5 Things You Should Know about Dental Veneers

Several people embrace cosmetic dentistry to enhance the appearance of their smiles. Veneer placement remains one of the most popular and economical dental cosmetic procedures. A veneer is a wafer-thin tooth-like covering that is bonded to teeth to hide their flaws. Below are things that you should know before getting dental veneers in Houston, TX.

1. Dental Flaws Repaired Using Dental Veneers

• Chipped, worn down, or broken teeth are filled or resurfaced using veneers
• Gaps between teeth covered for a gap-free smile
• Misshaped or misaligned teeth are rectified using veneers
• Teeth that are smaller than the rest are made to appear even
• Permanently stained or discolored teeth are covered up for a whiter, brighter smile
• Missing teeth can be replaced using veneers

2. Different Types of Dental Veneers

Veneers are made of either resin-based composite materials or porcelain. Our orthodontist near you will help you decide which type works for you. Factors considered include dental needs, preferences, and budget.

Porcelain veneers

These are veneers made of tooth-colored ceramic material. Their strength and durability offer a long-term solution to cosmetic problems. They are also stain-resistant and less likely to fracture or chip. In addition, porcelain veneers provide a more natural tooth-like appearance. They are available in several shades, some similar to natural teeth.

Composite resin veneers

Resin-based composite veneers resemble porcelain veneers but are not as strong. They are also less expensive than porcelain ones. However, they require higher maintenance due to their fragile nature. On the other hand, they are conservative and easier to replace if damaged. Composite resin veneers do not require intensive prep work.

3. Dental Veneers Procedure

The first step in the procedure for dental veneers in Houston, TX, involves a preliminary appointment. Our dentist discusses the veneer options suitable for you. The number of teeth to be transformed is considered. An assessment of your oral health is essential to determine suitability for veneers. You may require treatment from an orthodontist near you before veneer placement.

Your teeth are prepared to ensure that the veneers achieve the desired goal. Our dentist may remove some enamel from your tooth to enable the shells to look natural. Veneers such as no-prep veneers do not require enamel removal. A mold of your prepared teeth is sent to the lab for the creation of the veneers.

The final appointment takes place when the custom-made veneers are ready. Our dentist evaluates their shape, fit and color to ensure they transform your smile as desired. The dental hygienist will then clean the teeth thoroughly. Cleaning ensures no bacteria are trapped under the veneer as they may cause decay in the future.

An anesthetic is administered before the grinding process so that you remain comfortable. Next, your new veneers will be placed on the teeth’ surface and stuck to the tooth using dental cement. Next, the dental professional will use ultraviolet light to cure the adhesive quickly. After final adjustments for a perfect fit, your new flawless smile is ready.

4. Caring for Dental Veneers for Durability

Veneers can last for decades when taken proper care of. You should take certain precautions to help your veneers last for as long as possible. The precautions include:

• Do not chew on hard objects like fingernails or ice since your veneers can break or chip under pressure.
• Use scissors or bottle openers to open packages and bottles instead of your teeth.
• When eating, cut up hard foods to avoid chewing with your veneered teeth.
• Use a retainer to protect your veneers if you grind or clench your teeth frequently
• Practice good oral hygiene to keep your veneers from staining. It also prevents tooth decay under or around the veneers.
• Wear a mouthguard during athletic activities to protect them from trauma.
• Attend regular checkups. Our dentist will ensure that the veneers remain in good condition.

5. Comparing Dental Veneers With Dental Crowns

Before getting veneers, ask our dentist near you about other cosmetic dentistry procedures. For instance, veneers and dental crowns improve your smile but involve different methods. Crowns repair teeth with little structure left. Veneers repair teeth that are still intact but slightly flawed.

Dental Veneers cover the front part of a tooth only to hide cosmetic flaws. But, crowns cover the entire tooth to hide imperfections and strengthen the tooth. Our dental team at American Modern Dental will help you compare veneers to other cosmetic dentistry procedures. Contact us or book an appointment with us today to improve your smile with dental veneers.