Do you often find yourself hiding your smile? Being insecure about the state of your teeth can be tough on your self-esteem, and trying to hide your smile can become a burden. Fortunately, there is something you can do to restore and renew your beautiful smile! Dental veneers can improve the appearance of your smile and may be the solution you’re looking for! Here is everything you need to know about dental veneers.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Over time, our teeth can become worn, discolored, or damaged due to normal use. However, this wear and tear can become a problem, especially when front teeth are affected. Since these teeth are most visible when we talk and smile, it can lower our self-esteem if they’re not in good condition.
Dental veneers (also known as laminates) are thin shells attached to the front of your teeth to cover up any discoloration, damage, or unwanted gaps and give you the appearance of having natural, beautiful teeth. They can also help correct the size and length of your teeth while reinforcing your teeth and improving your bite, making your teeth stronger in general.
Dental veneers are custom-made to comfortably fit over your teeth. They are also matched to your natural tooth color, so they appear as natural as possible.
How Are Veneers Attached?
When choosing veneers, you can decide between two main types. The process for attaching veneers is different depending on the type of veneer you have chosen.
To make porcelain veneers look natural, a small amount of enamel from the front and sides of your teeth must be removed. This is to create space for the veneers. A mold of your teeth is then taken to ensure the veneers will fit over your teeth comfortably.
Your molds are sent to a lab where our experienced dental technicians will create your veneers. While you wait for your veneers to be made, you will be fitted with temporary veneers.
Upon your second visit to Radiance Dental, you will be fitted with your veneers, where you can note any needed alterations. Once they are complete, they’re cleaned and bonded to your teeth.
Composite veneers are simpler and require applying a bonding material to the surface of your tooth to correct its shape and color.
If you only have a few veneers attached, you may feel no pain after the procedure is complete. However, if you’ve had a full set of veneers put in, there may be some mild jaw and gum discomfort in the days following the procedure. The pain can be alleviated with simple over-the-counter pain medication.
Keep in mind that veneers may not be an option for you if you have excessive tooth decay.
The Different Types of Dental Veneers
There are two main types of veneers, so you may be wondering which type of veneer is best for you. Both options will benefit you by giving you a more attractive smile, but each has a different set of benefits.
Porcelain Veneers
Getting fitted with porcelain veneers may take two to three appointments, but these veneers are the best, most natural-looking you can get. A mold must be taken of your teeth during an initial appointment, sent to a lab where the veneers are created and attached to your teeth at a second appointment. A followup appointment may be necessary.
Porcelain veneers are relatively translucent, making your teeth look more natural than composite veneers. They also retain their color and can last 10 to 15 years.
Composite Veneers
Composite resin veneers are created in our Camas, WA dentist office, and applied to your teeth in a single appointment. A shade of resin that matches your teeth is chosen, applied to your teeth in layers, shaped, and polished to look natural.
Composite veneers are less expensive than porcelain veneers and easy to repair, but may only last four to eight years.
Dental Veneers’ Cost
The cost of dental veneers can range depending on a few factors. Porcelain veneers are typically more expensive than composite resin because of the better quality of the material and the fact that the final product closely resembles the natural tooth surface. Additionally, your final cost will depend on how many veneers you need to have made.
Composite veneers can cost anywhere from $250 to $1,500 per tooth, whereas porcelain veneers can cost from $800 to $2,500 per tooth. Veneers typically aren’t covered by most insurance because they’re considered a cosmetic procedure, but we have many payment and financing options to help you get the smile of your dreams.
Porcelain dental veneers can last upwards of ten years when well taken care of, making them a smart investment!
How to Care for Veneers
To get the veneers to adhere to your teeth, a portion of your tooth’s front must be removed. Because of this, veneers are a permanent solution that must be maintained. If they become damaged, they’ll have to be replaced.
To take care of your veneers, you must maintain your oral hygiene. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups can help your veneers last a long time!
If you have a habit of grinding your teeth or biting your nails, your porcelain veneers may crack or chip, so they may not be the solution you need.
Where You Can Get Dental Veneers
You can see if veneers are right for you by scheduling a free consultation with Dr. Bharathi here at Radiance Dental. Dental veneers aren’t for everyone, but your Dr. Bharathi can help you figure out if they’re an option. If you decide to go forward with the decision to get veneers, it can take one to three visits over a few weeks to complete the cosmetic procedure.
Improving Your Smile and Your Confidence
Now that you know about dental veneers and how they can improve your smile, you can make an informed decision on whether they’re right for you! Confidence and a beautiful smile are waiting for you.
If you’re in the Camas, Washington area, schedule an appointment with our dentist today!
