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What Are Dental Veneers?
A dental veneer is a wafer-thin shell of tooth-colored material that fits over the outside of a tooth. Veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry option because they are less intrusive than dental crowns and provide quicker results than braces or aligners. They can brighten and correct discolored teeth, straighten a smile, close gaps, fix misshapen teeth, and repair fractures and chips. Veneers are also durable and stain-resistant, especially porcelain veneers.
Porcelain is the most commonly used material for veneers. Composite resin is also used for same-day veneers, though it is weaker and more prone to staining than porcelain. With proper care, composite resin veneers last about 4-8 years, while porcelain veneers can last 10-25 years.
Placing Porcelain Veneers
Placing porcelain veneers typically involves two appointments. Local anesthesia is usually not needed, but it can be used based on patient sensitivity.
During the first visit, your dentist will examine your teeth to ensure that dental veneers are suitable for you. You and your dentist will discuss the desired outcome. Your dentist will then remove a very thin layer of tooth enamel from the tooth's surface, about ½ millimeter, and take an impression of your teeth. This impression is sent to the dental laboratory to create your custom veneers, a process that usually takes 1-2 weeks. Meanwhile, the dentist will place a temporary veneer on your tooth.
Once the laboratory delivers the completed porcelain veneer, you can go for your second and final visit. During this visit, your dentist will remove the temporary veneer and check the permanent one for fit and color, trimming and adjusting as necessary. Your tooth and the veneer will be cleaned, polished, and etched to ensure a strong bond. The dentist will apply a special adhesive to the veneer, place it on the tooth, and use a special light to cure and harden the veneer quickly. The final steps involve removing any excess material, evaluating your bite, and making any final adjustments if necessary.
Caring For Your Veneers
Caring for your veneers is simple—just brush and floss daily as usual! Some patients may experience mild sensitivity to hot and cold, but this is usually temporary and should resolve itself in a few weeks as your tooth adjusts. Your dentist may advise you to reduce the consumption of foods and drinks that can stain or discolor your veneers, such as coffee or red wine.
Patients should also avoid habits like biting or chewing on hard objects (like nails, pens, or ice) and tooth grinding or jaw clenching, as these can cause veneers to crack, chip, or dislodge. It's important to note that getting veneers is an irreversible process, as a small amount of tooth enamel must be removed to fit the veneer properly. However, for many people, the natural-looking results of a beautiful, even smile are well worth it!