Do you have stained, chipped, cracked, or misshaped teeth? These are some of the dental imperfections that veneers can fix so you can have the smile you have always wanted! Veneers are thin sheaths of dental-grade porcelain that are placed over the front-facing surfaces of your teeth. They are completely natural looking and can transform your pearly whites. Read to learn five things you should know before getting a smile makeover with veneers.
#1. Veneers Can Fix One Tooth or Your Entire Smile
Veneers are very versatile and can address a range of problems. Whether you are unhappy with one tooth or would like a whole new arch of pearly whites, veneers can do it all! They can correct various dental issues, such as:
- Staining
- Change the length of your tooth
- Fix cosmetic issues like dents, chips, or cracks
- Fill gaps in your smile
#2. Veneers Can Give You a New Smile in Two Visits
Many dental treatments and procedures can take several months to bring about the desired changes. For example, it can take 12 or more months to straighten teeth with traditional braces. While your veneers will need to be designed and your natural teeth prepared, you still can expect a renewed smile in two appointments!
#3. Veneers Require a Bit of Preparation
As discussed above, veneers don’t require a significant amount of your time, but your natural teeth will need some preparation. For perfect placement of your veneers, a small amount of tooth enamel will be removed from your teeth. And it truly is a tiny amount–only about half a millimeter! That’s thinner than your fingernail. You will also likely wear temporary veneers while your permanent ones are being designed. During your consultation, you can ask your dentist exactly what the process for your treatment will look like.
#4. Veneers Cannot Replace Missing Teeth
Veneers are essentially a “cover” for your natural teeth by cementing ultra-thin sheaths of dental-grade porcelain to the front-facing portions of existing teeth. Since they need something to adhere and bond to, they are not a good option if you have dental gaps. If you need to replace a missing tooth, dental bridges or implants would be a better option to complete your smile.
#5. Veneers Are a Permanent Smile Solution
Once you receive your new smile, it is now permanent. As mentioned above, your dentist will have to prepare your teeth by removing a slim layer of enamel, which is irreversible. Unlike your hair and nails, teeth enamel never grows back. Therefore, your pearly whites will always need to be covered after the veneer procedure.
About the Author
At Costello & DeHart Dental Excellence, our dentists Dr. Ernie Costello and Dr. Jay DeHart are eager to help you get the smile of your dreams! We offer a range of services, including cosmetic treatments like veneers. With a 5-star rating on Google, we use customized plans and advanced technology to meet your dental goals. To schedule a consultation, contact us through our website or call (847) 259-1111.