What are Veneers?
Dental veneers are stain-resistant, custom-made porcelain or composite shells that fit over your teeth to improve their appearance. Glued to the front of your teeth, veneers cover chips, stains, and misshapen teeth. The purpose of veneers is to create a cosmetically pleasing appearance.
There are two types of veneers:
1. Composite Veneers
also known as direct veneers, are applied to your teeth in a single dental visit and last between five and seven years before needing replacement.
2. Porcelain Veneers
or indirect veneers require two visits to Smile Boutique because they are custom-made to fit your teeth. During the first visit, the dentist gets your teeth ready for the veneers that are installed at the second appointment. Porcelain veneers last for at least 10-15 years.
How Do You Get Veneers?
During your first appointment, the dentist at Smile Boutique takes X-rays and prepares your teeth for veneers by removing some of your tooth enamel.
If you decide on porcelain veneers, an impression of your teeth is sent to the lab and preparation takes up to two weeks. For composite veneers, your dentist places the veneers directly onto your teeth.
When your dentist gets your veneers back from the lab, he or she checks their fit and color before cleaning them thoroughly.
Then, the surface of your teeth gets roughened to improve veneer adhesion. Your dentist uses a special cement to attach the veneers to your teeth, and an ultraviolet light helps it harden quickly.
Caring for Veneers
Proper oral hygiene helps you maintain your veneers for as long as possible. Therefore, it’s important to treat your new veneers the same way you do your regular teeth. Be sure to keep up with your recommended oral hygiene routine and use non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste.
You should also consider limiting your intake of coffee and other stain-inducing substances. If you clench or grind your teeth, ask your dentist for a night guard to help protect your veneers and teeth from damage.
