Have you ever wondered how celebrities get those picture-perfect, beautiful smiles? The answer is often dental veneers. This cosmetic dental procedure is painless, fast, and produces stunning results. But, as is often the case with almost any type of dental procedure, it may not be the right choice for everyone. What follows are some frequently asked questions about porcelain veneers that can help you decide whether or not you are a good candidate for this popular dental procedure.
Q: What exactly are dental veneers?
A: A veneer consists of a thin shell (usually made of dental porcelain or plastic) that is applied directly over the patient’s natural tooth and secured by a special dental adhesive.
Q: What are some reasons why people choose dental veneers?
A: Veneers are often a good choice for people with worn enamel (which can’t be whitened by tooth-whitening products), worn down teeth, misaligned teeth, or chipped teeth. Veneers can also repair other problems, such as teeth that are irregularly shaped or have large gaps in between them.
Q: What is the process involved in getting dental veneers?
A: The procedure begins with the dentist preparing the tooth surface by removing an extremely thin layer of enamel from the tooth surface, after which he or she will create an impression of your teeth. This mold will be used to create your custom veneers by an outside lab. Your dentist may supply you with temporary veneers while the permanent ones are being made. The final step involves your dentist fitting you with your new porcelain veneers using a specially designed bonding material to adhere each veneer to the tooth surface.
Q: How long do veneers last?
A: Porcelain veneers are extremely durable and stain-resistant. Typically, they last between 5 and 10 years before needing to be replaced.
It’s important to remember that veneers are considered to be cosmetic dentistry, which means that they are not covered by most dental insurance policies. Although they can be somewhat pricey, most patients consider them to be an excellent investment. Veneers require no special care – you simply brush and floss as you normally would. And it’s important, of course, to continue to visit your dentist on a regular basis for checkups and professional cleanings. To find out more about porcelain veneers, and to help decide whether or not they are the right choice for you, call your dentist to schedule a consultation visit.
