Dental veneers are an ideal way to quickly change the look of your smile, with the added benefit of protecting the health of your teeth and gums. Placing dental veneers is a minimally invasive and relatively quick procedure that can drastically boost your confidence. If you’re currently unhappy with your smile, call your dentist today. With healthy teeth and gums, you can begin the process of placing veneers, achieving the smile that you’ve wanted.
However, before getting dental veneers, it is helpful to know what they do and what you can expect during the process. Learn more about this common dental procedure, then reach out to your family dentist today.
The Purpose of Dental Veneers
What do dental veneers do? Veneers are thin, tooth-colored shells that cover the front of the teeth, giving a more uniform look to your smile. The coverings look like natural teeth and are designed to match your existing ones, or they can be designed to create an entirely new smile.
Many people with chipped or worn teeth opt for veneers to cover their imperfections. Alternatively, some individuals choose veneers to simply fill in gaps in their smile.
Dental veneers are also used to cover stained teeth that cannot be whitened. While some surface stains that result from food or beverage choices can easily be removed, discoloration from age or oral health issues may not change. In this case, veneers are an effective option for a bright, white smile.
How Dental Veneers Can Give You an Even, Bright Smile
What can you expect during the process of placing dental veneers? This painless procedure can typically be completed in just one to two appointments. What happens during the dental veneers procedure depends on the type of veneers your dentist recommends.
The two most common options include:
- Porcelain veneers – Typically, porcelain veneers are made in a lab and can be custom-made to fit your smile.
- Composite veneers – These can quickly be made in-office and are made of resin that is applied to the tooth.
Veneers are applied to existing healthy teeth. To prep the teeth, your dentist might slightly reshape the tooth. The thickness of the veneer is about the amount that the dentist might need to remove. If you’re getting porcelain veneers, your dentist will work with a laboratory to have them crafted specifically for you. While you wait for the veneers to come back, your dentist may give you a temporary set. When they come in, a special cement is used to adhere the veneer to the tooth.
Composite veneers can be applied to the teeth at your dentist’s office without having to work with an external laboratory. Your dentist can mold the resin to your tooth, achieving the desired shape.
Veneers are endlessly customizable, which is one reason why they’re such a popular option. Your dentist can make them as white as you’d like, as well as use them to cover any blemish within your smile.
Cosmetic Dentistry and More at Columbia Smiles
Looking for dental veneers, teeth whitening, and other cosmetic dentistry services? Columbia Smiles offers a variety of general and cosmetic dentistry services for Howard County and beyond. Discover why we’ve been rated Best Dental Practice 19 times by Howard Magazine. Connect with our team today to schedule an appointment.
In our dental practice, you’ll find a comfortable, welcoming environment and a team of dental professionals committed to making every appointment as easy as possible.
Don’t settle for a smile you don’t love. If dental veneers are right for you, our team will work with you to design the look you want. Contact Columbia Smiles today at 410.690.4855 or reach out online to learn more.
