Veneers

Dental veneers are wafer-thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of teeth, thereby improving the appearance. These shells are bonded to the frontal face of the teeth, changing their color, shape, size or length.

Dental veneers are either made from composites (a type of synthetic resin used in dentistry as a restorative material or an adhesive) or different types of porcelain.

They are custom-made for each patient in the laboratory by dental technicians.

Dental veneers are usually done to enhance the appearance of the teeth under the following conditions:

The right candidates for veneers are people who aren’t satisfied with the appearance of their teeth and smile. They should be aware of all other dental cosmetic options to take the right decision before choosing veneers.

A good candidate for dental veneers must have good oral health. Any teeth or gum problems must be treated prior to the placement of veneers.

The procedure can be done for a single tooth or several teeth at a time. It usually takes 2-3 visits before the procedure can be completed. The dentist uses anesthesia to reduce the pain caused during the procedure.

Firstly, the dentist will grind the tooth a few millimeters within the guidelines for the maximum amount of enamel that can ideally be removed, so as to create space for the veneer to be bonded to the tooth.

Secondly, your dentist will decide the shade of the veneers. If only one tooth or a few teeth are done, then the dentist will choose a shade that closely matches the shade of the adjacent normal teeth. If you are getting all of your teeth done, then your dentist will choose the shade you are most comfortable with.

Next, your dentist will take an impression of your teeth and gums. This copy will be sent to the dental lab to fabricate the veneers.

Sometimes a temporary veneer may be used until the actual one is made. This is done in cases when a large number of teeth have been trimmed. 

Lastly, your dentist will need to check the fit shape and color of the veneer. Once it is finalized, the dentist will bond it to your teeth.

In order to keep your veneers fully functional and intact, you should understand that they are not as strong as your natural teeth. So, you should take extra care of them. It is important not to use your teeth to open bottles, Chew hard food items, rip open plastic bags, etc.

Veneers can last a long time if you take good care of them. Maintaining healthy habits and oral hygiene by brushing your teeth regularly and flossing would definitely be helpful.

It is also important to watch for causes of teeth staining such as tea, coffee, and smoking.

Keep on visiting your dentist regularly to check for any problems and keep on cleaning your teeth to keep your veneers and teeth healthy.