Dental veneers are very thin shells attached to teeth to correct minor cosmetic issues like chips and stains. They come in two basic types, categorized by materials used: composite and porcelain. The type that works best for you depends upon factors like your budget, how long you need your veneers to last, and whether you need your smile to be brighter.
Dental veneers make an appropriate treatment choice for the following:
Before Getting Dental Veneers
Before receiving veneers, your teeth and gums need to be healthy. Any existing decay or disease can be treated prior to veneer placement.
Veneers may not make a good treatment choice for those who grind or clinch their teeth, because their veneers may eventually break or chip.
Although as little tooth structure as possible is removed to place dental veneers, it is important to realize that the process is irreversible once tooth enamel has been removed.
Composite Resin Dental Veneers
Composite resin dental veneers are constructed from a tooth-colored material that is affixed to the treated teeth. One drawback of composite resin veneers when compared to porcelain is that composite is not as durable. It also does not as closely match the appearance of natural teeth as porcelain does, although it can come close.
Benefits of Composite Veneers
Placement of Composite Veneers
Once your teeth are prepared, your dentist will carefully sculpt and bond the composite material using the correct color. The composite material will be hardened with the use of a special light and then affixed to your teeth. Finally, your new composite veneers will be smoothed and polished to match the appearance of your natural teeth.
Porcelain Dental Veneers
If you can afford it, it is normally best to go with porcelain veneers, as porcelain is a more durable material that is extremely difficult to stain.
Porcelain Veneers Benefits:
Placing Porcelain Veneers
A small amount of your tooth enamel must be removed in preparation for receiving your new porcelain veneers. Your dentist will create a mold of your teeth and determine the best shade for your smile.
Next, a dental lab will receive the mold of your teeth and custom-make your veneers. After a few days, your veneers will be ready for placement during a subsequent appointment.
Contact Us
Do you have minor cosmetic problems with your teeth like chips or stains that could be corrected with dental veneers? We encourage you to reach out to any of our offices to schedule a consultation. Click below and get started today!
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