If you are deciding to take dental veneer options, then you should keep reading this article. We would tell you everything there is to know about dental veneers. Stay glued.
Dental Veneers: What are they?
To elaborately tell you what dental veneers are, would love you to imagine a coat of paint on a lady’s nails. The basic fact of the coating is to give her nails aesthetics. So is the case of dental veneers. Dental Veneers are a coat on your existing tooth or teeth to help you meet your aesthetical functions.
A more defined explanation of what dental veneers are; they are thin, custom made shells of tooth-colored materials crafted to cover the surface of your teeth/tooth to improve appearance. All types of dental veneers require a form of bonding, they are glued to the teeth using dental bonding materials.
To adequately get the size, shape, and colors of the dental veneers you need, your dentist would have done everything to acquire these pieces of information. Most times, the process of acquiring a dental veneer involves
- A dental consultation
- Impression taking
- Construction of veneers
- Dental veneer procedure
Dental veneers are made from two sources; porcelain or from resin composite. The former is more resistant to stains and is more aesthetically pleasing. Also, porcelain is a glass-like substance that often permits the reflection of light. However, to make the right decision between which type of dental veneers is best for you, you would need to speak to your dentist first.
Dental Veneer: When should I consider acquiring one?
These are the major things that may likely be the reason behind your wanting a dental veneer.
- Discolored Tooth
Tooth discoloration most times are inevitable. They are often caused by certain habits, environmental factors, or genetic factors. If you have a discolored tooth, then you should consider a dental veneer.
- Teeth that are worn down
If you are grinding your teeth unknowingly, then after going through the orthodontic procedure of stopping teeth grinding, then you should consider a dental veneer to help you perfect your process.
- Chipped Teeth
Whether be it from a fall or maybe an accident, you need not shy away from your chipped Teeth. Dental veneers can help you replace them and no one would even notice.
- Diastema (Gap Teeth)
While diastema is appreciated and a factor for beautification, a few others who have space in their tooth find it embarrassing. If you are one of them, then dental veneers are for you.
What’s the process of getting a dental veneer?
For you to get a dental veneer, it usually requires a series of dental visitation during the process. The following processes listed described the patient journey of acquiring a dental veneer.
- Diagnosis and treatment planning.
Your dentist would expect you to be as open-minded as possible in order to effectively help you with your procedure. During this first appointment, asides clerking, your dentist would examine your teeth to make sure dental veneers are your perfect fit. Your dentist would further explain the cost implications and the part you have to play. Also, during this process, an X-ray and impression would also be taken.
- Preparation.
To prepare your tooth for the process, your dentist would reshape the tooth surface such that it is at the perfect thickness and shape for the dental veneer. Before trimming, your dentist would give you anesthesia to keep the process pain free. Afterward, an impression of your already prepared tooth would be taken and sent to the lab.
- Bonding
After the model is returned from the lab, your dentist would first test the constructed piece in order to determine its fitness. Then your existing tooth that would anchor the veneer would be cleaned, polished, and etched in order to help the effectiveness of the dental glue. A dental glue would be added to your tooth and the dental veneer is positioned. Once properly positioned on the tooth, your dentist will apply a special light beam to the dental veneer, which activates chemicals in the cement, causing it to harden or cure very quickly.
- The final steps
This involves removing any excess cement, evaluating your bite, and making any final adjustments in the veneer as necessary. Your dentist may ask you to return for a follow-up visit in a couple of weeks to check how your gums are responding to the presence of your veneer and to once again examine the veneer’s placement.
See also: Dental Implants for a happy smile
How Long Do Dental Veneers Last?
From our past records and researches, dental veneers last between 7-15 years. After which try are advised to be replaced.
Do Dental Veneers Require Special Care?
Dental veneers do not require any special care. Continue to follow good oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash as you normally would.
Even though porcelain veneers resist stains, your dentist may recommend that you avoid stain-causing foods and beverages (for example, coffee, tea, or red wine).
To acquire your dental veneer, kindly book an appointment here.
