What to Expect Before Getting Dental Veneers
Several dental solutions and cosmetic procedures for the teeth have been discovered over the years, helping people to achieve that bright smile they are aiming for. One of them would be the application of dental veneers, which has shown an immense growth in popularity, particularly for those patients that are looking for ways to improve the appearance of their teeth. It is one of the treatment options to consider, addressing issues such as blemishes, gaps, discolorations, and the like. Going through this dental procedure has been proven to be effective, not just for temporarily covering up the dental problems you have, but for providing long-time changes to your teeth.
Dental veneers are structured as thin shell-like layers made out of porcelain materials. They are placed in the front part of the teeth that have been damaged or stained. They can also be used to disguise teeth that are excessively short or pushed back. This, then, results in a more equal arch. Dental veneers usually only require a tiny bit of tooth enamel removal to ensure that they are securely attached to your teeth. Your treated tooth will appear to have the same shade and shape as the rest of your teeth since they match the shade and shape of your other teeth.
The entire process of the application of dental veneers starts by making an appointment with your cosmetic dentist. They will determine whether this solution is right for you. Also, if your dental issue can be managed with this type of treatment. Dental veneers typically take two to three visits from start to finish. Your dentist will check your teeth at your first visit to make sure you are a good candidate for veneers. You will have the chance to discuss why you want to receive treatment and what you hope to gain from it with your dentist.
A veneer can be applied to almost everyone who has a minor cosmetic dentistry problem. If you have gum disease, tooth decay, or poor oral health in general, your dentist may advise you to wait or refer you for another procedure. It is considerably more probable that veneers will work for you if those issues are addressed first.
If you want to change the way you look, dental veneers can be of great help. They can be used to conceal a number of flaws and give you the smile you have always wanted. They can also be used to correct mildly crooked or gapped teeth. And before actually opting to get dental veneers applied to your teeth, you have to consider a few things to expect. Especially if you have no idea how the treatment procedure will work. You have to know that you will go through a series of multiple processes for this; that dental veneers are not removable; that they can chip, crack, or break especially if not properly maintained; and that they are not the probable solution for everyone.
Dental Veneers are a Multi-Step Process
First things first. You have to know that the application of dental veneers requires you to go through a multi-step process. This is done by having your dentist check your teeth, conducting oral exams and taking several x-rays, as well as impressions of your teeth. After this, they will decide if you are a candidate for veneers. Veneers are not always the best or even the only option for getting that bright smile you want. For this reason, this means that this dental solution is not typically a same-day dental treatment.
The veneer procedure officially begins when your dentist starts prepping your tooth. Your dentist will have to remove a little bit of enamel from the front of any tooth being treated to make room for the veneer to fit. By removing a small amount of dental enamel also leads your treated tooth to not protrude any further than the others. Then, in order to create your permanent veneers, an impression will be taken and sent to the lab. They will be ready in about a week and a half. But you will be able to wear temporary veneers in the meanwhile. Your dentist will bind your permanent veneers to your teeth once they are finished being structured.
Dental Veneers are Not Movable
Dental veneers are permanently attached to the teeth and can only be removed by a dentist. These veneers have a usual lifespan of 15 to 20 years, but they can survive even longer.
Actually, in the process of applying these veneers to your teeth, the dentist uses dental cement to secure the dental veneers in place. This makes it easier for the veneers to stay in place. This also tends to be advantageous since the dentist will need to remove a small amount of the patient’s tooth enamel before applying the dental veneers. After that, the veneers will act as a protective coating for the teeth.
Dental Veneers can Chip, Crack, or Break
Veneers are similar to teeth in terms of their appearance. And since they are prone to chipping and cracking, users should exercise caution when wearing them. Though they can withstand normal wear and tear, there are several things that are needed to keep in mind.
One of the things that need to be considered would be that grinding your teeth and biting down on hard objects can cause veneers to shatter. Prior to receiving veneers, people should address any teeth grinding difficulties and avoid eating hard foods. And though the veneers are designed to be extremely strong, this does not mean that they are unbreakable. Those with dental veneers should avoid chewing on their fingernails, biting on ice, and opening packages with their teeth. And before receiving dental veneers, patients who grind their teeth at night may consider acquiring a night guard or otherwise addressing the problem.
Dental Veneers are Not for Everyone
Given that dental veneers are growing immensely popular to be the dental solution for certain oral issues, it does not mean that you can have them applied to your teeth whenever you want to. Dentists tend to examine their patients first, before actually approving them for veneers. Some people may be unable to obtain veneers because of oral infections or tooth decay. These issues can be detected through dental checkups. However, those who are unable to have veneers may be suitable candidates for another cosmetic procedure.
Key Takeaway
Now that you have had a grasp of what to expect before getting dental veneers, you can be able to determine by yourself if they are actually the right choice of dental solutions for you. Overall, dental veneers are a great cosmetic dentistry option to consider. Particularly if you decide to have an improved smile and better function. Also, as it can fix a wide variety of cosmetic issues related to your teeth. And before getting them, it is best to talk to your dentist for an evaluation. Then, the evaluation will determine the best course of action — whether a dental veneer application, or another cosmetic dentistry procedure.
