What do teeth look like under veneers? There’s so much more than meets the eye. If you’re considering dental veneers, we’re here to tell you everything you need to know.
What are veneers exactly?
Before answering the question, what do teeth look like under veneers, let’s explain quickly what they are. Veneers are customised wafer-thin shells designed to cover the tooth’s front surface and made from tooth-coloured materials.
Dentists use them to rectify cosmetic issues with the smile by improving the teeth’ size, shape, colour, and length. At Sydney Laser Dental Care, we offer porcelain veneers and composite veneers. Each treatment has its pros and cons, which we’ll discuss further.
What problems can veneers fix?
Both porcelain and composite veneers can change the appearance of teeth that are:
- Broken or chipped
- Worn down
- Misshapen
- Heavily stained or discoloured
- Gapped
- Uneven
Dentists also recommend veneers if you want a fresh new look. So, if you’re unhappy with the appearance of your smile, why not transform it with veneers and increase your confidence too.
Porcelain veneers and their benefits
Porcelain veneers are trending like crazy because they look so incredibly life-like. This high-quality material is chosen because it has similar light-reflecting properties to tooth enamel to produce natural-looking results.
Aside from this, porcelain veneers are strong and have been shown to last for as long as 20 years. Of course, this relies on meticulous oral hygiene. Patients should avoid biting down on hard foods such as ice or boiled sweets and give up habits like nail-biting to help prevent breakage. Other than that, porcelain veneers can reward you with a dazzling smile for many years to come.
The major downside to porcelain veneers is their lack of flexibility to damage. If one cracks or breaks, it will have to be replaced by the laboratory that made them. Also, they cost more than their composite counterparts.
Composite veneers
If you’re looking for a quick fix and on a tighter budget, composite veneers may be ideal. Composite is the same synthetic tooth-coloured material dentists use for fillings. Patients love composite veneers because they can be completed in a single visit. With good care, they can last for up to 7 years.
However, composite veneers are inferior to those made from porcelain in aesthetics and strength. Composite is weaker and more susceptible to chips, so repairs may become more frequent. This may not be practical in the long run. Also, composite does not reflect light in the same way and doesn’t look as natural.
Now, on to the matter in question: what do teeth look like under veneers?
When it comes to composite veneers, hardly any tooth preparation is required. The dentist applies the resin to the tooth’s surface and shapes it. High-density light is used to cure it, and your cracked or stained tooth looks brand spanking new.
So, in answer to what do teeth look like under veneers?
When the dentist removes composite veneers, the teeth look the same as before. However, the same doesn’t apply to porcelain veneers.
These require a sliver of tooth enamel to be removed to make room for the veneers, so they sit flush with the smile. And sometimes, this can cause tooth sensitivity.
Because tooth enamel cannot renew itself, it means that, unlike composite, porcelain laminates are irreversible. Once a person has them, there is no turning back. In other words, they are permanent.
Our dentists are careful to keep enamel reduction to a minimum at Sydney Laser Dental Care. Conserving natural teeth is our priority since this helps ensure a longer-lasting veneer smile.
So what do teeth look like under veneers?
Well, they probably look a little strange without the tooth enamel, But since they will be permanently covered, it doesn’t really matter!
That’s the beauty of veneers. They completely mask the teeth underneath, allowing you to have the beautiful smile you’ve always longed for.
Do teeth under veneers rot?
We consistently stress the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene because of the many benefits. Establishing a good oral care routine at home and visiting your dentist twice a year for a thorough check-up and deep clean will help keep the natural teeth underneath the veneers healthy. Not doing so may result in the laminates breaking, and you may find the teeth beneath them are already decayed.
How to care for your veneers?
Treat them just like your real teeth. Brush them twice a day, and floss before going to bed. Use an antiseptic mouthwash to help eliminate food particles and bacteria in those hard to reach areas. While veneers cover the front of your teeth, the back is still exposed to plaque and bacteria that cause cavities. If you’re not committed to good oral care, there’s every chance your laminates will fail quickly.
So now you have the answer to what do teeth look like under veneers.
Are you ready to achieve your dream smile?
At Sydney Laser Dental Care, you can trust us to bring out the best in your smile. Our cosmetic dentists will determine if you are a suitable candidate and explain the procedure so you know what to expect. We’re currently offering amazing offers on dental veneers so don’t miss out! Book online today.
Pyrmont: (02) 9158 6213
Illawong: (02) 9158 6756
Sylvania Waters: (02) 9159 6083
References
Science Daily – How caries-causing bacteria can survive in dental plaque
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/11/171102095913.htm
Colgate – Porcelain vs Composite Veneers: Which Are Better for You?
https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/veneers/composite-veneers-other-options
