Everything You Need to Know About the Veneers Process
What are dental veneers? Do I have to be sedated during the veneer process? Why do I need dental veneers? Get these questions answered and more.
In 2018, the global cosmetic dentistry industry had an estimated value of $18.79 billion. What's more, market experts say that this will further grow to $32.73 billion come 2026!
Dental veneers remain among the top contributors to this growth. In fact, North American dentists alone perform 599,000 veneer applications each year!
The big question is, what are dental veneers? What is the veneers process and why would you want to consider undergoing it?
We'll answer all these questions in this post, so be sure to stick around!
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are wafer-thin shells of either porcelain or resin composite materials. They cover the teeth's front surface. Dentists use dental bonding materials to secure these custom-made shells onto the teeth.
Since veneers go on top of the teeth, they can change and improve the color and shape of the teeth. They can even alter the length and size of abnormally-small or irregularly-shaped teeth!
Dental veneers also come in two main types: porcelain and resin composite. According to research, porcelain veneers deliver excellent aesthetic outcomes. Resin veneers are still a good option, but the porcelain ones far outlast them.
Moreover, porcelain veneers reflect light in almost the same way as natural teeth. This is why they're more aesthetic than the composite kind. In addition, they're more resistant to stains than resin veneers.
Do note that porcelain veneers involve an irreversible application process. You can, on the other hand, have resin composite veneers removed or replaced at any time.
What Problems Do Dental Veneers Fix?
In a 2015 ADA study, 20% of US adults said that their poor oral health has made their life "less satisfying". About 28% of young adults even admitted that the state of their oral health has affected their chances for a job!
One of the most common culprits behind poor oral health is tooth decay, which 90% of US adults have had. On top of that is periodontal disease , which often results from untreated tooth decay.
Either way, these problems can weaken the teeth, which then makes them prone to chipping. Tooth decay can also cause stains. Left untreated, they will lead to tooth loss, forcing the rest of the teeth to shift and develop gaps.
Veneers, as a sort of protective cover, can help correct many of these after-effects of tooth decay. In fact, fixing up these issues is the main reason people get them!
Veneers can help with super stubborn stains that even the best teeth whitening can't get rid of. To help make your teeth more stain-resistant, consider going for porcelain veneers.
If you've had an accident that chipped or broke off a section of a tooth, a veneer can fix that damaged area. You can also get veneers for teeth that are too small or have gaps between them. Not only will they make your teeth look better without the spaces -- they can also help prevent shifting.
The Veneers Process
How are veneers put on?
The veneers process usually takes two to three dental visits -- the first is for the check-up and diagnosis. The remaining visits are for the tooth preparation and the placement of the veneers.
Initial Consultation
During this phase, you'll share your concerns with your cosmetic dentist in Laurel. Be honest with the dentist on what your dental goals are and what exactly you want to correct. The dentist will then give you a full check-up to determine if dental veneers are your best choice.
One alternative that you may be a good candidate for is Lumineers. They're much like veneers, but they require less preparation and fewer dental visits. They're not for everyone though, which is why the first dental check-up is very important.
If veneers are really your best option, you and your dentist can then go ahead with the tooth preparation.
Tooth Surface Preparation
The placement of veneers requires the removal of a very small amount of enamel. It would be almost as thin as your veneers. Don't worry -- you can tell your dentist to use anesthetic if you want the process to be 100% painless.
After reshaping and preparing your tooth, your dentist will then take a mold of your teeth. The mold will go to a dental lab for analysis. It's also during this time that your dental veneers will undergo construction.
This part may take a few days to a couple of weeks, so your dentist may also have you wear temporary veneers.
Bonding of the Dental Veneers
Your dentist will temporarily place the veneers on your teeth to ensure that they have a perfect fit. Your dentist may have to make minor adjustments to the veneers, such as trimming them a few times. Once they're perfect, your teeth will then undergo a thorough cleaning and polishing.
Your dentist will also etch your teeth. This helps to increases the adherence and effectiveness of the bonding material. Speaking of which, this is a special cement that goes on the underside of the veneer.
Once properly placed on your teeth, your dentist will direct a light beam on the veneers. This triggers the chemicals in the bonding material to activate. As a result, the cement hardens and cures faster.
Your dentist will then remove any excess cement and check your bite. If everything's great, then that's it! Feel free to flash your better-looking smiles right after this final step.
Get Those Chips and Stains out of Your Pearly Whites
There you have it, all the answers to your question, “what are dental veneers?" Now that you know more about it and what the veneers process entails, you can decide if it's right for you. If you have badly-stained or chipped teeth, veneers are something you should consider.
Ready to find out more about dental veneers and if they really are the best treatment option for you? Then please know that Garland K Davis , DDS in Laurel, MD offers dental veneers services! Please feel free to contact our dental office now to learn more about our treatments!