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To Veneer or Not to Veneer

July 22, 2022


Everyone wants a beautiful smile that they can show to the world. Many people opt for the cosmetic dental procedure that perfects their smile called “veneers.” Porcelain veneers can enhance the appearance of your smile and boost your confidence. Keep reading to find out the benefits and drawbacks of veneers:   

What Are Veneers?   

Veneers are made of ceramic porcelain that is placed over the existing tooth to create the appearance of the “perfect” smile. Veneers are custom-made for each individual’s smile and vary by size, shape, and color. They can also be an alternative to dental crowns and are not as invasive of a procedure.   

So long as you have healthy gums and a good bone structure, you are a candidate for veneers. Veneers are ideal for anyone with chipped teeth, stained teeth, old restorations or fillings, gap teeth, and damage from grinding teeth. Unless your teeth are too worn down or crowded, you should be able to get veneers.   

If you have gap teeth, you will most likely need orthodontal work to close the gap. You will also need orthodontal work or teeth pulled if your teeth are too crowded. Veneers are not meant to cover up dental problems in the hopes they’ll go away. It’s advised to have all dental work (like cavities) you need to be done before you get veneers. You don’t want to have a root canal after spending thousands of dollars on your new pearly whites.   

The Process of Getting Veneers  

After deciding on veneers, the process will likely only take a few visits post-dental work. Before you get veneers on your teeth, you should have any needed dental work done.  

On the initial visit, the prosthodontist (cosmetic dentist) will file down some of your tooth enamel and take a mold of your teeth. This mold will be used to make your new “permanent” veneers.   

The dentist will make a temporary restoration of your teeth while they craft your porcelain veneers. When the porcelain veneers are finished, they will remove the temporary restoration to apply bonding cement on the surface of your teeth. The prosthodontist will adhere your veneers to your teeth, and you’ll have a brand-new smile!   

Aftercare  

Your teeth and gums may be sensitive or sore for a few days. This is normal, so you don’t need to worry. Your veneers will need just the same care your regular teeth did. Keep up good oral hygiene to keep your teeth and gums happy and healthy. You should still go to the dentist twice a year for regular dental cleaning.   

Make sure you take good care of your porcelain veneers! They are an investment, and if you want them to last as long as possible, you’ll brush your teeth and floss regularly. Permanent veneers can last up to 20 years if they’re well cared for!   

If you’re interested in getting porcelain veneers or have any questions about porcelain veneers, feel free to contact Sinquefield Family Dentistry today!