subsided entirely, and your veneers will perform just like real teeth.
They're Compatible With the Vast Majority of Foods
Considering that veneers adhere to the teeth, you might be concerned that they're vulnerable to certain foods, like nuts or chewing gum, for instance. In the vast majority of cases, there's no issue between food and veneers.
In the few cases where there are issues, it's only the most extreme of foods that are troublesome. These include foods like caramel apples, hard candies, and the like. But as long as you approach these foods with caution, your veneers should be good to go.
Veneers Alone Can Make the Difference
Depending on the state of your teeth, dental veneers alone can make the difference you need. So, schedule an appointment with your dentist and discuss what veneers can do for you.
Are you looking for a dentist in Seattle? Seattle Speciality Dentistry has you covered. Schedule an appointment with us now!