Veneers can help with tooth sensitivity, making it easier to enjoy hot and cold food!
Your Charlotte dentist will start the consultation by going over any issues you have with your teeth, and discuss how you’d like to improve them. Your dentist will explain how veneers work and together you’ll decide if they are the best option for you.
Your dentist will then create a personalized treatment plan and go over the details with you. The plan will include how many veneers you’ll need and show the teeth that will be addressed. The treatment plan will also outline any other cosmetic or restorative treatments required.
Your dentist will begin preparing your teeth for the procedure. First, your teeth will be cleaned and your mouth numbed so that you don’t experience discomfort. Then a thin layer (0.5mm or less) of enamel will be removed from each tooth. This is necessary for the veneer to attach to your tooth and will prevent it from becoming too thick.
After your teeth are prepped, we will take a series of impressions and pictures of your teeth. The dental lab will use this info to create veneers that will expertly suit your teeth. You’ll receive temporary resin veneers when you leave the office. These will protect your teeth until your permanent veneers are received from the lab.
When we receive your permanent veneers, we will call and ask you to come back to the office for a fitting appointment. During your appointment, your dentist will assure that you are satisfied with the look and feel of your new veneers.
Once the feel and look of your veneers are checked, we will bond them to your teeth by using a powerful dental cement. When the procedure is over, you’ll be ready to head home with your brand-new, beautiful smile.
If you have severe tooth staining or discoloration, veneers are a great option. They offer a permanent solution by completely covering up the stained tooth. This restores your smile back to a bright and natural-looking shade.
Teeth that are worn down from issues like teeth grinding (Bruxism) can be restored with veneers. They are custom-made to restore the shape of your teeth to enhance your smile. If you have chronic issues with teeth grinding, consult with your dentist first as this can damage veneers.
Veneers seamlessly cover your teeth and are often used to remedy minor chipping or breakage. Additionally, they may be used to treat misshapen teeth if you are wanting a straighter, more even smile.
But note that this fix is limited to minor breakage. If you are dealing with a serious tooth injury, you may require a dental crown or root canal therapy. Teeth that are damaged on the outer layers of the enamel can be restored with veneers.
Minor tooth gaps or misalignments can be resolved with veneers. They blend with the teeth, closing any little gaps or imperfections. This gives you a straight, even smile that you won’t be afraid to show off.
Be aware that gaps or misalignments have to be minor for the veneer to fix it. This is because the veneer needs support to bind to the tooth. Your dentist may recommend orthodontic treatment for more serious teeth gaps or misalignments. Invisalign or braces can fix major misalignment issues and may be required before getting veneers.
Porcelain veneers are crafted to match your natural smile shade for a bright, brilliant grin.
Veneers cannot be removed because they are permanently bonded to your tooth. Veneers require the thin layer of enamel to be ground down which makes this an irreversible procedure. Proper care of your veneers is important and they may need to be replaced if they break or become dislodged.
Veneers can last for decades if they are properly taken care of. Generally, if patients maintain the quality of their veneers, they can last for up to 20 years. The lifespan is determined by how well you take care of them. Individual veneers may need to be replaced as they wear down over time.
To extend the life of your veneers, it’s important to consistently brush after every meal and floss every day. Chewing hard foods or opening things with your teeth can dislodge your veneers so be careful. Routinely go to the dentist every six months for a teeth cleaning and oral exam. Incorporating good oral care is the best way to maintain your veneers for as long as possible.
Veneers are crafted out of ceramic porcelain materials. Porcelain is similar to enamel because it’s sturdy and translucent. This makes them look and feel just like your natural tooth. Additionally, the exact color of your teeth can be matched with porcelain, complementing the rest of your smile.
Some veneers are made out of composite resin. These are typically a temporary placeholder before you get your permanent veneers. However, some prefer composite resin veneers because they are less invasive to your natural teeth.
The main difference between veneers and Lumineers is that Lumineers are much thinner than traditional veneers. This is due to them being crafted out of different materials. Lumineers are made out of a proprietary ceramic material that is only about 0.2mm thick. On the other hand, traditional veneers are 0.5mm thick, requiring the removal of enamel to fit your tooth. Some may prefer the thin nature of Lumineers because they can be placed without trimming the enamel. They are often referred to as “no-prep” or “minimal-prep” veneers.
The cost of veneers is determined by various factors. This includes the amount of teeth you are covering up, your oral health, and the location of each tooth. Since veneers typically fall under cosmetic procedures, insurance generally doesn't cover veneer placements, but feel free to call your insurance for more information. Ultimately, your dentist can assess these factors and will provide a quote for you during your consultation.
Veneers can last between 15 and 20 years with proper care.