What Problems Can Veneers Correct?
Dentist Burlington, MA
 Veneers are a cosmetic dental procedure. They are thin shells that are placed over the front teeth to improve their appearance. Veneers can be made out of porcelain or resin composite materials which are custom-crafted to mimic your natural teeth. Veneers are used to remedy a variety of cosmetic issues, including damaged, discolored, small-than-average, or chipped teeth. Visit us at Dental Care of Burlington for more details about dental veneers.
What Problems Can Veneers Correct?
Veneers are a versatile treatment option, as they can be used to correct a variety of cosmetic dental issues, including:
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Discoloration: Veneers can effectively mask teeth that are severely stained or discolored, especially when teeth whitening treatments are not effective.
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Stains: Veneers can cover up stains from substances like coffee, tea, red wine, berries, or tobacco that may not respond well to teeth whitening.
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Chipped or Broken Teeth: Veneers can restore the appearance of teeth that are chipped or have minor fractures, making them look whole again.
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Misaligned Teeth: For mildly misaligned teeth, veneers can provide a straighter appearance without the need for orthodontic treatment.
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Gaps Between Teeth: Veneers can close small gaps or spaces between teeth, creating a more uniform smile.
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Uneven Tooth Size or Shape: Veneers can be used to make uneven teeth appear more uniform in size and shape, creating a harmonious smile.
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Worn Down Teeth: Teeth that have been worn down due to grinding or other factors can be restored to their original size and shape with the use of veneers.
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Mild Crowding: In cases of mild tooth crowding, veneers can help create the appearance of straighter teeth without the need for braces.
It's important to note that while veneers can address many cosmetic dental issues, they may not be suitable for all situations. Our dentist will evaluate your specific dental concerns and discuss whether veneers are an appropriate treatment option for you. |
In contrast to crowns, which require greater shaping, veneers simply require minor shaping. The most important advantage of veneers is that they can be used to correct a variety of cosmetic concerns, including chipped teeth, fractured teeth, severe tooth discoloration, strangely shaped teeth, and gaps between teeth. Veneers are long-lasting, lasting up to 10 years.
Procedure for Dental Veneers
We will explain the various types of veneers available during your initial visit. We will assist you in selecting the best veneer for you based on the needs of your teeth and the results you desire. After that, the dentist will evaluate your teeth to see if veneers are a good fit for you. The dentist will take X-rays and impressions of your teeth and send them to our dental laboratory to fabricate your veneers. Your teeth will be prepared to fit your veneers; this includes contouring the tooth surface and trimming the enamel. In the meantime, you will receive temporary veneers.
It will take about four weeks to build your veneers. When you return for your next visit, the dentist will place the veneers on your teeth to make sure they are the right size before firmly cementing them on your teeth. The dentist will polish your tooth by eliminating excess cement and making any other necessary changes. You may have some discomfort before adapting to the veneers, but this will pass with time. You can also feel the roughness of the shells. The rough patches are mostly due to excess cement, but they will fade away after a few days.
How to Look After Your Dental Veneers
After veneer application, avoid chewing or biting hard foods with your front teeth. Always chew food with your molars and premolars, and never use your teeth to open a package. Practice good dental hygiene to keep your teeth and gums clean at all times. If you participate in contact sports, wear a sports mouthguard to protect your teeth and veneers. Furthermore, if you clench or grind your teeth at night, a nightguard will safeguard your shells.
How Long Do Dental Veneers Last?
The longevity of dental veneers can vary depending on several factors, including the type of veneers, your oral hygiene practices, dietary habits, and overall oral health.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are known for their durability and longevity. On average, they can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years or even longer with proper care. Some may last significantly longer, especially if well-maintained.
Composite Resin Veneers
Composite veneers are not as durable as porcelain veneers and generally have a shorter lifespan. They typically last five to seven years but may require more frequent maintenance and touch-ups.
Lumineers
Lumineers are a brand of ultra-thin porcelain veneers. They can last similar to traditional porcelain veneers, with a lifespan of 10 to 15 years or more.
Factors that Impact the Longevity of Dental Veneers
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Oral Hygiene: Maintaining excellent oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups, can significantly extend the life of your veneers.
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Dietary Habits: Avoiding excessive consumption of hard or abrasive foods and refraining from habits like biting on ice or using teeth as tools can help prevent damage to your veneers.
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Teeth Grinding and Clenching: If you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth (bruxism), it can put additional stress on your veneers and may lead to a shorter lifespan. Our dentist may recommend a nightguard to protect your veneers.
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Trauma or Accidents: Accidental trauma to your mouth, such as a fall or injury, can damage or dislodge veneers. Wearing a mouthguard during sports or physical activities can help prevent such incidents.
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Maintaining Regular Check-ups: Visiting Dental Care of Burlington for regular check-ups allows us to monitor the condition of your veneers and address any issues promptly.
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Replacement: Over time, veneers may need to be replaced due to wear and tear or changes in your oral health. We will assess the condition of your veneers during routine visits and recommend replacement when necessary. |
Veneers with Dental Care of Burlington
It's essential to consult with our dental team to determine the best type of veneers for your needs and to receive personalized guidance on how to care for and maintain your veneers to maximize their lifespan. Call us today at 781-362-2260 to book your dental veneer appointment.
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