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!
Dental Veneers: How Cosmetic Dental Services Can Improve Your Teeth
Nice teeth equivocate to confidence, happiness, and a sense of pride. People love having nice teeth, and they tend to notice other people's teeth.
When your teeth don't measure up to how you'd like them to look, you can change them. Dental veneers are a top choice in cosmetic dentistry, but you can also choose other treatments.
So, what are dental veneers? Should you get them? What problems do they solve?
If you have questions about veneers, you may want to take some time to read this guide. You can learn more about veneers, what they are, and their benefits.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on how a person's teeth look. Of course, cosmetic dentists also care about the health of a person's teeth, but their services cater to aesthetics.
In this guide to dental veneers, you'll learn several vital things about veneers, starting with a description.
A dental veneer is a product that dentists custom-make for people. The best way to describe a veneer is a tooth covering.
When a person decides to get a veneer, a dentist creates one that fits perfectly for this person. Therefore, every veneer is unique from all others.
Dentists make these from porcelain or ceramic, in most cases. In some cases, though, dentists make them from composite, a plastic-based material. Most dentists prefer porcelain, as it's extremely hard, making porcelain veneers durable and strong. Porcelain is also an excellent material for veneers because it doesn't stain or discolor with time and use.
Porcelain veneers cover a tooth, which provides a way to change the tooth's appearance.
What Are the Common Uses for Them?
Next, you may want to learn the reasons that dentists use these. In other words, what tooth problems do veneers fix? Fortunately, veneers are versatile and offer a remedy for many common tooth problems.
Here are some of their uses:
Cracked Teeth
Adults and children can develop cracks in their teeth from trauma and other reasons. When a tooth cracks, it's susceptible to infections and damage, but you can save and protect it with a dental veneer.
Chipped Teeth
A chipped tooth is another common problem that dentists use veneers to fix. If you chip a tooth, you might feel embarrassed to smile. Not only does a chipped tooth look bad, but it's also prone to infections and other issues.
Misshaped Teeth
In some cases, dentists use veneers to improve the looks of a tooth that has a poor shape. For example, some people have misshaped teeth due to genetics. You can change the tooth's looks by placing a veneer over it.
Discolored Teeth
Dentists also suggest veneers when people have highly discolored teeth. Your dentist can determine if they can whiten discolored teeth. If not, they might suggest veneers, as they can make these any color you want.
Gaps
If your teeth grew in with a gap between two of them, you might want to correct this gap. A dentist can correct it by placing veneers on the two teeth by the gap.
If you need advice about dental veneers, contact us. We can answer your questions and help you learn the details that you want to know about veneers.
What Benefits Do They Offer?
Cosmetic dentistry services offer numerous benefits for people who choose veneers or other options. Here are some direct benefits of veneers:
They Offer a Solution
The top benefit of veneers is the solution they offer. If you have any of the issues listed above, a dental veneer can fix the problem. Veneers offer the ideal solution for each problem listed above.
They Look Natural
Another benefit of veneers is their looks. These products look natural, and no one will notice they are there.
They're Durable
Next, veneers are durable, which means they'll last a long time. You can ask your dentist how long they'll last, but you can expect them to hold up for at least 10 years.
The Process Isn't Difficult
One additional benefit is the simplicity of the procedure. The procedure isn't time-consuming or difficult to go through. Placing veneers on teeth is a standard procedure that cosmetic dentists often do.
What is the Procedure for Dental Veneers?
Getting dental veneers is a life-transforming event, but what does the procedure involve? Here are several things to expect:
Two Visits
Choosing a veneer is a great idea if you want nicer-looking teeth, and you can expect the procedure to require two visits. Each visit is vital for the process, and different things happen at each one.
They Prepare the Tooth
The dentist uses the first visit to create the impressions for the veneer. They may prepare the tooth at this visit, too. You won't get the veneer on your tooth until the second visit, though.
They Cement the Veneer to the Tooth
When you arrive for the second part of the procedure, the dentist will place the veneer on your tooth. They will not cement it in place until they are certain it's a perfect fit.
Once they complete these steps, you can look in the mirror and smile when you see the improvements.
Are There Alternatives?
Finally, you might wonder if there are any alternatives to veneers, and this is always a good question to discuss with your cosmetic dentist.
There are some other options for fixing the problems listed here. However, veneers tend to be the best option. They work well, last long, and aren't difficult for dentists to place on teeth.
Dental veneers might cost more than other options, but they're worth the cost when you consider their benefits.
Learn More About Veneers by Visiting a Cosmetic Dentist
Dental veneers offer a way to improve the appearance and functions of your teeth. They're long-lasting and durable, and they look natural.
