Smiling is a worldwide communication tool. In addition to the physiological and emotional advantages of smiling, you’ll be doing your part to spread happiness throughout the world. Some people, however, avoid smiling because they are self-conscious about their teeth. There is good news: Cosmetic dentistry can make your smile look better and make you feel better about yourself.
Since cosmetic dentistry can improve the appearance of your teeth, it can also make it easier to eat, smile, and talk. Bellow, Brock North Dental will tell you all you need to know about getting dental veneers, including what they are, how they work, and who is a good candidate for them.
What Are Dental Veneers?
In dentistry, veneers are thin, custom-made tooth-colored shells put on the front surface of teeth to make them look better. They are usually made of porcelain or a resin-composite material and are securely bonded to your teeth.
There are many aesthetic issues that veneers can be used to correct, such as chipped, stained, or small teeth. In the event of a cracked or broken tooth, some people may only need one veneer, but many people require six to eight veneers to get an equal, symmetrical smile. Veneers are most typically used on the top eight teeth in the front.
The Process
Compared to crowns or braces, veneers are less invasive. Getting dental veneers usually takes a lot of trips to the dentist. First and foremost, your dentist will examine your teeth to determine whether or not dental veneers are a good option for you.
When a tooth is being prepared for a veneer, your dentist will remove a tiny bit of enamel from the surface, equivalent to the veneer’s thickness. You and your dentist will determine whether or not to use a local anesthetic to numb the area before shaving off the enamel. As a next step, your dentist will create a mold of your tooth. This model is sent to a dental lab, which manufactures your veneer. This procedure is for porcelain veneers; usually, composite resin can be done in a single visit.
Once your piece is ready, your dentist will temporarily attach the dental veneer to your tooth to check its fit. If necessary, they will remove and reshape the veneer to ensure a perfect fit. Preparing your tooth for the veneer involves cleaning, polishing, and etching it to roughen it up and enable a better bond. Once the veneer is fitted on the tooth, your dentist will use a special light to activate chemicals in the cement, making it harden quickly. The final stages are to remove any excess cement, evaluate your bite, and alter the veneer as needed. Your dentist may ask you to return in a few weeks to monitor your gums’ reaction to the veneer and to re-evaluate its placement.
Want a beautiful smile? Contact Brock North Dental!