Veneers

What are dental veneers?

Veneers are an ultra-thin covering, like contact lenses. They fit over the surface of your teeth, improving their position, color, shape, and size. They are an excellent cosmetic treatment because they preserve most of your natural tooth tissue while giving you a beautiful and durable smile.

Dental veneers are made of either resin composite or porcelain. Porcelain veneers are stronger, more stain-resistant, and more natural-looking than composite resin, but they also tend to be a bit pricier.

What dental issues can veneers correct?

Dental veneers can be used to address numerous cosmetic flaws, including teeth that are:

• Misshapen
• Chipped
• Broken
• Worn down
• Discolored
• Gapped
• Misaligned

During your consultation, your dentist at SPA Dental Group helps you understand the full range of cosmetic dentistry options, and they guide you toward the treatments that are best suited to your specific needs and goals.

How are dental veneers put into place?

Once you and your dentist decide to move forward with veneers, you take X-rays and impressions of your upper and lower teeth. Next, your dentist carefully removes a tiny portion of your tooth enamel to create room for the veneer. Only around one half of a millimeter is removed, which is nearly the thickness of the veneers.

That information helps ensure that the dental lab creates a set of custom veneers that look great and allow for a proper bite. You might receive a set of temporary veneers to wear while your veneers are being crafted.

Once your new veneers arrive, your dentist checks the fit before cementing them in place. Special dental cement allows your dentist to customize the shade of your new veneers. A light beam activates the cement to harden. Once your dentist removes any excess dental cement and checks your bite and smile, the process is complete.

Are dental veneers permanent?

Although your new veneers are incredibly durable, they will not last forever. With proper care, you can expect your veneers to last 10 years or longer. Eventually, you’ll need to return for a new set of veneers, which involves the same process outlined above.

You can extend the life of your veneers by engaging in a solid dental hygiene routine. That includes regular dental exams and cleanings, as well as a home system of brushing and flossing. You should also avoid biting down on hard items or continuing habits like chewing ice. Placing excessive strain on your teeth can cause your veneers to chip or crack.

When you’re ready for the smile of your dreams, SPA Dental Group is here to help. Schedule a consultation today to get the process started or to ask any questions you have regarding cosmetic dentistry.