From cosmetic concerns to customization, there are many reasons patients choose to get dental veneers.
Most commonly, veneers are often used to address cosmetic issues such as chipped, stained, or misshapen teeth. They can also be used to close gaps between teeth, improve the appearance of crooked teeth, or change the shape or size of teeth.
Keep reading to learn more about dental veneers and how they work.
What are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are designed to cover the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. They are typically made of porcelain or composite resin and are bonded to the teeth using a strong dental adhesive.
Veneers commonly address cosmetic issues such as chipped, stained, or misshapen teeth. They can also be used to close gaps between teeth, improve the appearance of crooked teeth, or change the shape or size of teeth. Veneers are a popular option for those seeking a more aesthetically pleasing smile without undergoing extensive orthodontic or restorative procedures.
The process of getting veneers typically involves a consultation with a dentist, who will evaluate the patient's teeth and determine if veneers are a suitable option. If so, the dentist will take impressions of the teeth and prepare them by removing a small amount of enamel. The veneers are then fabricated in a dental lab and bonded to the teeth during a subsequent appointment.
How Do Dental Veneers Work?
Dental veneers work by covering the front surface of the teeth to improve their appearance. The process of getting veneers typically involves several steps:
- Consultation: The first step is a consultation with a dentist to determine if veneers are a suitable option. During the consultation, the dentist will evaluate the patient's teeth and discuss the patient's goals for their smile.
- Preparation: If veneers are a suitable option, the dentist will prepare the teeth by removing a small amount of enamel from the front surface of each tooth. This is done to make room for the veneers and to ensure a proper fit.
- Impression: After the teeth are prepared, the dentist will take an impression of the teeth. This impression is used to create a custom-made veneer that is tailored to the patient's individual needs and preferences.
- Temporary Veneers: If the teeth have been significantly prepared the dentist may place temporary veneers to protect the teeth while the permanent veneers are being fabricated.
- Fabrication: The impression is sent to a dental laboratory, where the veneers are fabricated. The lab will use the impression to create a model of the patient's teeth and then use this model to create custom veneers that fit the patient's teeth precisely.
- Bonding: When the veneers are ready, the dentist will place them on the patient's teeth using a strong dental adhesive. The veneers are carefully positioned and bonded to the teeth to ensure a secure and long-lasting fit.
Once the veneers are in place, they can improve the appearance of the patient's teeth by covering cosmetic imperfections such as chips, stains, and gaps. With proper care, veneers can last for many years and provide a durable and natural-looking improvement to a person's smile.
How Long Do Dental Veneers Last?
The lifespan of dental veneers varies depending on a variety of factors, including the type of veneers, the patient's oral hygiene habits, and the amount of wear and tear the veneers are exposed to over time.
On average, porcelain veneers can last for 10-15 years or longer with proper care. Composite resin veneers tend to have a shorter lifespan of 5-7 years or less. However, some composite resin veneers can last up to 10 years with proper care.
To help extend the lifespan of veneers, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene habits such as regular brushing and flossing, as well as avoiding habits that can damage the veneers such as chewing on hard objects like ice or using teeth as tools to open packages. It is also important to attend regular dental checkups to ensure the health of the teeth and veneers, and to address any issues before they become serious.
Overall, with proper care and maintenance, dental veneers can provide a long-lasting and natural-looking improvement to a person's smile.
Dental Veneers in Westport, CT
Veneers are a natural-looking cosmetic treatment that can provide a dramatic smile makeover. They can be applied to one or several teeth for many aesthetic reasons.
With proper care, veneers can last for many years and provide a long-lasting improvement to the appearance of a person's smile.
To learn more about dental veneers, contact us today at one of our many locations.