Dental veneers are a great way to enhance your smile without spending a lot of money. Some patients, though, wonder what becomes of their teeth when veneers are attached. If you’re considering veneers, this is the article for you. Here, we will discuss everything you need to know about veneers and how they can affect your teeth.
What are veneers?
Veneers are coverings designed to fit snugly over the front surfaces of your teeth. Dentists use dental materials of the highest quality, like tooth-coloured porcelain or composite, to create them.
Who needs veneers?
Veneers are a popular solution for patients who want to enhance the look of their smile. They can camouflage:
- Misshapen teeth
- Very small teeth
- Broken or chipped teeth
- Diastema (spaces or gaps between your teeth)
- Stains that are unresponsive to teeth whitening
If you want veneers, it’s crucial to make sure that you don’t have gum disease or cavities. Before you consider cosmetic dental treatments, it is important to fix any existing oral health problems.
Is there a difference between porcelain and composite veneers?
Composite veneers are made of resin, which offers a quick and easy solution as a cosmetic treatment. Porcelain veneers take longer to create, as they must be made in a dental laboratory.
In order to get porcelain veneers, you generally have to go in for two appointments. The first is to shape and prepare your teeth, while the second is to apply the veneers. Some patients prefer porcelain for its more natural look, but composite can be coloured to match any shade and moulded into the desired shape.
Porcelain lasts longer overall, but composite veneers are also very strong. If the composite is chipped, it can be repaired, whereas porcelain veneers must be replaced. The type of veneer you choose is based on many factors, including your budget, how quickly you wish to see results, and which look you prefer.
How do dental veneers affect your teeth?
To create the best possible fit, the cosmetic dentist will roughen the teeth slightly. They will remove approximately 0.5 mm of the tooth’s surface before applying the veneer.
Patients must consider upkeep when selecting a cosmetic treatment, as veneers require maintenance after the initial process. Dental veneers become essential as the teeth need protection because the enamel has been removed.
Porcelain veneers are an effective way to protect your natural teeth from bacteria and decay. Although veneers remove some of the tooth surface, they help preserve your tooth structure.
What are the advantages of porcelain veneers?
Below are some of the advantages of porcelain veneers:
1. They are permanent
Veneers provide a lifelong cosmetic dental solution as long as you take care of your teeth and gums.
2. They are perfect for fixing enamel damage
If your tooth enamel has been eroded or damaged, veneers can help protect your teeth from the bacteria that cause tooth decay.
3. They can transform your smile
Porcelain veneers provide a beautiful, natural smile that you can be proud of. Almost perfect teeth are now within reach, regardless of your imperfections. With discolouration, gaps, and crooked teeth gone, you can finally feel confident with your smile.
4. Tooth colour is uniform
The foods and drinks you consume will gradually cause your teeth to become discoloured. In addition, other activities like smoking can also cause staining. Porcelain veneers allow you to have a brighter, more natural-looking smile that will last. Porcelain is resistant to staining, meaning your teeth will not stain over time and will retain their original colour.
How to take care of your veneers?
Don’t eat foods that discolour your teeth
While porcelain veneers are mostly resistant to stains, the adhesives used to keep them in place are not. This can result in the discolouration of your veneers’ edges. You can help keep your dental veneers looking their best by avoiding coffee and soda and using a straw when you do drink them.
Go for dental check-ups regularly
You must visit your dentist every six months for a routine check-up if you have porcelain veneers. Your teeth and gums will stay healthy, and your veneers can be repaired if necessary. Attending your scheduled appointments will help keep your veneers in good shape for a longer period of time.
Quit smoking
Smoking is not only a harmful habit, but it also damages your veneers. If you smoke, your veneers will become discoloured and stained over time. If you want your veneers to look their best, refrain from smoking.
Avoid grinding your teeth
If you have the habit of clenching or grinding your teeth, this can damage your veneers – so it’s important to break the habit as soon as possible.
Maintain good oral hygiene
The best way to keep your veneers pristine for a longer period of time is by practising proper oral hygiene. Not only will this prolong the life of your veneers, but it will also keep your mouth healthy. Although porcelain veneers don’t decay, the part of your teeth that is exposed may still be vulnerable to cavities. You will need to brush at least twice daily and floss once in order to keep your dental veneers in tip-top shape.
Use proper toothpaste and a soft toothbrush
Make sure to use a soft toothbrush when you brush your teeth if you have porcelain veneers. Hard-bristled toothbrushes can contribute to the degradation of your veneer’s polish. Try to avoid toothpaste with harsh abrasives, as they can damage your veneers. Your dentist can help you choose the best toothpaste to use on your veneers.
Get veneers at Beyond Infinity Dental
At Beyond Infinity Dental, we use innovative technology to help our patients achieve their dental goals – whether they want a brighter smile or teeth that work better. In order to give you a smile that will make you proud, our team of dentists will take the time to get to understand what you need.
You can always expect to receive the highest quality of care and advice from our dentists. To book your consultation, call us at (02) 8806 3799.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Porcelain vs Composite Veneers: Which Are Better for You?
https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/veneers/composite-veneers-other-options
Healthline.com – What to Know Before You Get Dental Veneers
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-veneers
