Cosmetic dentists utilize dental veneers as a means of helping patients create a beautiful and functionally sound smile. Veneers are considered indirect restorations, as they are fabricated at a qualified dental laboratory and then cemented or bonded onto the tooth.
Types of veneers and high recommedation
The two most commonly used veneers are composite and porcelain. Although more expensive, porcelain provides esthetically pleasing results using durable long-lasting material. As a result, cosmetic dentists generally recommend porcelain in order to provide patient’s with optimal results.
Veneers and white composite fillings may be used in tandem in generating a pleasing smile. For instance, composite filling material may be used to fix or restore cracked teeth, chipped or damaged teeth . TThese concerns tend to be more minor and easier to remedy with a composite filling that is directly bonded to the tooth; this process protects the tooth and provides support for the tooth structure. Additionally, composite fillings are tooth-colored and virtually indistinguishable from tooth enamel.
Cosmetic dentists will use composite fillings for slight alterations or improvements, but for more major dental concerns such as spaces, misalignment, larger chips/cracks, severe wear and tear, enamel concerns or discoloration, dental veneers serve as a superb alternative. Composite fillings aren’t designed for more major dental concerns; therefore, dental veneers are the optimal remedy for issues that involve greater tooth damage.
Both veneers and composite fillings can enhance the color and shade of the patient’s teeth; cosmetic dentists often employ both tools in lightening and brightening a patient’s smile. Although tooth whitening is a recognizable alternative, it is important to note that whitening can only lighten the teeth according to the unique reaction that each individual has to the bleach. Ultimately, with dental bleaching, there are no guarantees regarding the resulting shade. Patients with major discoloration concerns or those seeking dramatic results will often choose laser whitening techniques or dental veneers to manifest their desired white shade.
For those with simple concerns such as minor misalignment and discoloration, dental veneers may not necessarily prove to be essential. In such cases, cosmetic dentists may diagnose orthodontics and bleaching in order to preserve as much of the patient’s healthy tooth structure as possible.
Individuals who suffer from more major concerns than those listed above will experience numerous benefits from the use of dental veneers. A veneer is a shell that is shaped to an ideal tooth-like finish and fitted over the existing tooth structures after they’ve been prepared. The underlying tooth structures are therefore permanently altered in order to cement the veneers, so it is important for patients to recognize whether their case warrants treatment such as veneers. Depending on the case, cosmetic dentists find that placing the porcelain veneer prevents further damage and wear on the teeth.
After the procedure has been completed, it is important for patients to learn how to maintain their dental veneers. Remember, the actual veneer is a thin porcelain covering placed on the existing tooth structure; veneers will only wear as well as the patient who cares for them. The dental office will explain how best to brush, floss and maintain dental veneers in order to enhance the longevity of the patient’s new smile. In some cases, dietary habits may need adjustments (such limiting biting into apples, hard foods, ice and carrots). Others may need a night guard to protect the teeth against grinding or clenching (the dental term is bruxing).
Patients who do opt for veneers have usually suffered from life-long concerns regarding their smile. Cosmetic dentists employ veneers to reinforce the strength and durability of tooth enamel, giving the patient the double gift of greater dental health and an appealing, younger smile. Dental veneers have been known to drastically alter the lives of patients for the better by alleviating concerns that may have been otherwise untreatable.
