What Are Veneers? A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding This Cosmetic Dentistry Treatment

As a popular cosmetic dentistry treatment, veneers are often recommended to patients who are seeking a quick and effective way to improve the appearance of their smile.

If you’re considering veneers, it’s important to understand what they are, how they work, and what you can expect from the treatment process.

In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide to understanding dental veneers.

What are dental veneers?

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are designed to cover the front surface of your teeth in order to camouflage stained, misaligned or misshapen teeth.

Since they’re applied purely for cosmetic reasons, veneers are much more commonly used on front teeth than less-visible teeth.

What problems do veneers address?

Veneers are often used to address a variety of cosmetic dental issues, including:

• Teeth that are stained or discolored
• Teeth that are chipped, cracked, or broken
• Teeth that are misshapen or uneven
• Gaps between teeth
• Teeth that are too small or too large

History of Veneers

Veneers were first introduced in the 1920s as a temporary solution for Hollywood actors who wanted to change the appearance of their teeth for movie roles.

Initially made of acrylic, they were glued to the actors’ teeth, which meant they didn’t last very long.

In the 1950s, dentists started using porcelain veneers that were bonded to the teeth with a special adhesive, making them more durable.

Types of Veneers

The two types of veneers used in dentistry include :

1. Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are custom-made shells made with premium white porcelain, which replicates the natural appearance of real teeth exceptionally well, and makes this type of dental veneer the preferred option.

2. Composite Veneers

Composite veneers are made from composite resin, which closely resembles the material used in dental fillings. Instead of being created in a dental lab like porcelain veneers, composite veneers are created directly on the teeth by your dentist. Although they are less expensive and don’t require as much enamel to be removed for placement, they’re not as aesthetically pleasing as porcelain veneers.

How are veneers applied?

The process of getting veneers typically involves the following steps :

1. First, your dentist will take an impression of your teeth to create a mold. This mold is then sent to a dental laboratory where your custom veneers will be created.
2. During your second appointment, your dentist will prepare your teeth by removing a small amount of enamel from the surface. This helps to ensure a proper fit for the veneers. Your dentist will then place the veneers onto your teeth using a special adhesive.
3. Finally, they will use a special light to cure the adhesive and bond the veneers to your teeth.

Who is eligible for dental veneers?

To be a good candidate for veneers, you must:

• Practice good oral hygiene
• Have few large fillings and no untreated decay
• Have healthy gums
• Not grind or clench your teeth
• Have a properly aligned bite

If your teeth or gums are not healthy enough for the procedure, your cosmetic dentist will guide you on how to prepare to get your veneers.

How long do veneers last?

With proper care, veneers can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, but their longevity ultimately depends on oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing regularly.

Aftercare for Veneers

After the veneer procedure, it’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions for care and maintenance. This may include:

• Avoid hard or sticky foods that can damage your veneers.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to clean your teeth.
• Floss regularly to remove plaque and food particles.
• Schedule regular dental checkups to ensure the health and longevity of your veneers.

What are the benefits of veneers?

The main benefits of veneers include:

A natural-looking smile

Veneers come in many different shades of white, so you’ll be sure to have a veneer that perfectly suits the shade of your natural enamel.

Quick and easy

Compared to other cosmetic dentistry treatments, such as crowns, veneers can be applied in just a few appointments, making them a quick and easy solution for improving your smile.

Improved self-confidence

With a brighter, more even smile, you may feel more confident and self-assured in your everyday life.

There’s a reason Hollywood actors seek out veneers to sport gorgeous looking teeth!

Stain-resistant and difficult to chip

Unlike dental bonding, veneers are stain-resistant, so you won’t have to worry about them becoming discolored over time due to wine, tea or coffee.

Veneers are also relatively strong, and rarely chip.

Preserve more of your natural teeth

Veneers require less enamel to remove than crowns, so you can enjoy impressive results while preserving more of your natural teeth.

May help prevent tooth decay

By covering your teeth, veneers reduce the amount of tooth surfaces that are exposed to sugars and acids.

Modern Day Dental – Dental Veneers in Jacksonville, Florida

In conclusion, veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry treatment that can provide you with a beautiful, natural-looking smile in just a few appointments.

At Modern Day Dental, we specialize in cosmetic dentistry, and use cutting edge techniques and equipment to create beautiful, natural-looking veneers that can enhance your smile and confidence. We’ll work closely with you to understand your unique needs and perfect your smile design.

We are committed to providing quality, personalized care at every step of the process. If you’re ready to take the first step towards a perfect smile and are in the Jacksonville area, come in for your consultation to see what your smile could look like!

We look forward to helping you achieve the smile of your dreams.