Dental veneers are thin, custom-made tooth-colored shells designed to cover the front of the teeth to enhance their appearance. Veneers are permanently bonded to the front of your teeth to treat various cosmetic concerns such as chipped, cracked, discolored, unusually shaped, or smaller-than-average teeth. Some people prefer to cover just the impaired teeth, while others cover eight to ten teeth for a symmetrical appearance.
There are two types of dental veneers that you can choose from; traditional and composite. Traditional veneers are made up of porcelain and require some intensive prep work. On the other hand, composite veneers are made up of composite resin material and require minimal prep work. Both of them serve the same purpose, are fitted perfectly, and are highly durable.
The Procedure of Setting Veneers
The procedure of placing dental veneers usually takes a couple of dental visits and does not involve any pain. On your first visit, we will begin with a thorough examination of your mouth. This will include a visual examination and taking an X-ray of your mouth to detect any cavities, infection, etc. In such cases, the cavities or infection has to be treated before placing the veneers. Once your candidacy is approved, we will discuss the right type of veneers for you.
On your next appointment, we will trim down half a millimeter of the veneer-receiving teeth and take a mold of it that will be sent to the laboratory to fabricate your restoration. Once we have received your veneers, you will be called for an appointment. This appointment will begin with thoroughly cleaning your teeth and then etching them to allow a strong bond. The veneers will be placed on your teeth using dental cement and then hardened using a special light.
What are the Benefits of Dental Veneers?
1. Dental veneers are very comfortable and highly durable. With proper maintenance, veneers last for decades.2. Veneers are a better option in comparison to crowns or implants as these options replace your entire tooth, whereas veneers only cover them from the front. Hence, they maintain your natural tooth structure.
3. Veneers improve the appearance of your teeth, thereby boosting your personality, confidence, and self-esteem.
After-Care and Precautions
There is no special care needed for veneers. As with natural teeth, maintaining proper oral hygiene, along with regular consultations, is important. We would advise you to take precautions such as wearing a mouthguard while doing certain activities like sports, avoiding consuming highly colored and sugary foods as they can stain the veneers. Avoid chewing on hard substances like pencils or pens and opening packages with your teeth. This is beneficial for not only your natural teeth but the veneers as well.
Reach out to our dental practice in Salt Lake City, UT, to have a consultation with our dentist, Dr. Bishop. Call us at (801) 274-2500 or schedule an online consultation, and we’ll guide you further.
