If you’re reluctant to smile in pictures because you’re afraid of exposing teeth that are cracked, stained or uneven, know this: you’re not alone.
In fact, dental veneers have become so popular precisely because people are looking for an attractive, effective way to build a better smile. Here at Portrait Dental in Katy, Dr. Minh Nguyen and his team regularly use veneers to transform their patients’ smiles.
If you’re wondering if veneers will work for you, you’re in the right place. Read on to find out how they work, and who makes a good candidate for veneers.
Veneers are a thin shell of porcelain or enamel affixed to your natural, permanent teeth to improve the appearance of your smile. They are a quick and easy way to address several cosmetic issues with your teeth, such as broken or chipped teeth, gaps between your teeth, discolored teeth, and uneven or pointy teeth.
They come in a variety of shades, so you and your dentist can choose the color that best mimics your natural shade of enamel. They’re also very resistant to staining, so drinking coffee, wine, or sodas won’t be a problem.
If you’re interested in getting veneers, your dentist will perform an oral exam to make sure you don’t have any cavities or very crooked teeth that need to be straightened first. Next, they will trim a thin layer of enamel from the teeth you’re covering so your teeth don’t feel too big and bulky when the veneers are added.
Once this is done, the dentist will take impressions of your teeth and send them to a lab, where your veneers will actually be manufactured. When you return to your dentist, they will line your veneers up and permanently bond them to your teeth.
With proper care (brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, visiting your dentist twice a year), your new veneers can last 10-15 years.
You may not be a good candidate for veneers if your teeth are severely decayed or if you have large fillings that take up the majority of the tooth. If you tend to grind and clench your teeth, you may be more likely to crack or chip the veneer covers as well.
Your teeth may end up feeling more sensitive as a result of removing a layer of enamel, so if sensitivity is a problem for you, veneers may not be the best option for you. The process is also not reversible, so if you’re prone to second-guessing, make absolutely sure veneers are the route you want to go.
Veneers are also one of the more expensive cosmetic dentistry options, so be ready up front for a higher price point.
If you’d like to find out more about veneers and whether they might work for you, contact Portrait Dental by calling our office or requesting an appointment with our convenient online scheduler. We’ll transform your smile before you know it!
