Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin placed over the teeth’ front surface to improve their appearance. They can correct dental issues like discoloration, chips, gaps, or misalignment.
To take care of your veneers, it’s crucial to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
People get veneers for various reasons:
- To improve the appearance of discolored or stained teeth that cannot be whitened with traditional teeth whitening methods.
- Correct the shape or size of teeth that are too small, too big, or unevenly shaped.
- To close gaps between teeth.
- To cover chips, cracks, or other imperfections in teeth.
- To improve the alignment of teeth without the need for braces or other orthodontic treatments.
But don’t plan on getting that celebrity smile overnight. Veneers are a process, and they can take more than one visit. Here’s a look at what you might go through selecting and becoming the owner and user of a beautiful, custom smile:
Consultation: You will meet with your dentist to discuss your goals and determine if veneers are the right option. Your dentist may take X-rays or impressions of your teeth to help with the planning process.
Preparation: To prepare your teeth for veneers, your dentist may remove a small amount of enamel from the tooth. This is necessary to create space for the veneers and ensure a proper fit.
Impressions: Your dentist will take impressions of your teeth, which will be used to create custom veneers that are tailored to your individual needs.
Temporary veneers: While your permanent veneers are being made, your dentist may place temporary veneers on your teeth to protect them and give you an idea of what your final results will look like.
Bonding: Once your permanent veneers are ready, your dentist will bond them to the front surface of your teeth using a special dental adhesive. The veneers will be carefully positioned and adjusted to ensure a comfortable fit and natural appearance.
Follow-up: After your veneers are placed, your dentist will schedule a follow-up appointment to check on your progress and ensure that everything is healing correctly.
Overall, getting veneers can take a few weeks and may require multiple appointments with your dentist, and you want to make certain that you are making the best decision for you in the moment and in the future. There are some drawbacks to choosing veneers:
While veneers can provide many benefits, there are also some downsides. These can include:
- Cost: Veneers can be expensive, and they may not be covered by dental insurance.
- Irreversibility: Placing veneers involves removing a small amount of tooth enamel, which is irreversible. This means that once you have veneers, you will always need to have them.
- Maintenance: Veneers require regular maintenance, including oral hygiene and dental check-ups.
- Risk of damage: Veneers can be damaged or dislodged if you bite down on hard objects or if you grind your teeth.
Veneers can enhance the appearance of a person’s smile and boost their self-confidence. Dr. Foote and his staff would love to help you choose whether they are the best option for your budget, your lifestyle, and your future.