Dental veneers are a popular treatment for covering up chips, cracks, or gaps in the teeth and restoring a healthy smile. They have both functional and cosmetic benefits, and the procedure is fairly quick and easy. If you’re unhappy with your teeth, you may ask yourself: Do I need veneers? The answer depends on your cosmetic and health goals, the state of your teeth, and how comfortable you are with the procedure.
What are dental veneers?
Veneers are thin porcelain shells that attach to the front surface of your teeth. They’re colored and shaped to match your natural teeth, so they don’t look fake or unnatural in any way. Veneers can cover up cracks or chips in your teeth, and they can fill in small gaps between your teeth. They can also change the size or shape of your teeth and make your smile look whiter and healthier.
Do I need veneers?
If you have chipped, cracked, discolored, or misaligned teeth, you may be a candidate for dental veneers. Severe dental issues like cavities or gum decay will need to be corrected before getting veneers, but most minor imperfections can be covered up perfectly with veneers.
What should I expect during the procedure?
Traditional veneers require two dentist appointments. During the first appointment, your dentist will prepare your teeth for the veneers. He or she will remove a small amount of enamel from the surface of your tooth before making an impression of your tooth. Then, your dentist will send this impression to a dental laboratory that will construct the veneer. It can take two to four weeks for your dentist to receive the veneers from the laboratory, so you may have temporary veneers placed on your teeth while you wait.
During the next appointment, your dentist will attach the permanent veneers to your teeth. He or she will trim the veneer and adjust its color until it matches your natural teeth. Then, your tooth will be cleaned and etched to help with the bonding process. Your dentist will attach the veneer with a strong bonding cement and use a light beam to quickly harden up the substance.
Once your veneers are in place, you should take care of them just like you take care of your natural teeth. It’s important to brush and floss every day and to make regular appointments with your dentist to make sure your veneers and your natural teeth are in the best shape possible.
If you’re interested in getting veneers, contact Northview Dental today to speak with a professional. The dentists at Northview Dental have lots of experience with veneers and other dental treatments, and they make sure all of their patients are comfortable and happy with their results. You can call 801-528-9099 with any questions or if you would like to schedule an appointment.