Dental veneers are a category of cosmetic dentistry for those seeking a beautifully shaped white smile. Dental veneers are custom-made shells of tooth-like material made from porcelain or resin composite. Veneers are bonded to the front of the tooth to improve appearance such as improving discolored teeth, uneven alignment or spacing and chips or cracks. In deciding whether dental veneers are right for you, there are many questions you should consider beforehand.
What Are Dental Veneers Used For?
Dental veneers are used to cover up an imperfect dental appearance, so those seeking a perfect, bright white smile may benefit. Veneers often are used to correct discolored teeth, which can occur from root canal procedures, food and drink stains, excessive fluoride or the presence of large resin fillings. Veneers also are used to cover teeth worn down from tooth grinding, chipped or broken teeth, unaligned, uneven, or irregularly shaped teeth, and to close gaps between teeth.
How Much Do Veneers Cost?
Prices fluctuate from each dental practice, ranging from $500 to $1300 per tooth. Dental insurance usually does not cover dental veneers, so cost should be discussed up front with .
Should I Get Porcelain Veneers or Composite Resin Veneers?
are made from porcelain or composite resin. The advantage of porcelain veneers is that they resist stains better than composite resin veneers and better mimic the reflecting properties of natural teeth. However, porcelain veneers have a greater risk of cracking than composite resin, which is a harder material. Composite resin veneers require less shaving of the tooth surface before placement, however, and so are a better option for those with sensitive teeth.
How Long Do Dental Veneers Last?
Dental veneers last between 5 and 10 years, after which they need to be replaced.
Care for Dental Veneers
Dental veneers should be taken care of as if they are your natural teeth. Thus, continue brushing twice a day and flossing as normal. Although porcelain veneers resist stains, your dentist may advise caution on stain-causing foods and beverages like red wine, coffee and tea.
What Is the Procedure for Getting Dental Veneers?
Before the procedure begins, your dentist will decide if local anesthesia is needed. The procedure then begins with your dentist shaving off 1/2 mm of the tooth's enamel, which is about equivalent to the thickness of the veneer that will be placed on the tooth's surface. Next, an impression is taken of your tooth and is sent to the dental laboratory that makes the veneer. This can take about 1 to 2 weeks.
Finally, the dental veneer is permanently bonded to the tooth using cement. The cement shade determines the color of the veneer. Once the veneer is bonded onto the surface, the tooth is cleaned, polished and etched to make for a stronger bonding surface. A special light beam is then shined on the dental veneer to activate the hardening chemicals in the cement. To end, excess cement is removed and an evaluation of your bite is taken to determine any needed veneer adjustments.
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