Dental veneers - also known as laminates - are used to improve the aesthetic appearance of one or more teeth. They are attached to the surface of teeth to reshape broken, misshapen or irregular teeth as well as provide a solution for discolored teeth that do not respond to traditional whitening treatments.
Patients with veneers usually achieve naturally appearing teeth that are well tolerated by the gums and also resistant to future stains.
Did you know ...
that dental veneers are a conservative way to completely transform your smile? In fact, the sheets are output to the cosmetic procedure that has become popular among celebrities who want a brighter and a more symmetrical smile. Miley Cyrus, Hilary Duff and Ben Affleck are few of the Hollywood elite who have seen a cosmetic dentist for these procedures. Fortunately, affordability and accessibility make it easy for anyone to get dental veneers - including patients.
A veneer is a thin shell that is made of porcelain or ceramic. It is made in exact shade and shape to match and blend with your existing teeth seamlessly. Some use veneers to protect their tooth that has been broken, cracked or chipped while others are looking to create a Hollywood smile. Dental veneers and laminates can also be used to restore the tooth to its full functionality. Veneers can only be used when the tooth structure is intact. It is an excellent way to give a makeover to a damaged tooth without feeling any discomfort while speaking or eating.
The cost of conventional veneers can vary between $ 500 and $ 1,900 per tooth, while the price of Lumineers can range from $ 800 to $ 2,000 per tooth. There are many factors that influence how patients pay for dental veneers, which can be made from porcelain and resin composite materials.
Traditional Veneers are typically about 0.5 millimeters thick, while Lumineers are typically 0.3 mm thick. Most patients and dentists prefer the Lumineers over traditional veneers because they are thinner and easier to place on the teeth. However, due to their thin sheet like structure there may be difficulty for Lumineers to mask discolored teeth. If your teeth are heavily stained, veneers may be a better choice over Lumineers. Because Lumineers cover the surface of the existing tooth, you will notice that your tooth is thicker. You may find it more difficult to clean your gum line, which can be put at greater risk of gum disease. If you choose traditional veneers, your dentist soften the tooth for better fit.
Generally, it takes about one to two weeks after your dentist creates the mold to get the veneers customized. Once the veneers are in, you can schedule an appointment to have them fixed. During the session, the dentist evaluates the fit, form and color to make sure they are right for you. Post fixation your teeth are cleaned thoroughly. This is an important step to prevent the bacteria from getting stuck below the veneer that might cause decay. Next, the dentist will use a grinding tool to create a rough texture on each tooth where the veneer needs to be fixed. The abrasive surface helps the veneer to stick properly and blend in seamlessly with other teeth. Then your dentist uses a dental cement to bind the veneer to the tooth. Later, ultraviolet light is used to harden this rapid cement, and there – your new smile is ready to go!
Veneers typically last between 7 and 15 years. Post this duration, the veneers would need to be replaced.
There is no special care needed for dental veneers. Dentists recommend to follow good oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash as you normally would.