Cosmetic dental care will stop you from being embarrassed by the appearance of your teeth. Whatever the issue, your dentist can give you options to improve it. Veneers are a great choice to deal with discolored teeth, no matter how severe the discoloration. Veneers can also be used to repair chipped, cracked, or otherwise damaged teeth.
What are dental veneers?
Dental veneers are wafer-thin pieces of porcelain specially shaped and sized to cover the front surface of teeth. Basically, they are specially-made shells that are bonded to teeth to improve their appearance. Veneers can be used to change the color or to restore the look of teeth that are worn down, chipped, broken, or irregularly shaped; and close the gaps between widely-spaced teeth.
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How do veneers strengthen weakened teeth?
Because veneers are bonded to natural teeth, they add a new and whole layer that is also sturdier than tooth enamel.
What should I expect if I decide to get veneers to improve the look of my teeth?
The first step in getting veneers is a consultation with a dentist that is experienced in cosmetic dental care. If you have not had your teeth x-rayed in a while, assume a dental x-ray will be part of your initial visit. If you and your dentist decide veneers are the best choice for you, you can expect two more dentist visits to prepare your teeth and the veneers, then apply them. For typical veneers, your dentist will have to remove a very thin layer of enamel from the front surface of the teeth, about ½ a millimeter; this sometimes requires a local anesthetic. A model or mold will be made of the reshaped teeth and sent to the dental laboratory where your veneers will be made. In one to two weeks, your veneers will be ready for your dentist to bond. Before they are bonded, your dentist will check the veneers for fit and color and will then prepare the surface of your teeth by cleaning, polishing and etching them so the veneers can bond well. The veneer will be attached with a permanent cement, which will be quickly dried and cured with a special light.
Will veneers look like natural teeth?
Yes! Veneers are specially made to look like the surface of natural teeth. Porcelain veneers in particular mimic the light-reflecting properties of natural teeth.Your teeth will look as good as your natural teeth did before they were damaged, or better. If you are having just one veneer cemented, or if natural teeth will be visible next to multiple veneers, people will only notice your beautiful smile.
Do veneers require special oral care?
No, but it is important to always remember proper oral care and dental hygiene. After your veneers are applied, continue your daily routine of brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing every day. If you are not yet following this routine, paired with regular visits to your dentist, begin now. With the same good care you give your natural teeth, your veneers will last at least five to ten years before you will need to have your cosmetic dental care dentist replace them.
- Learn more about other Cosmetic Dental Care Options
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