Veneers
WHAT ARE DENTAL VENEERS?
Dental veneers are thin shells of material that cover the front surface of the teeth and can be made out of porcelain, ceramic or composite resin materials. They are either cemented or bonded to the teeth and blend in nicely. Veneers match the shade and color of your surrounding teeth, giving you a natural looking smile.
WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR VENEERS?
Patients that have misshapen, stained, uneven, or chipped teeth are typically good candidates for veneers. In addition, patients that have stains from food, or prescription drugs can also benefit from veneers. Veneers can also be used to close gaps between teeth, helping to create a more even smile.
HOW ARE VENEERS APPLIED?
A thin layer of the enamel is removed on the front surface of a tooth to prepare it for a veneer. Then, molds of your teeth are taken, and are sent out to a lab where the veneers are fabricated. Once the veneers are ready, our team ensure the veneers fit properly. We also check the color to ensure they match and blend well with your natural teeth.
The teeth are thoroughly cleaned to ensure the veneer adheres properly to the tooth's surface. A special cement material is used to place the veneers on the teeth. An ultraviolet light is used to harden and help set the cement quickly. The veneer process takes a few weeks to complete, and patients should expect multiple appointments.
WHAT TYPE OF VENEERS ARE AVAILABLE?
Composite Resin Veneers
Although composite resin veneers can be a good choice for cases that are less complex, they are not typically as strong, nor do they normally last as long, as porcelain or ceramic veneers. Composite resin veneers can be used to help correct chipped teeth, make a tooth appear longer, or even fill in spaces between teeth. They can be a less expensive way to make an improvement to your smile and are usually made in-office by your dentist.
Porcelain and Ceramic Veneers
Porcelain and ceramic veneers differ from resin veneers in strength and esthetics. Porcelain and ceramic veneers are made by a lab using an individualized impression of your teeth. Both porcelain and ceramic veneers are very similar in look, shape and feel, with each type of material having its own pros and cons. For example, true porcelain might be slightly stronger than ceramic, but some ceramics are better for color matching offering more translucency for a more natural look. Depending on your specific needs, your doctor will help you decide what is right for your case. Regardless of what material is chosen, both porcelain and ceramic veneers can be matched to your natural teeth, or even made slightly lighter, to create a beautiful and vibrant smile.
If you are interested in finding out how you may benefit from veneers, contact TriState Family Dental Centers to schedule your consultation.