A smile is an important part of making a first impression. It’s worth investing in. According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, 48% of Americans consider their smiles to be their most memorable feature.
Your pearly whites may not look as white or pearly as they once did.
Cosmetic veneers can be used to restore stained, chipped or cracked teeth. It’s important to fully understand the process before making a commitment.
Continue reading to learn everything you need before getting veneers.
How do Veneers work?
Dental veneers are custom-made ceramic shells made to fit the front of your teeth. If properly maintained, they can last for many decades.
Porcelain (ceramic) is tinted to match your skin tone. Veneers can be tinted to look natural, and have the same translucent qualities as real teeth.
Veneers can be a great option for those who wish to maintain their natural teeth, but require more extensive corrections than whitening. Veneers are a great option for people who have severe staining, chips or cracks, mismatched or short teeth, and wear and tear due to aging.
What to Expect When Getting Veneers
Veneers are a multi-step process that takes two to three visits, and can take a few weeks.
An initial consultation and checkup are required. Your dentist will examine your smile and determine if you are a suitable candidate. Then, the dentist will discuss the next steps. These will be addressed first if you require fillings or implants.
Next, your dentist will prepare your teeth for veneers. This involves removing a thin layer of enamel from the front of the teeth (less than your fingernail). The dentist will take an impression of the new smile and make temporary veneers. These will last until permanent ones arrive. You can decide if you want to change the color or shape of your temporary veneers. It’s basically a “test drive” for new teeth.
After the final porcelain veneers are sculpted, the dentist will apply them to your teeth. After the temporary veneers have been removed, a bonding cement will be applied to your teeth. Your new smile is now ready for you!
Take Care of Your Veneers
For a few days, your gums and mouth will be tender and sore. The bonding cement may cause some tooth sensitivity. It is normal to feel some discomfort, and it will go away as your mouth heals. However, you should always have some ibuprofen in case of emergency.
Your veneers should be treated the same as your regular teeth. You should continue to brush your veneers twice daily and floss frequently. Avoid chewing on any food that could chip your teeth (ice chewers!). Your veneers will last longer if you take good care of your teeth.
Your veneers can be kept for as long as 20 years. Due to regular wear and tear, your veneers will need to be replaced. You can replace it if one is damaged before the rest.
Veneers can be an investment
Make sure you have considered the cost of veneers before you make a decision to get them. If they do cover any cosmetic procedures, many dental insurance plans will not cover them. If you have concerns about your finances, talk to your dentist in Turkey about repayment options.
Despite this, porcelain veneers don’t need to be applied to all your teeth. You can have veneers almost invisible that match your rest of the teeth if only a few of your teeth are affected by visible defects. Because they are most visible when you smile, some people choose to have them placed just above their top front teeth.
Not everyone is a good candidate
Veneers are one the most common cosmetic dental procedures. However, there are some things that could prevent you from being a good candidate. These are:
Habitual grinding or jaw clenching of teeth
Structural tooth damage can be severe
Crossbite or Underbite
Gum disease (active and recurrent).
Grave tooth crowding
Excessive cavities or poor oral hygiene
Labial version
If you have any of the above conditions, talk to your dentist about veneers. There are many options available to improve your smile. Make sure you choose the right one for you.
Make sure you see a skilled dentist
Cosmetic dentistry can be a serious job. It is important that your veneers are done by an experienced dentist. You may need to look around for a cosmetic dentist that offers it.
Ask to see before-and-after images of their work before you make your final decision. Every dentist is different, so ensure that your style matches theirs.
Another great way to make sure you are seeing a good dentist is through testimonials. Ask your family and friends for recommendations.
Are Dental Veneers Right for You?
Porcelain veneers might be the best option for you if you are unhappy with your smile. In as little as two weeks, this non-invasive procedure can transform your smile.