Veneers

Dental veneers are an excellent option for enhancing your smile by correcting various cosmetic imperfections. Whether you’re dealing with stubborn stains, gaps, or chipped teeth, veneers can provide a natural-looking and durable solution. Explore the following questions and answers to learn more about how dental veneers can transform your smile and boost your confidence.

What are dental veneers?

Dental veneers are ultra-thin porcelain shells custom-made to cover the front surfaces of teeth, effectively enhancing their appearance. They address a variety of cosmetic concerns, including:

  • Deep stains that resist whitening treatments
  • Gaps between teeth
  • Crooked or misaligned teeth
  • Chipped or fractured teeth
  • Uneven or excessively worn surfaces
  • Teeth that appear smaller than desired

The durable porcelain material can be expertly tinted to blend seamlessly with neighboring teeth, resulting in a natural and aesthetically pleasing look.

The application of dental veneers typically involves two office visits. During the first visit, the dentist prepares the tooth surface by removing a small amount of enamel to accommodate the veneer, ensuring it sits flush with adjacent teeth. An impression is then taken and sent to a specialized lab where the veneer is crafted using advanced techniques. A temporary veneer may be placed for protection while the permanent one is being made. In the second visit, the temporary veneer is removed, the tooth surface is cleaned, and the permanent veneer is securely bonded using a strong adhesive. The edges are then polished for a smooth and comfortable fit.

Veneers can be maintained like natural teeth with regular brushing and flossing. While patients may choose specialized products designed for veneers, routine dental checkups are essential to ensure their longevity and proper positioning. Although veneers are resistant to staining, avoiding foods and beverages that cause discoloration can help keep them looking their best.

With proper oral hygiene and care, dental veneers can last 15 years or longer, making them a durable option for enhancing your smile.

Unlike natural teeth, veneers cannot be whitened with traditional whitening products. If a veneer becomes stained or discolored, it will need to be replaced. It’s advisable to undergo professional teeth whitening before applying veneers to ensure they match your teeth when they are at their brightest.