Dental veneers are made from porcelain or composite resin. This thin shell is then bonded to the front of teeth. Getting veneers is an excellent way to improve the look of your smile and fix a variety of cosmetic dental issues. Here’s a look at how veneers work and the ways they can enhance your smile.
What are Veneers?
Dental veneers are custom-made shells that are bonded to the front surface of teeth with a strong dental adhesive. Porcelain is the most common material used for veneers due to its stain-resistance, natural look, and durability. Composite resin veneers are also available – they don’t last as long but are less expensive.
Veneers are about 0.5 mm thick and once in place, cover the visible portion of the teeth. They are a semi-permanent solution, lasting 10-15 years with proper care before needing replacement. The installation process requires some removal of enamel from the teeth to ensure the veneers sit flush with the surface. This is irreversible, so veneers are not recommended for young patients whose teeth are still developing.
Improving Color and Whiteness
One of the top reasons people get dental veneers is to improve the color of their teeth. Veneers can cover stains or discoloration that doesn’t respond well to professional whitening treatments. The thin porcelain shells mask uneven pigmentation, creating a uniformly bright and white smile.
Patients whose teeth have a greyish or yellowish tint can achieve a clean, bright smile with veneers. For smokers or tea/coffee drinkers who have deep-set stains, veneers can provide stain-resistant white teeth. The porcelain material is designed not to absorb pigments like natural teeth do.
Fixing Chips, Gaps, and Worn Teeth
Veneers are commonly used to fix a variety of imperfections with the shape and structure of front teeth. They can fill chips or cracks, closing gaps and strengthening teeth that have become worn or broken over time.
The custom-made shells cover worn enamel to restore a smooth tooth surface. Veneers are thicker than dental crowns, so they are well-suited to patching larger chips or gaps. Patients with gaps between their front teeth often get veneers to create an even smile line.
Aligning Crooked Teeth
While not a substitute for orthodontic treatment, veneers can improve the look of slightly crooked or misaligned teeth. They can lengthen teeth that appear too short or widen narrow teeth for a uniform appearance.
Boosting Your Confidence
In addition to the cosmetic improvements, dental veneers often provide a real confidence boost. Having an attractive, healthy-looking smile you can be proud of does wonders for self-esteem. The transformations made possible by veneers help people smile more freely in social situations, whether in pictures or talking face-to-face. Speak to a private and cosmetic dentistry practice to learn more.
Many veneer patients report feeling happier and more self-assured thanks to their grin makeover. Improving flaws that previously made someone self-conscious or embarrassed to fully smile is life-changing. Good dental care is linked to better overall health and quality of life.
With realistic expectations of the improvements veneers can provide, you can transform your smile in a big way.
