If you are looking for a way to restore or improve your smile, you can talk to your dentist about veneers. Dental veneers are tooth-colored shells that dentists attach to the front surface of the patient’s teeth. The natural-looking restorations improve the teeth’s appearance and can treat various dental issues.
Getting Dental Veneers
Manufacturers create dental veneers from porcelain or composite resin materials. Dentists permanently bond the shells onto the tooth. An individual can get veneers on one or several teeth, depending on the issue.
Most people get six to eight veneers on the front teeth to create a symmetrical or even smile. The dentist will remove some of the natural tooth surfaces, depending on the type of veneer.
What Can Dental Veneers Fix
Dental veneers can help to fix various issues, including:
- Discoloration from a root canal or excessive fluoride.
- Chipped or broken teeth.
- Gaps in the teeth.
- Worn-down teeth.
A dentist can examine your teeth to determine if you are an ideal candidate for dental veneers. The dental practitioner will help you choose the best shape, fit, and coloration. It helps to ensure the veneers are perfect for you.
Are Dental Veneers Permanent?
Dental veneers are considered a permanent dental restoration treatment. During the procedure, dentists may need to trim or grind down the tooth to allow for proper placement. The tooth preparation process is irreversible and usually requires local anesthesia.
Removing part of the tooth will depend on the dental issue and the number of teeth involved. For this reason, veneers should be considered a permanent solution. However, the thin shells are applied on the tooth’s surface and usually require replacement after several years.
How Long Do Dental Veneers Last?
The life span of dental veneers depends on various factors, including the type and maintenance. Porcelain veneers can last 10 to 20 years, while composite bonding veneers usually last five to seven years. The duration will differ depending on the individual. Factors that affect veneer life span include:
- Teeth condition before installation.
- Veneer type or material.
- Dental hygiene.
- Teeth grinding.
- Eating hard foods, such as candy and nuts.
- Using the teeth as tools (such as opening bottles or similar tasks).
Choosing Dental Veneers
If you decide to get dental veneers, consider several factors, including cost, veneer type or appearance, the installation process, and veneer longevity. Your dentist can recommend the best veneers for you, depending on your goals and dental condition.
Veneers are less likely to stain than natural teeth, but good oral hygiene is essential. Good maintenance will help your restorations last a long time.
Dental veneers can help to improve an individual’s smile. They can treat various dental issues that affect the appearance of the teeth. You can get veneers if you have severe teeth discoloration that is not fixable with whitening treatment. Depending on the type you choose, your veneers can last a decade or more, making them a good investment.
For more on dental veneers for chipped or discolored teeth, visit Progressive Dental & Associates at our office in Matteson, Illinois. Call 708-980-0110 to book an appointment today.
