There may be things that you want to change about your smile, like the shape, colour, or spacing of your teeth. At Wing Dental Center, our team offers several cosmetic dentistry options to help you feel more comfortable with your smile’s appearance. One popular solution is dental veneers.
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of your teeth to improve their appearance. Veneers are crafted from tooth-coloured materials and can change the colour, shape, size, or length of teeth, creating a more uniform look.
The Purpose & Types of Veneers
Veneers serve a cosmetic purpose by improving the look of your smile. They can address a range of issues, from chips and cracks to discolouration. You can also use them to close small gaps between teeth or make slightly crooked teeth appear straight.
Veneers are typically made from one of two materials—porcelain or composite resin. Porcelain veneers have a light-reflecting quality that looks very similar to natural tooth enamel. Composite resin veneers are applied in layers directly to the tooth, offering a different approach to achieve a similar cosmetic result.
The Veneer Placement Process
Your Initial Consultation
Your journey starts with a conversation about your goals for your smile. Then, your dental professional can examine your teeth to determine if veneers are a suitable option for your oral health needs.
Based on this discussion and examination, our team can develop a plan for your veneers. This is your opportunity to ask questions and understand each step of the process, from preparation to the final placement.
Tooth Preparation & Final Fit
To prepare a tooth for a veneer, a very thin layer of enamel—usually less than a millimetre—is gently removed from the tooth surface. This step creates space for the veneer to fit seamlessly with your other teeth, so it does not look or feel bulky.
After the tooth is prepared, an impression is taken. This mould is used to create your custom veneer so that it fits your tooth precisely. Once your permanent veneer is ready, it’s carefully bonded to your tooth, then the fit is checked to ensure it looks and feels natural.
How Long Veneers Last & How to Care for Them
The lifespan of your veneers depends on the material they’re made from and how well you care for them. With proper hygiene and regular check-ups, they can last for many years.
You can care for veneers the same way you care for your natural teeth. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and avoiding habits like chewing on hard objects. Regular visits to your dentist in Peace River, AB help keep both your veneers and the teeth underneath them healthy.
What Happens to the Teeth Under Your Veneers
A veneer covers the front of your tooth, but the rest of your natural tooth structure remains underneath. This means the tooth is still alive and functions normally.
It’s important to remember that the tooth under the veneer can still develop a cavity. Good oral hygiene is key to preventing decay around the edges of the veneer and protecting the health of the underlying tooth.
Key Considerations & Potential Downsides
Choosing to get veneers is a permanent decision, because a small amount of tooth enamel is removed to place them. This means the procedure isn’t reversible.
Some people experience temporary tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures after their veneers are placed. This feeling typically subsides within a few days or weeks. The cost of veneers also varies depending on the number of teeth involved and the material you choose.
Other Options to Improve Your Smile
If you’re exploring ways to enhance your smile, veneers are just one of several options. Your dental team can discuss alternatives that may better suit your specific needs.
- Dental Bonding: This procedure uses a tooth-coloured composite resin to repair chips, cracks, and small gaps. It’s a less-invasive option that can often be completed in a single visit.
- Teeth Whitening: For teeth that are stained or discoloured, professional teeth whitening can brighten your smile. It is an effective way to lift stains caused by food, drinks, or age.
- Crowns: A dental crown covers the entire tooth rather than just the front surface. Crowns are often used when a tooth has significant damage or decay that a veneer can’t address.
Veneers can be a great way to change the look of your smile by addressing cosmetic concerns with a durable solution. Understanding the process and how to care for them can help you make an informed choice for your dental health.
If you have more questions about veneers or other cosmetic options, our team at Wing Dental Center is here to help you explore your choices. Schedule a consultation to discuss your personal smile goals.
