You may have seen smiles that look bright and perfectly aligned and wondered how it’s done. For many people, the answer is dental veneers. This cosmetic solution, offered at Acacia Dental Centre, is a popular choice for addressing concerns ranging from discolouration to small gaps between teeth.
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of your teeth in order to improve their appearance. Let’s look at what veneers are, how they work, and what you can expect from them.
A Closer Look at Dental Veneers
Think of a dental veneer as a new face for a tooth. Veneers are thin, custom shells that are bonded directly to the front of your natural teeth. They’re typically made from two types of material, each with its own benefits.
- Porcelain: These veneers are strong and long-lasting. They have a natural-looking surface that reflects light much like real tooth enamel while also resisting stains.
- Composite Resin: This material is applied in layers directly onto the tooth and then shaped by the dental team. This process often requires less preparation of your original tooth, but they have a shorter lifespan than porcelain veneers.
Dental Issues Veneers Can Correct
Veneers are versatile and can help with a number of common dental issues. You might find them to be a good option if you want to improve the look of teeth that are:
- Stained or discoloured, especially if whitening treatments haven’t given you the results you want
- Worn down from grinding, or have become chipped or broken
- Slightly misaligned, uneven, or have an irregular shape
- Spaced out, with noticeable gaps between them
The Advantages of Veneers
Veneers are a common choice because they offer a straightforward way to transform a smile.
A Natural Look & Feel
One of the main goals of veneers is to look like an improved version of your natural teeth. The colour and shape of your veneers are customized to blend in with your smile, so they feel like a natural part of you.
Stain Resistance
Porcelain veneers are particularly good at resisting new stains from coffee, tea, or red wine. This feature helps your new smile stay bright for years.
Durability & Longevity
With proper care, veneers can last for a long time. They are made from strong materials designed to withstand the normal function of biting and chewing your favourite foods.
What to Know Before You Choose Veneers
Like any dental procedure, there are important factors to think about before you move forward with getting veneers. It helps to have a clear picture of the entire process from start to finish.
A Permanent Procedure
To place a veneer, a very thin layer of your natural tooth enamel is typically removed. This helps the veneer fit perfectly and look natural. Because enamel doesn’t grow back, this procedure is permanent.
The Cost of Treatment
The cost of veneers can vary based on the material you choose and how many teeth you want to treat. It’s a good idea to discuss the pros and cons during your consultation with your dentist.
The Possibility of Sensitivity
Some people experience temporary tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures after veneers are placed. This feeling usually fades as your teeth adjust.
The Veneer Placement Path
Getting veneers usually involves a few appointments at the dental clinic. Your team will guide you through each step so that you know what to expect.
- Your First Consultation: You’ll start by discussing your smile goals with your dental team. We’ll examine your teeth to see if veneers are the right option for you.
- Prepare Your Teeth: A small amount of the tooth’s front surface is gently shaped to make room for the veneer. A scan of your teeth is then taken in order to create your custom veneers.
- Place Your Custom Veneers: Once your veneers are ready, your team will check the fit and colour. Then, they’re bonded permanently to your teeth for a seamless finish.
Care for Your New Smile
Taking care of veneers is simple—you just care for them like you do your natural teeth. Good habits can help them last as long as possible.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
You should continue to brush twice a day and floss daily. This routine keeps your teeth and gums healthy around your veneers and prevents plaque buildup.
Protection from Clenching and Grinding
If you tend to clench or grind your teeth, we typically recommend wearing a night guard to help protect your veneers while you sleep, since veneers aren’t as strong as natural teeth.
Attend Regular Dental Visits
Regular check-ups and cleanings are just as important after you get veneers. As your dentist in Sherwood Park, we can help you maintain your oral health and make sure your veneers stay in great shape. If you have questions about how veneers could improve your smile, our team at Acacia Dental Centre is here to help. Reach out to schedule a consultation and explore all your options.
