What Are Veneers And Why You Need Them

Nothing gives a better first impression than a beautiful smile. You might be attempted to have some minor adjustment done to enhance your shiny smile even more. Before you decide on any major procedures, consider veneers if you are trying to fix the following issues:

  • Chips, cracks, broken tooth
  • Spaces or gaps between teeth
  • Minor misaligned or uneven teeth
  • Discolored or stained teeth

What are Veneers?
Veneers are a quicker and more affordable way to a better smile compare to, say, a crown. It is a big decision, however, since veneers are a permanent treatment. Veneers are pieces of ceramic material called porcelain that will be attached to your teeth much like acrylic nails are bonded to the fingernails. It can be used for correcting minor imperfection like stained or broken tooth. It’s irreversible because the enamel removed during the procedure cannot be recovered. Veneers are designed to fit the contour of your teeth with customized color, size and shape, providing the most natural look.

What’s the Procedure?
The procedure is mostly painless. First, a small portion of the enamel on your teeth is removed to prepare the surface for attachment. Second, an impression of your teeth will be taken and sent to a dental lab where a dental technician will customize the veneers for each tooth. During your second visit, your dentist will examine if the veneers fit your teeth and if the color blends in well the rest of your teeth. Afterwards the veneer will be glued onto the tooth. The entire process typically takes at least two visits.

How Do Veneers Feel?
Veneers feel just like your natural teeth and you can eat whatever you want. However, be careful when biting down on hard or chewy foods. It’s also advisable to reduce pigmented foods drinks like berries and coffee. Keep in mind you that do need to brush and floss just as you would with your regular teeth.

Ask Your Dentist
Veneers are not a good choice for individuals with unhealthy teeth. For instance, those who have cavities or active periodontal (gum) disease or who have an insufficient amount of existing enamel on the tooth surface. People who grind their teeth are also poor candidates for porcelain veneers, as such behavior can cause damage to the veneers.