Improving your smile with the help of cosmetic dentistry is a popular choice these days. From teeth whitening and bonding to enamel sharpening and braces, there are many techniques for achieving this goal. Veneers are another preferred method of correcting imperfections of natural teeth. Veneers are custom-made shells used to cover teeth, altering their color and shape.
What do veneers fix?
Patients who request veneers often have one or more of the following problems:
- Broken, chipped, or worn teeth
- Misaligned or uneven teeth
- Gaps or spaces between teeth
- Stained or discolored teeth
What are veneers made of?
Veneers are also called dental porcelain laminates because they are most often made from porcelain. They can also be formed from plastics, which are resin composite materials. Of the two, porcelain veneers are more stain-resistant and have the luster of natural teeth.
How are veneers applied?
There are three steps to getting veneers: consultation, planning, and application. During a consultation, your dentist will make a diagnosis after examining your teeth. During this initial visit, it is customary for the dental staff to x-ray your teeth. During planning, your dentist prepares for veneer application by removing enamel from the tooth surface. Then, he or she will make an impression of your tooth for a model to be created. Using the model, the laboratory will make your veneers. After about two weeks, you will come back to the dental office for the veneer bonding or application step. While your dentist bonds the veneer to your tooth using cement, he or she will evaluate your bite and make any necessary adjustments.
What are benefits of veneers?
Veneers have many advantages for the patient, wanting a new look and feel. Some of their key benefits are:
- They give a natural appearance.
- They are a quality, aesthetic alternative.
- They resist discoloration.
- They do not irritate the gums.
If you are interested in veneers, be advised that they are not generally covered by insurance, and the cost can range from $500 to $1300. Lasting up to ten years, veneers do not require any special care for use.