Would you like to find out if they're right for you? If you live in the Seattle area, you can contact us to schedule an appointment to learn more about veneers and other services we offer.
This patient longed to have a pretty, attractive smile. She had very small front teeth and wanted to fill in the gaps.
Porcelain veneers were made for her four front teeth. This two-appointment procedure created a wonderful transformation. Because these teeth were small and had been perfectly positioned with prior orthodontic treatment, it was not necessary to grind them. Her “no-prep” veneers are stronger than veneers made for teeth that are badly broken down.
This patient wanted to improve her smile. Her teeth were worn and had spaces between them, and her composite restorations were discolored.
Porcelain veneers were placed on ten upper teeth. The veneers provided a dramatic improvement to her smile. Our patient is very happy that she made this decision.
This patient believed her teeth were a detriment to her profession. With a prominent public career, this patient came to our office in search of a smile makeover. She was self-conscious that her upper teeth were crowded and yellow. Additionally, her teeth were worn unevenly because of a clenching and grinding habit.
Her top priority was achieved — an instant solution. Porcelain veneers were made for eight upper front teeth. They were straighter and whiter in only two appointments. She was absolutely thrilled with the rapid and life-changing result.
This patient's teeth were rotated and crowded, and had uneven coloration. Crowding and rotation often affect the shape of the gum line. Notice that the gum line of the two front teeth is V-shaped rather than being rounded like a "U."
Porcelain veneers made these teeth both brighter and straighter. The gum line is more even and rounded above the two front teeth, producing a startlingly beautiful result.
This patient came to us seeking a cosmetic and functional solution. Her potentially beautiful smile was imperfect due to crowding, discoloration and the display of dark metal restorations.
Porcelain veneers were a spectacular solution. They were used to straighten, brighten and whiten her smile. She was absolutely beaming with her beautiful new smile at her final appointment.
This patient's smile had issues. His teeth were yellow and crooked, and his gums had receded.
This transformation was dramatic. His lower teeth were whitened, and then porcelain veneers were placed on eight upper teeth. At the same time, his gum line was altered by making it more even and uniform.
Our patient wanted to improve her smile. Her teeth were discolored and worn, and spaces had occurred between them because her gum line had receded.
Porcelain veneers were placed on the six front teeth. This improved the color and form, as well as closed the gaps. She was delighted with the very noticeable improvement in her smile.
This patient was not happy with her smile. Crowding, discoloration, wear and cavities detracted from her appearance.
Porcelain veneers restored health and beauty to her smile. Notice how the contours, translucency, internal characterization and surface texture all contribute to the natural appearance of these restorations. Even under magnification, it is impossible to tell these are restorations.
Improved appearance was a major priority for this patient. This patient had crowded and dark teeth with stains and areas of wear.
Porcelain veneers provide this smile with beauty and vitality. They do so by masking discoloration while still allowing maximum translucency. Translucency helps these restorations to blend in and appear natural in all lighting situations.
Multiple issues were a concern to this patient. Heavy wear had occurred from this patient's grinding habit. In addition, staining and crowding were a concern for her.
Porcelain veneers were the perfect solution. The healthy appearance of the gum tissue contributes to the beauty of these restorations. One advantage of porcelain veneers is that there are no metal substructures to darken the gums. No one would ever know that these teeth are not natural.
Eight porcelain veneers worked like magic for this smile. Only two appointments were necessary for this dramatic transformation.
Several issues were a concern with this case. This patient came to us with crooked teeth. Recession of the gum line had exposed yellow root surfaces on some of her teeth. The front two teeth had significant wear and chipping. All teeth had a gray and darkened appearance.
Porcelain veneers were the perfect solution. Her teeth became whiter, straighter and more youthful in appearance. This restoration made a significant improvement in her self-confidence.
Americans smile a lot. More, in fact, than any other nationality. While this allows those with perfect pearly whites to show them off at every opportunity, the important role that smiling plays in US cultural communication can be problematic for the one in three Americans who hate their teeth.
It's no wonder, then, that 42 percent of people state that their smile is the first thing they would change about themselves.
If you're among them, porcelain veneers are a quick and affordable way to make your smile whiter and brighter. But what are porcelain veneers and where can I find a place that does porcelain veneers near me?
Keep reading to find out all about the many benefits of this revolutionary smile makeover procedure, and how you can get it done right here at your cosmetic dentist in Seattle WA!
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Before we take a look at the benefits, what are porcelain teeth veneers anyway?
Veneers are custom porcelain overlays made for your teeth in the shape and color of your choice. Your dentist in Seattle WA will then remove a small section of enamel before applying a special resin to keep these veneers in place.
