If you feel your smile needs “restoring,” the local dentist offers several options, including veneers. Made of composite or porcelain materials, veneers are thin, tooth-colored shells that disguise a variety of smile imperfections. To help determine if these restorations are right for you, learn more about them here. 

4 Frequently-Asked Questions About Dental Veneers

Who is a candidate?

Veneers are used to cover misshapen, gapped, unevenly-spaced, irregularly-spaced, and worn-down teeth. They are also used to cover discolored teeth, such as those stained by tobacco, coffee, red wine, tea, and assorted staining foods like berries, tomato sauce, and soy sauce. Minor chips and cracks in teeth also benefit from veneers, as they cover imperfections and fortify the tooth structures. 

What does the procedure involve?

To prepare teeth for veneers, dentists remove existing tooth material. This avoids bulky, uncomfortable results and provides rough surfaces that allow the bonding agent to adhere completely. Impressions are taken of your mouth to create veneers in a dental lab, during which time you might wear temporary veneers to avoid smile issues. The entire process takes one to two weeks, depending on how quickly the lab can produce the customized tooth restorations. 

Does the process hurt?

The dentist applies a numbing agent to your teeth before removing tooth material with a drill. Patients who have undergone the procedure typically note that they do not experience any pain. Mild tooth sensitivity following the procedure is normal and is usually due to enamel loss. This loss can cause hot and cold food and beverage-related sensitivities, but rarely lasts more than a few days. 

How long do veneers last? 

Veneers can last up to 15 years with the right care before they need replacing. To maintain your veneers, brush and floss normally, which keeps your natural teeth and gums healthy. Underlying tooth decay and gum recession affect wearing veneers and their appearance, respectively. If you grind your teeth during the night, wearing a mouthguard is highly recommended. A quality guard prevents grinding-related pressure that can cause the veneers to fracture and break, allowing you to maintain a beautiful, healthy smile. 

If you believe you are a veneers candidate, talk to Harold R. Arthur D.M.D., P.A. Family Dentistry. Serving Live Oak, FL and the surrounding areas, this renowned dentist provides a full suite of dental services, from routine checkups to dental implants to same-day emergency appointments. Call (386) 330-5181 today to make an appointment or visit the dentist online for more information.