How do veneers work? If you’re asking this question, we’re guessing that you’re unhappy with the appearance of your smile and looking at options to improve it.
Cosmetic dentistry techniques are improving year on year. Whereas once cosmetic procedures were the preserve of the rich and famous, times have changed – and for the better!
Say hello to porcelain veneers
People from all walks of life are opting for life-changing cosmetic treatments as word spreads about the fantastic results a high-quality dentist can achieve. One of the most popular cosmetic treatments is porcelain veneers. Quick to apply and instantly beautiful, the standard of dental veneers has reached a point where it’s virtually impossible to distinguish them from natural teeth with the naked eye.
There are two types of dental veneers – porcelain and composite, but we will focus mainly on the former in this article.
Porcelain is often the preferred choice for dental veneers over composite because it’s a longer-lasting and higher quality material. It has similar translucent properties to tooth enamel enabling the light to shine through, giving them the sparkle associated with natural teeth. It’s also highly resistant to stains, making it an excellent choice for those that suffer from discoloured teeth.
So, how do veneers work?
Veneers are thin, delicately shaped slivers of material – most often porcelain – that are attached to the front surface of teeth and bonded securely in place. Despite being ultra-thin, veneer shells are highly durable, almost as strong as natural teeth. Because dental veneers can be shade-matched to surrounding teeth, they blend seamlessly into your smile.
Since veneers consist of a single layer of porcelain, they can’t function as an entire tooth. They can, however, improve the strength of tooth enamel that has worn thin, and on occasions, they can fix problems with speaking or eating due to the shape or placement of the teeth. Overall, veneers should be considered as part of the tooth structure.
Each veneer is custom made with every attention paid to detail. There’s no need to cover every tooth with a dental veneer. It may be that you love the appearance of your smile apart from one tooth that sits slightly crooked. No problem. Our experienced dentists can fit veneers into your smile, just like placing pieces into a jigsaw puzzle to complete the picture.
Some people opt to have all the teeth in their smile line covered with veneers. Not only does this give them a picture-perfect smile, but it can eliminate the need for whitening treatments too.
How do dental veneers work for different people?
Porcelain veneers are an extremely versatile treatment that can assist anyone unhappy with the look of their otherwise healthy smile. Dental veneers work for people with:
- Internally discoloured teeth
- Uneven or gapped teeth
- Mildly misaligned teeth
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Teeth that are mismatched in size
The dental veneers procedure can dramatically change the appearance of a person’s smile and boost their self-confidence.
How do dental veneers work? How are they applied?
Porcelain veneers usually require two dental appointments a few weeks apart.
The dentist will make a mould from your teeth during the first appointment that helps the dental technicians create your custom veneers.
A small amount of tooth enamel is removed, so the veneers sit flush within the smile. The dentist will provide temporary veneers while you wait for your permanent veneers to come back from the dental lab.
The second appointment is for the dentist to install your permanent veneers and cement them firmly to your teeth. A few quick adjustments and you’re ready to take on the world with a brand new smile.
How to care for your veneers, so they work for you?
While porcelain veneers are durable, it’s best to avoid overly crunchy or sticky foods as this could cause them to chip or break. While a veneer can’t decay, don’t forget that the natural tooth below it can.
For this reason, it’s essential to maintain good oral health with daily brushing and flossing and regular check-ups with the dentist.
If you grind your teeth, then wear a nightguard while you sleep to prevent teeth from coming into contact with one another. If you play contact sports, then always wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth your veneers.
Although porcelain is resistant to stains, it pays to avoid stain-causing foods and beverages such as curry, cola, coffee, tea and red wine and avoid smoking altogether.
With care, dental veneers can last over ten years and sometimes longer.
Growing old with dental veneers
As people age, their teeth and gums move slightly, affecting the fit of their veneers. Don’t worry. Your cosmetic dentist can replace your veneers, so be sure to call them if any issues arise.
A dentist can also mend chips and cracks, so don’t panic if one of your veneers gets damaged.
Do you want a dazzling new smile?
With innovative CEREC technology, we can complete your brand new smile in just one day. What a result! You can watch your new smile be created digitally while you relax in our ultra-modern treatment rooms – and walk out a brand-new you.
You can save on costs too. We’re currently offering a variety of amazing Veneers Packages, and it would be a shame to miss out. Call Sydney Laser Dental Care today to book your new smile.
Pyrmont: (02) 9158 6273
Illawong: (02) 9158 6756
Sylvania Waters: (02) 9159 6083
