Cosmetic dentistry can seem like a godsend for plenty of patients. With years of advancement, it is possible to have a completely new-looking smile with minimal invasiveness and lasting results.
The trick? Veneers!
A dental veneer is basically a thin layer of porcelain or composite resin that covers the front and edge of the tooth. Veneers are much like false fingernails in shape and can be used either for physical or aesthetic purposes. By modifying tooth shape/size and whitening it, veneers can be simply used to have a more beautiful smile.
Regardless of your purpose for having dental veneers, there are some important things you should know before getting veneers, which we are going to explore in this article.
With a more comprehensive understanding of veneers and the cosmetic procedure involving their placement, you will be able to make a wise decision about having a dental veneer procedure.
1. Veneers Aren’t Painful
With regards to the removal of enamel and trimming the tooth, you may be curious to know about any probable pain during the procedure. In fact, like any other dental treatment, your dentist will use a local anesthetic before removing the enamel. In some cases, even laughing gas, or nitrous oxide, which is a safe and effective sedative, can be used for further numbness. Therefore, you will not feel any pain during the process.
In order to apply the veneers, a microscopic piece of the tooth is usually removed. In addition, your gum should be altered around the tooth that has undergone the procedure.
Consequently, for a few days or weeks, you will feel slight gum sensitivity and pain. However, the pain is not severe, and you can cope with it by taking over-the-counter pain killers like Tylenol or Advil. After a few days, the pain will subside.
2. Veneers are Irreversible
In dental veneers procedure, your dentist will remove a small portion of the enamel, and sometimes it is even necessary to trim the tooth and change its natural shape. Consequently, veneers cannot be removed without a proper replacement.
3. Veneers Are NOT for Everyone
Due to the fact that only a small portion of the tooth is usually removed during dental veneer placement and it is basically bonded or glued to your natural tooth, it is regarded as one of the least invasive cosmetic procedures. But there are some habits and diseases that will limit getting veneers.
For instance, clenching and grinding the teeth might result in cracked veneers. For this reason, dental veneers for people with these habits will not be a good idea.
Furthermore, there are some gum-related diseases and infections which can interfere with veneers and the gum’s recovery after applying them. Keep these considerations in mind and make sure to consult your dentist to discuss these issues. He/she may suggest a more proper alternative for veneers based on your specific circumstances.
4. You’ll Need to Start with Temporary Veneers
During veneers placement, customizations are made in order to meet the needs of the patient. For this purpose, your dentist will design temporary veneers that will be attached to your tooth with a temporary bonding cement.
You will have these temporary veneers for a few weeks to “test-run” their effectiveness. During this time period, you can check if there is anything wrong with your veneers or how your smile looks. With this new perception, you will consult with your dentist and the final, permanent veneers will be modified to match your preferences.
5. Veneers Don’t Last Forever
Dental veneers are extremely durable. In most cases, it will take between 15-25 years until they get cracked or broken. However, veneers will not last for a lifetime and after this time period, they should be replaced with new ones.
To prolong their durability, avoid chewing hard foods, such as nuts and candy, with your front teeth. Certain foods and drinks can also damage veneers; among them are ketchup, cola, tea, and toasted or crusty bread.
After getting veneers, pay more attention to your oral hygiene; brush your teeth twice a day, and use dental floss.
Get Your New Smile Today
Getting veneers is a phenomenal option for those who want to have a beautiful white smile. If you are thinking about your next steps, give us a call today to book your consultation.
Our experts will walk you through everything you need to know about veneers and whether they are the right option for you. Don’t wait for your chance to get glistening teeth.