Made famous by celebrities, veneers can help transform your appearance and increase your confidence by lightening, straightening or restoring your smile.
But how do you know if veneers are right for you? Here’s an insight into the technology behind them and just some of the reasons you might consider veneers.
What are veneers?
Veneers are a thin porcelain or composite overlay that adheres to natural teeth. Measuring less than a millimetre, their purpose is to look and behave just like normal teeth.
They are custom-made to the contours of your natural teeth and then bonded to them, making veneers a permanent procedure designed to improve your smile.
How veneers are used
Veneers can be applied to one or a number of teeth and are often used as an alternative to braces or crowns. They can be applied to minimise a gap between teeth, fix a broken tooth or correct minor teeth misalignment.
They can also be applied to improve the colour of your teeth or improve the appearance of front teeth that have been affected by trauma or decay.
The upshot of veneers is that they can create an aesthetically appealing smile without invasive procedures or braces.
How veneers are applied
Veneers require at least two visits to your dental practitioner. The first sees impressions taken of your existing teeth.
Once your individually contoured veneer has been created, the second appointment sees the veneers applied.
This involves preparing the tooth surface and adhering the veneer to it using an adhesive. Your dentist might then schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure the fit of your veneers is suitable.
Why you might consider veneers
Veneers are a cosmetic solution for a variety of dental conditions affecting the front teeth including:
- Closing spaces between the teeth
- Restoring broken or chipped teeth
- Covering unsightly, stained or washed-out fillings
But there are some considerations that need to be taken into account.
Whether or not you are a candidate for veneers depends on the general condition of the teeth they are to be applied to, and this will require careful consideration by your dentist.
Veneers are not a good choice for individuals who clench and grind their teeth; have unhealthy, weakened teeth; or have an inadequate amount of existing enamel on the tooth surface.
Caring for veneers
Veneers are designed to look and behave in exactly the same manner as your natural teeth. That means regular brushing and flossing are a must. It is advised that people with veneers limit their intake of caffeine and other foods that are likely to stain teeth.
The standard lifespan of a veneer is between 10 and 20 years, depending on how well you care for your teeth.
About Brite Dental
Brite Dental is a community-focused dental practice, committed to ensuring you and your family receive the highest quality of care in a warm and professional environment.
Offering a full range of dental services ranging, from children’s dentistry through to high-end cosmetic dentistry, we are conveniently located in central Panania.
You can learn more about our dental services, or contact us to book your next appointment.
