Veneers are thin custom-made shells that are made of either porcelain, composite resin or dental bonding solutions designed to cover the from of your teeth. Veneers improve the appearance of your smile by covering several unwanted characteristics of your smile such as: chips, cracks, gaps, discolouration and improve an overly gummy smile. Depending on the case, veneers can be done in one or few visits.
Veneers were first created by Dr. Charles Pincus in order to obtain that perfect “Hollywood” smile, and it is an amazing way to hide any insecurities you may have with your teeth. Over the years, there have been a number of improvements made in order to better the convenience and affordability.
What are veneers?
Veneers are thin custom-made shells that are made of either porcelain, composite resin or dental bonding solutions designed to cover the front of your teeth. Veneers improve the appearance of your smile by covering several unwanted characteristics of your smile such as: chips, cracks, gaps, discolouration and improve an overly gummy smile. When consulting with a dentist, you’ll have the option to choose between composite resin or porcelain veneers.
Composite resin veneers
With no-prep veneers they can be fitted directly to your teeth, and generally only require one visit to the dentist! First, a chemical is placed onto the tooth in order to give it more texture. Then, composite resin will be placed in layers onto the tooth, with a bright light to make it dry hard. Finally, the dentist will shape each tooth in order to give you a smooth and glowing smile!
Porcelain veneers
These veneers are a little more complex and will require multiple visits to the dentist. However, these ones will lasting longer and will not change colour. The first visit consists of your dentist removing part of the enamel from your teeth so that they can receive and adhere the veneer much easier. The dentist will then take a mold of your teeth, which will be used to custom make the veneers to fit your teeth perfectly. It may take a little while for the veneers to be ready, so the dentist will likely give you temporary ones. The next visit is when the real ones will be put on. First, by using a chemical to give your teeth texture, and then each veneer gets glued onto each teeth. Voila – let that perfect smile shine bright!
Qualifications of getting veneers
As exciting as this procedure, it is not always for everyone. If you have one of these issues it may be best to consult your dentist on a different solution:
- Veneers need enamel in order to stick, therefore if you have little to none left then you may not be a good candidate
- You need to be gentle with your mouth once the veneers are in. If you have bruxism (grinding or clenching of teeth), then this procedure is not recommended
- Obtaining a crown may be a better option if the tooth has too much of it missing
- If you have a tooth that is decaying or if you have gum disease, then you should attempt to get it treated before considering veneers
After the procedure is done
Once the procedure is done, you always have to make sure to follow the set of instructions given to you by your dentist. It is important to watch what you eat when you have veneers put in, as there is now a higher chance of your teeth getting chipped. Try to avoid hard or chewy foods, and remember to never bite your fingernails! Think of the veneers as your regular teeth, this means flossing and brushing still has to happen daily. Enjoy your perfect teeth, and new Hollywood smile!