Many individuals have questions about veneers. Here are some answers.
Many people have heard about veneers and wonder if this is the answer for them. These dental devices are very thin shells which cover problematic teeth in order to enhance their appearance. Other names for these items are porcelain laminates or porcelain veneers.
The tooth coverings are made with a material very similar in appearance to enamel. They are designed to blend in with a person’s natural smile yet make the teeth appear different shapes,
sizes or hues. They can be crafted from porcelain, hence the name, or from composites consisting of resin. Porcelain is an especially durable product, one that has been used to make sinks, bathtubs and tile. It resists stains and looks very natural. Individuals typically have lots of questions about these products. Here are some answers.
- What can these shells cover up? An array of unsightly dental problems can be covered up including discolored or spotty enamel, gaps, chips, indentations, jagged edges and irregular alignment.
- How many appointments will it take to complete the process? It will take approximately three appointments to complete this process although more than one tooth can be addressed at the same time.
o 1st appt.: This will be the initial consultation where the patient and dentist will discuss the possibilities. X-rays may be taken; molds may be made of the teeth and a plan will be made.
o 2nd appt.: Preparation procedures will be carried out during the second visit. The dentist will need to remove a portion of the external tooth so that the veneer will fit over it properly. A numbing agent may be given so that no discomfort is experienced. Another mold will be taken of the patient’s mouth which will be sent to the lab in order to make the aesthetically pleasing shells.
o 3rd appt.: During the third visit, the veneers will be cemented into place. A dentist will first make sure they fit properly and then attach them. The DDS will make sure it’s a good fit, that all cement is removed and that the patient can bite down properly.
-What are the pluses of these devices? They are attractive, durable, and virtually stain proof. The patient will be proud to smile and show off his or her pearly whites.
-What are the negatives? They are not reversible once they’re in place. If a person tends to grind his or her teeth, this can cause chipping. Although it doesn’t happen often, they can fall off.
-Do you still need to brush and floss your teeth? Yes; regular dental hygiene such as brushing, flossing and seeing your oral health care practitioner is still necessary.
- Will people be able to tell a person has coverings over unsightly teeth? People will be able to tell that the person looks great and smiles more often but won’t be sure why.
Veneers can make a person’s smile more attractive and cover their discolored or spotty enamel, fill in their gaps, even out chips, indentations, and jagged edges plus straighten out irregular alignment. If a person is interested in having these enhancements placed on their teeth, they should make an appointment with their dentist to discuss the possibilities.
