Are you unhappy with how your teeth look when you smile? Even when people regularly brush their teeth, maintain oral hygiene and have healthy gums, there can be instances when they’re just not happy with how their teeth are. This can happen because of multiple reasons such as misalignment, decay, discolouration, etc. But the good news is, there’s a way to have a perfect smile, just like how they show it in a toothpaste advertisement. It’s called getting dental veneers.
Teeth veneers may look like a neat magic trick, but they’re certainly a real thing. And it not only enhances your smile but also protects the tooth’s surface! So, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of the types and how veneers are applied to your teeth.
What does veneer mean?
A dental veneer is a thin custom-made shell (sometimes also referred to as a cap) placed over the front surface of your tooth. This type of procedure is normally done for aesthetic purposes whereby your teeth look perfect.
Purpose of Dental Veneers:
- Cosmetic Enhancement: Veneers are primarily used to improve the aesthetics of teeth.
- Visual Flaws: They can hide imperfections such as chips, cracks, stains, and minor misalignments. This is an alternative to teeth straightening or whitening.
- Natural Appearance: Veneers create a more symmetrical, clean, and bright smile.
Types of Dental Veneers
There are two types of dental veneers available in Australia: Porcelain and Composite.
- Porcelain Veneers: These are custom-made shells crafted from porcelain. They provide a natural appearance and are highly durable.
- Composite Veneers: Made from composite resin, these veneers are directly applied to the teeth and can also enhance aesthetics.
How are veneers applied to your Teeth?
The procedure of applying dental veneers can be understood in 3 steps explained below:
- Prepping Teeth for Veneers
- Applying Porcelain or Composite Veneers
- Aftercare for Longevity
Step 1: Prepping Teeth for Veneers
The term “teeth prepped for veneers” refers to the essential preparation phase before veneers are placed. This step significantly impacts the fit, longevity, and appearance of your new smile.
Here’s what happens during this phase:
- Cleaning: Your dentist ensures your teeth are clean and free of any debris.
- Enamel Removal: A thin layer of enamel is gently removed from the front surface of each tooth. This step creates space for the veneer.
- Impressions: Your dentist takes precise impressions of your prepped teeth. These impressions serve as a guide for creating custom veneers in the dental lab.
Step 2 (part 1): Process of Porcelain Veneers Explained
After prepping your teeth, your dentist sends the impressions to a dental lab. Then, skilled technicians create custom porcelain veneers based on these moulds. Once ready, your dentist places the veneers on your prepared teeth using dental cement. After that, the veneers are adjusted for fit and bite alignment.
- Duration: The entire process typically takes around six weeks.
- Lifespan: Porcelain veneers can last up to 15 years with proper care.
Step 2 (part 2): Process of Composite Veneers Explained
Unlike porcelain veneers where you’d have to remove enamel from your teeth, composite veneers do not need enamel to be removed. This is the main difference. The dentist only needs to clean the teeth and then apply composite resin material directly on top of your teeth. Your dentist then shapes and sculpts the composite to achieve the desired appearance. After that, the veneers are then polished and adjusted.
- Duration: Composite veneers can often be completed in one to two visits.
- Lifespan: They typically last around 5 to 7 years.
Step 3: Aftercare for Dental Veneers
Proper aftercare is very important for your dental veneers to ensure longevity and maintain your radiant smile. Here’s how you can take care of them:
Immediate Aftercare (First Week):
- Brush gently and use a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Floss daily
- Use a non-abrasive toothpaste
- Visit your dentist for regular checkups
- Avoid tobacco products at all costs
- Rinse your mouth with water after meals
Long-Term Dental Veneer Care:
- Continue brushing and flossing regularly.
- Get your dental veneers checked regularly by a good dentist in Australia
- Avoid using your teeth as tools and limit stain-causing foods
- Wear a mouthguard when playing sports
- Avoid tobacco products at all costs
Conclusion
Whether porcelain or composite, dental veneers can transform your smile and boost your confidence. So, now that you’re well aware of how veneers are applied to your teeth, are you ready to get your perfect smile? If you are planning to get dental veneers, reach out to our Surrey Hills Dentists via phone or email and let’s begin your endeavour today!
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