Some say that porcelain veneers are the best-kept secret in cosmetic dentistry. Even if you've never heard of veneers, you've likely seen them in the perfect smiles of your family and friends - you just didn't realize it!
The Benefits of Porcelain Veneers
The choice of cosmetic dentistry options available is almost endless. So, why get porcelain veneers? Let's take a look at some of the many benefits of getting veneers in Seattle:
Immediate & Long-Lasting Results
Other popular cosmetic dentistry options, such as braces and tooth whitening, come with a range of benefits. But one big drawback is how time-consuming it can be to get results.
As well as 24 months or so of wearing braces, you'll have to put up with constant follow-up consultations and the hassle of cleaning them. Not to mention, the awkward in-between phase of waiting for your braces to work their magic can feel never-ending. Teeth whitening is a much faster process in comparison. Although, if you opt for at-home whitening, this can take weeks or months and you'll have to repeat it every few years.
In contrast, porcelain veneers give you the results you want right from the start. Your cosmetic dentist in Seattle, WA can apply porcelain veneers in just two visits, correcting the color, shape, and alignment of your teeth in an instant. And, unlike whitening, the results can last for decades.
Instant Fix for Cosmetic Issues
There's no issue or imperfection that cosmetic dentistry in Seattle, WA can't fix - thanks to porcelain teeth veneers!
Whatever cosmetic problem you have, veneers can offer an immediate and long-lasting solution, creating a uniform smile that lasts for years. Some of the many issues that veneers can correct include:
- Chips
- Discoloration and stains
- Gaps
- Misalignment
- Misshapen teeth
- Short teeth
- Uneven teeth
- Worn teeth
Best of all, you can get porcelain teeth veneers to improve your whole smile or just for one or two teeth - the choice is yours!
Affordable Solution
If the many benefits aren't enough to persuade you, the fact that porcelain veneers cost a lot less than many other cosmetic dentistry options might!
There's no doubt that your implant dentist in Seattle WA can perform incredible and revolutionary smile makeovers for those with missing teeth. But a single implant can cost thousands of dollars. If you need to replace several teeth, the price can really add up.
As for braces, while the cost can depend on which type you go for and how long you'll need to wear them, a course of treatment can cost anything from $3,000 to more than $8,000.
In comparison, porcelain veneers cost an average of $500 or less per tooth, making this a far more cost-effective solution.
Stronger Teeth
Porcelain veneers might be a cosmetic procedure, but they make your teeth stronger as well as better looking!
Damage to the tooth's enamel can weaken the structure of the tooth, making it more susceptible to breakage. Veneers help stop this from happening by standing in for any missing enamel. As a result, veneers can strengthen your teeth by up to a whopping 95 percent.
Stain Resistant
Even if your teeth are perfectly straight, porcelain veneers can improve the color of your smile.
Teeth whitening is one of the best ways to make your smile brighter. But, the effects don't last. Natural teeth are prone to staining, meaning that habits like drinking coffee and smoking can soon take their toll on your pearly whites. If you want to maintain the whitening, you'll often have to go back for treatments every couple of years.
Unlike natural teeth, veneers don't yellow or become discolored over time. Since porcelain teeth veneers are stain-resistant, dark beverages and cigarettes don't have the same effect on them. Instead, porcelain veneers stay as white and flawless as the first day you got them.
Easy Maintenance
One of the most unexpected benefits of porcelain veneers is how easy they are to care for.
While you might think that they'd need special treatment or cleaning products, this isn't the case. Once they're in place, veneers look and feel just like natural teeth. As long as you brush and floss twice daily and go for regular dental check-ups, your veneers will continue looking great and the teeth behind them will stay healthy. But otherwise, you'll likely forget that you even have them, especially since they can last as long as 15 years with good care.
Confidence Boost
Saying goodbye to those crooked incisors, that glaring stain, or that unattractive chipped tooth won't just improve your smile. One of the key benefits of covering dental imperfections like these with porcelain veneers is how the transformation will boost your confidence. And, since there's no awkward in-between stage or need for follow-up consultations, you can look forward to years of perfect smiles from the first day your dentist in Seattle, WA fits them.
Your Guide to Porcelain Veneers
As this list of benefits shows, there are plenty of reasons to consider porcelain veneers for transforming your teeth and upgrading your smile.
From their affordable price point to the instant improvement they offer, it's easy to see why porcelain teeth veneers are a top choice for whiter, brighter teeth.
Want to know more about porcelain veneers? Feel free to get in touch with us or book a consultation so your cosmetic dentist in Seattle can explain everything in further detail!
All clinical photography untouched and courtesy of Seattle Specialty Dentistry.