Dental Veneers

What Are Veneers?

Veneers are super thin layers of porcelain or composite resin material that are custom-made to fit on the surface of your teeth. When placed, they look natural and healthy, masking imperfections and giving you an attractive smile. 

Veneers can be used to correct the following:

• Discolored teeth and cosmetic flaws
• Chips and gaps between teeth
• Broken teeth
• Misalignment
• Misshapen teeth
• Small gaps in between teeth

They’re also great for improving the overall shape of your teeth and giving you that bright white smile you desire. 

The 5 Benefits Of Getting Veneers

1. Look Natural: Veneers look natural and are designed to blend in with your other teeth, so no one will know they’re not your real teeth.

2. Last Longer: With proper care, veneers can last 10-15 years or longer! That’s much longer than traditional tooth whitening and other cosmetic treatments.

3. Quick & Easy: Placing veneers only takes 1 or 2 appointments, and the results are immediate, so you can enjoy your improved smile in no time!

4. Stain-Resistant: Porcelain veneers are highly resistant to staining from coffee, tea, red wine, and more.

5. Protect Your Teeth: Not only do veneers improve the aesthetics of your smile, but they can also protect your teeth from further damage or decay. 

Porcelain Veneers Vs. Composite Veneers

There are a few key differences to consider when choosing between porcelain veneers and composite veneers.

• Porcelain is a stronger and more durable material than composite resin and can last longer with proper care.
• Porcelain reflects light like natural teeth, making it look more natural than composite veneers.
• Composite veneers are less expensive and don’t require as much preparation.
• Composite resin, unfortunately, does not resist staining as much as porcelain and will need to be replaced sooner. 

The Same-Day Veneer Process

Before any dental procedure, we will ensure that your teeth are in good condition. Any treatments that are required must be done before the veneers are placed. If you need fillings, crowns, or other treatments, they must be completed before the veneers are placed.

Once we’ve determined that veneers are the best option for you, we will make impressions of your teeth to create your custom-fit veneers. Using the Planmecca Planmill, we can expertly craft your permanent veneers right in our dental office. Same-day veneers means no temporary veneers or extra visits to the office!

To prepare your teeth for the veneers, we will need to remove a very small layer of enamel. This process ensures your veneers fit properly and look natural. Once your teeth are prepped, we will place the veneers on your teeth using special dental cement. 

Once in place, you will have a beautiful and healthy-looking smile that you can show off with pride! 

When Veneers Won’t Work

Veneers are a great solution for masking cosmetic imperfections, but keep in mind that there are some cases where veneers may not be the best option.

• If you have severe decay or gum disease, veneers may be unable to correct these issues, and other treatments may be necessary.
• If you have large gaps in your teeth, veneers may not be enough to close them, and you may need orthodontic treatment or dental implants. Applying a veneer to a tooth with a large gap will not close the space.
• Sometimes, your teeth may be too crowded, or the jaw is so small that it causes them to become misaligned. If this is the case, you may need orthodontic treatment first. Once your teeth are aligned, then you can proceed with veneers. 

Recovery After the Procedure

After the veneer procedure, your teeth may feel slightly sensitive for a few days. If you experience discomfort or sensitivity, simply use over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen (Advil) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) to relieve the symptoms. 

Making Sure Your Veneers Last

Practice good oral hygiene habits to ensure your veneers last as long as possible. Brush twice a day and floss once a day. Be sure to visit your dentist every six months for routine cleanings and check-ups.

Here are a few tips to ensure your veneers last as long as possible. 

• Brush your teeth after drinking coffee, tea, or red wine. Although veneers are polishable and stain resistant, brushing your teeth after drinking beverages with high concentrations of tannins can help prevent staining.
• Get fitted for a night guard if you clench or grind your teeth. A night guard will help protect your veneers and keep them looking great.
• Avoid biting into hard or crunchy foods like nuts, chips, ice, and hard candy. These can chip or crack the veneers and damage your teeth as well.
• Avoid chewing on non-food objects like pens and pencils or opening packages with your teeth; these actions can cause the veneers to come loose or even break off.

Dental Veneer FAQ