Veneers

Veneers: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction to Veneers 

Veneers are custom-made tooth coverings crafted from porcelain, designed to match your desired specifications and tooth color. They come in various grades and can be applied by removing a minimal amount of tooth surface, or in some cases, no removal at all. Your dentist will present you with options for the number and type of veneers that will best suit your needs.

Appearance of Veneers 

Expertly crafted veneers resemble natural teeth, providing you with a refreshed look. They effectively conceal and correct issues such as misalignment, chips, gaps, pointy teeth, and disproportionate lengths. Veneers are particularly suitable for individuals with minor dental problems, as they offer a relatively non-invasive solution to achieve a natural-looking smile.

Types of Dental Veneers 

Several types of dental veneers are available, each addressing specific dental concerns. The choice of material depends on the issues you wish to resolve. Porcelain veneers are renowned for their stain resistance and ability to replicate the natural shine of healthy teeth. On the other hand, resin composite veneers are more affordable but may not have the same durability as porcelain veneers.

Types of Porcelain Veneers:

1. Single Shade: Provides a uniform white shade for those seeking a Hollywood-style look 
2. Invisible natural look: Provides a discreet, natural appearance. The veneers are meticulously designed with varying shades and transparencies to mimic the appearance of real teeth.

Advantages of Dental Veneers 

Veneers offer a relatively non-invasive method to enhance your teeth’s aesthetics, providing faster results compared to orthodontic treatments. They can be modified as your face changes over time, allowing for adjustments to match your evolving preferences. Veneers are fully customizable, enabling you to achieve your desired smile.

Disadvantages of Veneers 

Veneers are a permanent solution, and their removal is not recommended due to the tooth preparation involved, preventing a return to your original smile. Although veneers are resistant to chipping, they can still crack or chip, necessitating replacement. Improper care can lead to tooth decay underneath the veneer. In cases of extensive damage or fillings, a crown may be a more suitable option. Veneered teeth require regular oral hygiene practices such as flossing, brushing, and regular dental check-ups. If you plan on undergoing additional cosmetic procedures like lip fillers or Botox, it’s important to consider their impact on the appearance of your veneers. Once installed, the shade of veneers cannot be changed, so teeth whitening should be done prior to veneer placement.

Longevity of Veneers 

With proper care, veneers can last for a decade or more. As you age, natural changes in your gums and teeth may occur, leading to some adjustments over time. Veneers are highly durable, almost matching the strength of natural teeth. However, to protect your investment, avoid biting into hard or crusty foods, chewing on hard candies or ice, and using your new teeth to open packages.

Maintaining Your Veneers 

Caring for veneers is relatively straightforward and similar to maintaining natural teeth, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings. However, some precautions are necessary. Avoid consuming hard, tough, or chewy foods that can potentially damage the veneers. Always wear a mouthguard during contact sports, use a retainer or splint at night (especially if you grind your teeth), and refrain from habits like chewing on pens, crunching on ice, or biting nails. Additionally, minimize the consumption of staining substances such as red wine and coffee, as veneers can be prone to staining.

Cost of Porcelain Veneers 

The price of veneers can vary depending on your location, the extent of the procedure, and the number of teeth requiring veneers. Generally, dental insurance does not cover veneers as they are considered cosmetic dentistry. It is recommended to review your specific dental insurance policy for further information.

Getting Veneers: The Process

1. Consultation: A complimentary session with an experienced dentist to assess your suitability for veneers and discuss the potential results.
2. Appointment 1 – Diagnosis, Planning & Records ($500 records fee): This involves a full mouth x-ray and a discussion about your goals and any limitations in achieving the desired outcome. Your dentist will digitally design a new smile based on your specifications and a 3D scan of your teeth. The design process takes 1-4 weeks before you can try out your new smile.
3. Appointment 3 – Temporary Dental Veneers: Temporary veneers made from tooth-colored material are applied for a few days. This allows you to test the new look and provide feedback for the construction of the final veneers.
4. Appointment 4 – Placing the Dental Veneers: The temporary veneers are removed, and the final ones are bonded to your teeth. Initially, the veneers are placed without glue so you can approve the look before they are permanently attached. If necessary, impressions for a night guard are taken during this visit.

 After the anesthesia wears off, you can proudly display your new smile. A follow-up visit is scheduled a few weeks later to ensure proper healing, natural bite alignment, and the option to insert a night guard if required.