09 Feb What Are Veneers?
There are many ways to restore a smile. One simple, non-invasive way, is the application of veneers. Veneers are coverings for our teeth that are built to the specifications of our own teeth, and they are made to look like your natural, surrounding teeth.
Veneers are used for many reasons. Teeth that are stained by food, drink, tobacco, etc.—teeth that are beyond bleaching—are candidates for veneers. Another use for veneers is to correct broken, chipped, worn, and misshapen teeth. Teeth that have inordinate gaps between them also benefit from veneers.
What are veneers made from?
Veneers are built from either ceramic or composite resin materials—each type will have its own drawbacks and benefit—and your dentist will be ready to assist you in making the decision as to which material will work the best for you.
Porcelain veneers are thin shells that are made to fit the surfaces of the tooth. Porcelain veneers are strong and robust, they tend to last, especially when cared for and cleaned (they have the same needs as normal teeth). When a dentist installs a porcelain veneer, they will remove some enamel from the surface of the tooth. Enamel removal helps to make more room on the surface of the tooth for the veneer.
Composite-resin veneers are installed differently. The composite-resin is tooth colored, and it’s applied to the surface of the tooth. Veneers like these are not as strong as the porcelain variety, but they are more easily installed and replaced. Porcelain veneers could be installed completely in one office visit. The composite-resin is hardened onto the surfaces of the tooth by a UV light.
I have veneers, now what?
Veneers are not a cure-all, and, in fact, your daily oral cleaning routine should be kept intact. You will still need to clean your teeth twice daily, and floss at least once. Veneers can break or chip just like teeth. Avoid chewing on overly sticky substances, or hard objects. Also, it may feel strange for the first few days to a week with the veneers in your mouth, understand that this is normal, and you will be used to wearing them soon.
If you have any questions about veneers, make an appointment with Butte’s Best Dentist Today!
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