If you have stained, crooked, or damaged teeth, veneers are a great solution to get that bright smile you’ve always wanted!
Most of us have heard of veneers, but how exactly do they work? If you’re interested in what veneers can do for you, book an appointment with your dentist to discuss your options. In the meantime, keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the different types of veneers, their benefits, and what the typical veneers process includes.
What Are Veneers?
Simply put, veneers are “shells” that are permanently attached to the front surface of one or more teeth to improve their appearance. Veneers are typically made from porcelain or resin-composite materials and are tooth-coloured to seamlessly blend in with the rest of the surrounding teeth.
Depending on your needs and preferences, you can get individual veneers to cover imperfections, or you can opt to have one placed on each tooth.
Are There Different Types of Veneers?
There are two main types of veneers: porcelain veneers and composite veneers. Each type has their pros and cons and your dentist can help you decide which type is best for you.
No matter which type of veneer you choose, each is designed to improve your smile. All veneers are stain-resistant and durable, so you can achieve a natural looking smile that can withstand the natural wear and tear your teeth are bound to go through.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are the most popular types of veneers and best for people who want to make small, natural changes to their smile. They are often a great choice because they have a natural appearance, are durable, and are able to blend in with the rest of your natural teeth.
Composite Veneers
Composite veneers are a cost-effective alternative to other types of veneers. They can usually be placed in just one treatment, but they’re also more likely to stain, break, or chip, meaning they often have to be replaced after 5 years.
Why Do People Get Veneers?
Many people get veneers to solve a variety of problems. Veneers are typically used to treat the following:
- Teeth that are discoloured due to treatments, medications, or stains
- Teeth that are worn down
- Teeth that are broken, damaged, or chipped
- Teeth that are misaligned, uneven, or irregularly shaped
- Teeth with unwanted gaps between them
Benefits of Veneers
Veneers offer a wide variety of benefits, including:
- They are a great solution for a number of aesthetic issues
- They can be matched to your natural tooth colour to provide a natural appearance
- They are highly durable and stain resistant, lasting up to 15 years depending on the type
- You can use lighter coloured veneers to make dark teeth appear whiter
- They can be more time-effective compared to crowns with similar benefits
The Veneers Process
The veneers process is slightly different depending on which type of veneer you and your dentist decide is best for you.
The Porcelain Veneers Process
When you get porcelain veneers, your dentist will begin by grinding down your teeth. Then, they will take an impression of your teeth to create a mould for the veneers to be made. While you’re waiting for the veneers to be made, your dentist will place temporary veneers on your teeth.
Once the permanent veneers are made, your dentist can place it on your teeth and cement them in place.
In some cases, dentists can use computer technology to design the veneer in their office to avoid waiting for the permanent veneers to be made.
Composite Veneers
If you choose composite veneers, your dentist will begin the process by etching the surface of your teeth. Then they will apply thin layers of the composite veneer material to your teeth until the desired look is achieved.
Once the composite material has been applied, your dentist will cure, or harden, the veneers with a light.
How Do I Know Which Type of Veneer is Right for Me?
The best way to tell which type of veneer is right for you is by discussing your options with your dentist. There are several factors that your dentist will go over with you that can impact this decision, including:
- Your budget
- Your desired look
- How long you want your veneers to last
After knowing this information, your dentist can recommend the type of veneer they think would be best.
We Can Help
At West 85th Dental, our team has the expertise and knowledge to help you. We offer a range of cosmetic dental services, including veneers.If you ever have any questions about how we can help you achieve a brighter and whiter smile, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team is always here to help answer any questions or discuss any concerns you may have.
