Dental veneers, also called porcelain veneers and dental porcelain laminates, are crafted from thin pieces of dental porcelain. Dentists custom-make them for each individual patient. They are a popular option for patients who desire to hide different types of dental imperfections, such as crooked, stained, or chipped teeth.
Dentists use a special bonding material to bond them to the underlying teeth. Since they are custom-made, they look natural.
What Can Dental Veneers Do?
Dental veneers can:
- Completely cover imperfections in your smile, such as chips, stains, cracks, gaps, or misshapen teeth
- Change the appearance, including the color, shape, size, or length of teeth
- Enhance the look and strength of your smile
Being custom-made, dental veneers should feel natural in your mouth. They don't need special care and should look and feel just like regular teeth.
Dental veneers aren't a permanent option for addressing problems in teeth. They won't last a lifetime, but with proper care and regular dental checkups, they might last between 10 and 20 years. For a cosmetic dentistry option, this is quite some time, making dental veneers a popular choice for covering up smile imperfections.
Getting a Dental Veneer
Here is the process for getting a dental veneer:
- Your dentist prepares the tooth's surface for the veneer
- The customized veneer is affixed to the tooth surface with dental cement, which is cured with a special type of light
Veneers should feel completely natural in your mouth. They shouldn't feel different or noticeable when talking, eating, or doing anything with your teeth. If you have temporary veneers, they should only be worn for seven to ten days at most until your dentist places permanent veneers.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Veneers
Can Dental Veneers Stain?
Yes, unfortunately, dental veneers can stain. These are called extrinsic stains, which means that any stains are only on the exterior of the veneer. Common reasons for extrinsic stains are consuming certain foods and drinks and smoking. However, dentists can clean veneers, making them look brand new once again.
Are Dental Veneers Easy to Take Care Of?
Taking care of dental veneers is simple and easy. The porcelain shells of veneers are strong, so all you have to do is take proper care of your teeth, and your veneers will be properly cared for. Proper oral care includes brushing the teeth a minimum of twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste, as well as flossing the teeth at least once a day to remove any food particles or debris that may be stuck in between the teeth.
Learn More About Dental Veneers at Belmont Family Dentistry
At Belmont Family Dentistry, we understand how dental veneers can change your life for the better. If you are ready to enhance your smile and not be afraid to laugh or show your pearly whites, we are here for you.
Find out if you are a good candidate for dental veneers and learn more about the process — contact us today at 617-484-1760. Or request an appointment online.