45% of the world’s population suffers from some sort of oral disease. Globally, our smiles are often a neglected yet vital part of our overall health.
Everybody wants a whiter smile. And that’s where veneers come in. Placed over the tooth, veneers improve the look and durability of your teeth.
But deciding which option is best can be challenging, and you don’t want to make a permanent decision now that you’ll regret later.
Keep reading to understand what sets different types of veneers apart-and how to make the right choice.
Why Use Dental Veneers?
Also known as porcelain laminates, dental veneers are wafer-thin shells of tooth-colored materials. They’re designed to cover the front surface of the teeth to change their color, shape, size, or otherwise improve their appearance.
Unlike more invasive procedures, dental veneers are subtle, offering a conservative and cost-effective way of changing a tooth’s aesthetics. Generally, they don’t require the shaping work that crowns do, offering a comparable, aesthetically pleasing alternative.
Usually, dental veneers are made from resin or porcelain. Of the two, porcelain veneers are more resistant to staining. Resin veneers, on the other hand, are thinner and less expensive.
Your dentist also won’t need to remove as much of your tooth surface beneath to implant them. However, they don’t blend in alongside your “regular” teeth as well as porcelain veneers do-there’s a tradeoff either way.
The best choice of material will depend on you-and your dentist will help you decide.
Dental Veneers in Cosmetic Dentistry
Veneers are one of the most effective ways of achieving a dramatic smile makeover-and that’s their stated purpose:
To improve the appearance of your teeth and your smile.
They correct a wide range of cosmetic dental issues. If your teeth are discolored, perhaps due to root canal treatment, stains from smoking, or large resin fillings, veneers give you a brighter and whiter smile.
They can also fix worn down, broken, or chipped teeth. That’s because they provide a shell that helps prevent further damage to the tooth.
Addressing Issues With Veneers
Veneers can resolve dental issues-but they won’t address underlying causes. If your dental hygiene regimen is poor, then your veneers won’t keep their pristine shine-just like your teeth; your veneers require care and maintenance.
Ignoring this can lead to problems. Discoloration, chipped teeth, and tooth irregularities can result. Discoloration can happen if your veneers aren’t properly cared for.
To avoid this, you should maintain a good oral hygiene routine. This means brushing twice a day, flossing morning and night, and seeing your dentist for regular check-ups.
And while veneers are durable, they’re not invincible.
Chipped or cracked veneers can result from biting down on hard objects or using your teeth for things you shouldn’t be using them for-like tearing open packages or opening bottles.
Finally, irregularities can occur if your veneers aren’t properly fitted. Sometimes, particularly for younger people, your bite can change over time. Regular dental check-ups ensure your veneers stay in good shape and continue to fit as they should.
Different Types of Veneers
The most common types of dental veneers are porcelain and composite resin, which we mentioned above.
Porcelain veneers are highly durable and resistant to stains. Plus, they look more natural because of how they reflect natural lighting. However, porcelain veneers are also the more expensive option.
Composite resin veneers require less tooth preparation, meaning less time sitting in the dentist’s chair. Typically, they’re applied in a single visit, while porcelain veneers can require multiple appointments.
Lumineers, a less common type of dental veneers, are ultra-thin and designed to be removable. They can be replaced or taken out for cleaning easily, making them an attractive option for somebody who doesn’t want to commit to a permanent procedure.
Choosing Veneers That Suit You
So, how do you choose the veneers that will brighten your smile and boost your confidence?
Choosing the right type of veneer means considering your needs, preferences, and budget. An honest and open talk with your dentist will help you make your choice.
What to Think About
What concrete factors should you think about? You’ll need to consider the durability, cost, potential side effects, and final appearance of the veneers.
The material will determine how durable your veneers are and how well they resist stains. If durability and a more natural appearance are important to you, then porcelain veneers will be your best option.
Side effects when getting veneers are uncommon: Some people may experience sensitivity to hot and cold after getting veneers. In most cases, this subsides after a few days.
Consulting With Your Dentist
Some people feel nervous at the thought of sitting down for a consultation with their dentist.
But they don’t have to. Dentists have these sorts of conversations every day. An honest chat with your dentist will help you understand what you want to achieve.
They will walk you through the types of veneers available, and discuss the pros and cons of each. To determine whether veneers are suitable, your dentist will perform an examination.
Sometimes, they’ll also recommend an X-ray or make impressions of your teeth.
Afterward, your dentist will have a good idea of your situation. Your choice of veneers will then depend on your personal preferences and your dentist’s advice. Once you’ve made a decision, your dentist will prepare your teeth and apply your new veneers.
Following that, all you have to do is take care of your veneers-and your veneers will take care of you in return.
Whiten Your Smile
Choosing between the different types of veneers isn’t a one-size-fits-all ordeal. It’s a matter of preference and taste, and it depends on your dentist’s opinion as much as yours.
But with the right attitude and healthy advice, you can make an informed decision to whiten your smile and brighten your day.
Toccoa Falls Dental provides professional, full-service dentistry in the state of Georgia. We pride ourselves on our dedication to our patients and the relaxed, welcoming environment of our clinic staff. Book an initial consultation today and we’ll discuss how we can fix your smile and boost your confidence.
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