What Are Dental Veneers And How Do They Work?

What are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite resin that are custom-made to fit over the front surface of teeth. They are used to improve the appearance of teeth that are discolored, chipped, misaligned, or have gaps between them. Veneers are designed to look like natural teeth and are made from a tooth-colored material that match the surrounding teeth for a seamless and natural appearance. They are bonded to the surface of the tooth using a special dental adhesive, and can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. Veneers can be an effective way to improve the appearance of your smile, but it’s important to consider all options and to discuss the pros and cons with your dentist before making a decision.

Types of Veneers

There are two main types of dental veneers: porcelain and composite resin.

1. 1. Porcelain veneers: Porcelain veneers are made from a thin layer of dental ceramic that is custom-made to fit over the front surface of a tooth. They are more durable and stain-resistant than composite veneers, and are generally considered to have a more natural and lifelike appearance. However, porcelain veneers are more expensive and require more preparation of the tooth before they can be placed.

1. 1. Composite resin veneers: Composite resin veneers are made from a composite material which is a mixture of plastic and glass particles that are molded and shaped directly on the tooth. They are less expensive and less invasive than porcelain veneers, and can often be placed in a single office visit. However, composite veneers are not as durable or stain-resistant as porcelain veneers and may need to be replaced more often.

It’s important to discuss the pros and cons of each type of veneer with your dentist, who can help you determine which type is best for your individual needs and goals.

Benefits of Veneers

Dental veneers are a cosmetic treatment that can offer a number of benefits, including:

• • Improved appearance: Veneers can be used to improve the appearance of teeth that are discolored, chipped, misaligned, or have gaps between them. They can also be used to correct minor orthodontic problems and to create a more uniform and attractive smile.

• • Durability: Veneers can last for many years with proper care and maintenance, making them a long-lasting solution for cosmetic dental problems.

• • Stain resistance: Porcelain veneers are highly resistant to staining from foods, drinks, and tobacco, making them a good choice for individuals who want to maintain the bright, white appearance of their teeth.

• • Minimal tooth preparation: In many cases, veneers can be placed with minimal preparation of the underlying tooth, preserving more of the natural tooth structure.

• • Non-invasive: Veneers are a non-invasive cosmetic dentistry option that can improve the appearance of your teeth without the need for extensive or painful dental procedures.

Dental Veneers Process

The dental veneer procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. 1. Initial Consultation: During your initial consultation with your dentist, they will evaluate your teeth and discuss your goals and expectations. They may take teeth x ray, photos, and impressions of your teeth to aid in treatment planning.

1. 1. Impressions: Your dentist will take impressions of your teeth, which will be used to create custom-made veneers that fit your teeth precisely.

1. 1. Preparation: If necessary, your dentist will prepare your teeth by removing a small amount of enamel from the front surface to make room for the veneers. This step is usually only necessary for porcelain veneers.

1. 1. Temporary veneers: If you are having porcelain veneers, your dentist may place temporary veneers over your prepared teeth while the permanent veneers are being made.

1. 1. Bonding: Once the veneers are ready, your dentist will place them over your prepared teeth and bond them in place using a special dental adhesive. They will then shape and polish the veneers to match your natural teeth.

1. 1. Follow-up Appointment: After your veneers are placed, your dentist will schedule a follow-up visit to evaluate the fit and bite of the veneers and to make any necessary adjustments.

The entire process of getting veneers typically takes two to three office visits, although the length of time can vary depending on the type of veneers and the number of teeth being treated. Your dentist will provide detailed instructions for caring for your veneers and will schedule regular check-ups to monitor the health of your teeth and gums.

Who is a Good Candidate for Veneers?

Veneers are a good treatment option for someone who is seeking to improve the appearance of their teeth and has one or more of the following dental issues:

• • Chipped teeth or mildly damaged teeth: Veneers can be used to restore the appearance of teeth that have been chipped or broken.

• • Stained teeth/discolored teeth: Veneers can be used to improve the appearance of teeth that are stained or discolored, either as a result of genetics, aging, or lifestyle factors such as drinking coffee or smoking.

• • Small gaps between teeth: Veneers can be used to close gaps between teeth and create a more uniform and attractive smile.

• • Mildly misshapen teeth or misaligned teeth: Veneers can be used to correct minor orthodontic problems and improve the shape and alignment of teeth.

You may NOT be a good candidate for veneers if:

• • your teeth are badly broken or chipped down to the root

• • you don’t have overall good oral health

• • you don’t have strong enough natural tooth enamel

• • you have tooth decay

• • you have badly crooked teeth and need orthodontic care

It’s important to keep in mind that veneers are not suitable for everyone, and that there are also potential drawbacks to consider. Your dentist can help you determine whether veneers are the right choice for you based on your individual needs and goals.

Visit Eberhart Dentistry For Custom Veneers in Akron, OH

Eberhart Dentistry in Akron, OH offers custom veneers crafted with precision for an enhanced and natural-looking smile. Our experienced staff at Eberhart Dentistry are committed to providing high-quality personalized care for every patient and offering a variety of treatment solutions, from preventive services to cosmetic dental procedures.

With the latest technology and modern cosmetic dentistry techniques, we can craft beautiful veneers that will last you a lifetime. Schedule your dental visit today to learn more about how we can help you get the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted.