You’ve seen celebrities with stunning white smiles and perfect teeth, but no matter how many white strips or professional whitening treatments you try and how often you brush, it can be hard to emulate that pearly glow. It’s not your fault because they have a secret! Sometimes life gets in the way of having the brightest smile possible due to what we eat and drink. Smoking can stain the teeth too, and smoking stains can be nearly impossible to remove no matter how hard you try. Worse yet, if you continue to smoke, you’ll likely undo all the improvements you made with whitening or brushing.
There are permanent solutions to stained and discolored teeth for those with less-than-stellar smiles. In fact, one solution, veneers, can even mask minor chips and cracks in the teeth, as well as uneven teeth! But many people don’t know much about veneers and don’t understand how these impactful dental wonders work.
If you’re curious about whether dental veneers are right for you, here are some frequently asked questions and answers – including some you may not have considered!
Maybe you’ve heard of dental veneers before but aren’t sure what they are. Veneers are dental restorations made of either a thin sheet of porcelain or a dental composite similar to the composite used in crowns and fillings. There are three types of porcelain veneers: Emax, Feldspathic and Zirconia.
Dental veneers fit over the teeth and create a natural-looking, whiter tooth. They are usually applied to the visible surfaces of the teeth to mask discoloration and minor damage.
Dental veneers fit comfortably over your existing teeth. They are custom shaped and sized to fit each tooth, making them look natural in your mouth.
Dental veneers are usually applied by removing a thin layer of enamel from the existing tooth, attaching the veneer over the tooth and securing it into place.
Another common question we get is how long the veneer process takes. Though it varies from person to person, it takes about two to three weeks from your first appointment to your veneer installation.
At your first appointment, you will have a mold made of your teeth, and we will be able to show you what your new smile will look like.
Typically at the second appointment, you will get your veneers attached. Having all your veneers attached to your teeth takes about two hours, and you can head home after your procedure with a beautiful new smile!
You are in control when it comes to the color and shade of your veneers. Our dentists will find a color that best suits your skin tone and aesthetic without making your teeth look “too white” or artificial. Veneers can also be shaped to fit your teeth so they don’t look fake, and nobody will know you have veneers!
Another big question we get is, “Will my veneers hurt?” While installing your veneers should be painless, your teeth and gums may be sensitive for a few days or weeks following the procedure. This is normal and temporary, and most people report only minor discomfort.
Dental veneers are a big investment, so naturally you’ll want them to last as long as possible. Thankfully, your veneers can last up to 20 years with proper care. Veneers are durable and should not chip, crack or fall off with proper care.
Another common question people have is, “What if I don’t like my veneers? Can they be removed?” The answer is yes! If you are unhappy with the look or feel of your veneers, they can be removed gently and painlessly with a laser. That being said, once this has been done, you will likely want to replace them with something that better suits your aesthetic.
If you are unhappy with your veneers, please consult our office for replacement options.
Finally, many people are concerned about the care of their veneers. Thankfully, caring for your veneers is the same as caring for your natural teeth. Though veneers won’t stain like natural teeth, it is essential to brush them twice a day and floss them at least once daily to maintain the health of your teeth and keep your veneers looking as bright and shiny as the day you got them!
To learn more about veneers, please contact our office today!