Are you considering a smile makeover? Cosmetic dentistry has become increasingly more popular, and treatment plans range from home teeth whitening to creating a brand-new smile with veneers. For many, veneers are an ideal way to improve their smile relatively quickly. They can be a solution to cosmetic and functional problems such as spaces between teeth, broken, crooked or worn teeth, and even discoloration. If you’ve always wondered whether or not veneers could be the right solution for you, read on to learn more about these tried and true cosmetic devices.
Material
There are two types of veneers: porcelain (or ceramic) and composite resin (or “plastic”). Both function similarly, as thin shells which are permanently bonded to the teeth in order to improve position, shape, shade, and the general appearance of your smile. Choosing between the two types of veneers depends on the goal of your treatment. Do you want to make small or major changes? For small changes in shape, such as reshaping after orthodontics, repairing fractures, or closing gaps, composite resin may be the best choice. This material is moderate in durability and is tooth colored. Composite veneers are a faster process than porcelain, as well. They can be made and placed by your dentist in as little as one visit.
Though porcelain veneers take longer to make and fit, they have their own benefits. These veneers are highly durable and more resistant to stains and chips. If you are looking to make major changes to your smile, porcelain veneers might be the better option for you. They are made in a laboratory and very closely mimic the look of a natural tooth. Once the technician in the dental lab has finished making the veneers, your dentist will fit them for you at a later appointment.
Durability
Veneers are also incredibly durable, lasting on average from 10 to up to 25 years. Each case is different and this timeframe will depend on a number of factors, including decay and care. Chips can occur in ceramic veneers, just as normal teeth can. Chips or wear are usually caused by trauma or too much pressure, such as grinding or clenching. A mouthguard will protect your veneers the same way it can your actual teeth.
Appearance
Generally speaking, veneers keep up aesthetic very well. However, over time as we age, gums may recede. This creates a space between the gum and where the veneer was originally bonded to the tooth. Staining is also a possibility with veneers over time. Sometimes veneers can become obvious if a patient only has a veneer on a single tooth (to remedy a chipped tooth, for example). It is possible that the original teeth will age differently than the veneer, creating color discrepancies between them. Whitening your original teeth or changing the veneered tooth are both options to create uniform color again.
Advanced Family Dental & Orthodontics is here to help with your unique smile needs. Make an appointment with one of our qualified dentists at our Shorewood dental office, Crest Hill Orthodontics, or any of our locations, including our cosmetic dentist in Frankfort, Illinois, to learn how veneers can benefit you today.