Dental veneers are a popular choice for those wanting to quickly change the appearance of their teeth. They are thin covers that are attached to the tooth’s visible surface. Veneers are designed to hide issues giving the appearance of more classically shaped teeth. Looking for dental veneer services in Columbia, Maryland? Contact Dr. Michael Hsu of Columbia Smiles today by calling 410.690.4855 or reaching out to our team online.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are designed to look like natural teeth. If you want to improve your smile, dental veneers are a simple option that a cosmetic dentist can offer. Veneers are typically made of either composite resin material or porcelain. Your dentist will help you choose the material that is best for you. Options include:
- Porcelain: This material is the most aesthetically pleasing. It is also the longest-lasting and the strongest of all veneer options. Porcelain laminate veneers rarely injure the gum tissues and other soft tissues in the mouth. However, they’re also a more expensive option.
- Composite resin: Composites are a mixture of inorganic and organic materials. They include a coupling agent, the initiator, resin and filler, which is the primary inorganic material in composite veneers. While strong, composite veneers are not as durable as porcelain and can stain over time.
There is also a type of porcelain laminate shell used in certain brands of veneers that makes the procedure reversible and less expensive. Also, some veneers are meant to be temporary or removable—they’re called snap-on or clip-on veneers and are very affordable—but they’re not meant to be a long-term dental solution.
Do Dental Veneers Hurt?
Now that you know what dental veneers are, you may be wondering if it hurts when they’re placed on your teeth. The dental procedure is minimally invasive, and most patients report feeling little discomfort or pain during this specific dental treatment.
What does “minimally invasive” mean? Porcelain and composite resin veneers are applied after some preparation. The dentist may remove a thin layer of enamel from the teeth that are going to be covered. This layer of enamel is equal in thickness to the veneer, and it’s removed to ensure a seamless fit. This removal can be done under a local anesthetic. Keep in mind that this layer is so thin that there should be no pain.
Your teeth may feel a little sensitive after they have been prepped for veneers. However, this feeling is temporary and will go away after the dental veneers are placed.
When Should You Consider Dental Veneers?
Since the procedure of applying dental veneers doesn’t hurt, and they improve the overall appearance of a smile, they’re recommended by general and cosmetic dentists for people struggling with varying conditions. These include:
- Broken, chipped, or cracked teeth
- Discolored and stained teeth which can’t be fixed with whitening products
- Gaps between front upper teeth
- Misaligned, irregularly shaped, or uneven teeth
- Worn down teeth due to bruxism
In general, dental veneers can improve your smile. Yet, getting veneers doesn’t mean that you can stop taking care of your teeth. You need to see your dentist regularly for checkups, at least twice a year. In addition, it’s critical that brushing and flossing teeth, and using a fluoride rinse afterward, is part of your daily routine. You must also refrain from chewing ice or hard candies and not use your teeth to open bags of snacks.
Ready To Learn More About Columbia Smiles’ Dental Veneer Service?
If you’re searching for dental veneer service in Columbia, Maryland, contact xDr. Michael Hsu of Columbia Smiles today. Call 410.690.4855 or reach out to our team online.
