How veneers help maintain your smile
Do you ever find yourself dissatisfied with your smile? Believe it or not, dental disorders have a profound impact on your psychological behavior, thus, significantly reduce your self-esteem. However, you no longer have to worry about that stained, chipped, or crooked tooth because modern dentistry provides a wide range of solutions to transform your smile. One of the most recommended solutions is the dental veneer. So, what are dental veneers, and how do they work?
What are dental veneers?
Dental veneers are thin coverings placed on the visible part of your tooth to improve appearance, thus, correcting various dental disorders such as misshapen teeth, uneven spaces, or stained teeth. Veneers are made of porcelain or resin composite materials.
Fun fact: Did you know that veneers have been used on patients with dental disorders for almost 50 years? The early veneers were removable caps that had to be taken out when sleeping or during meals. Current veneers offer a permanent solution as they are permanently bonded to your teeth.
Different types of veneers and how you can choose the best among them
There are several types of dental veneers, depending on the material used to make them. Porcelain veneers are made from porcelain by first creating a mold from an impression of your teeth. The porcelain veneer is made from the mold, after which it is cemented on your teeth. However, technology is advancing, and porcelain veneer can be made entirely through Computer-Aided Design technology.
Secondly, there are composite resin veneers made by etching the surface of your tooth and applying a thin layer of composite material to your prepared teeth. Additional layers of the composite are applied until the desired shape of the tooth is achieved. The dentist finishes off by curing or hardening the composite veneer using a special light. Composite-resin veneers are less expensive compared to porcelain veneers but get damaged or stained more easily.
Moreover, there are no-prep veneers. Like cosmetic contact lenses, no-prep veneers cover the front of the tooth without the need to remove layers of the tooth under the enamel. Thus, they do not require the use of local anesthesia.
To choose the best type of veneers, you have to consider several factors such as cost, recommendations by your dentist, the appearance of the veneers, and longevity. The installation process can also be a guiding factor.
Getting the longest lifespan out of your veneers
The cost of veneers can range from $400 to $2000 per tooth. Therefore, it is in your best interest to take the necessary precautions to ensure you get the longest lifespan out of your veneers. Some of the precautions to take include wearing a mouthguard or retainer when playing sports or if you clench your teeth, chewing food with your back teeth only, and not using your teeth to open packages or chew hard objects like plastics. With this in mind, your veneers are sure to keep that gorgeous smile on for up to ten or even twenty years.
Final thoughts
There you have it! Veneers present a solution for your frowned face and low self-esteem. Choose the best type of veneers and visit the dentist near your. For any enquiries, we at Steelecroft Dental are just a call away. You can always call (704) 753-8316 or book an appointment to restore your smile today!