What are Veneers and How Do They Work?

Do you want to improve the appearance of your smile whilst also boosting the health of your teeth? One of the most effective ways of doing this is by using dental veneers. Many people have heard of dental veneers, but they don’t really understand what they are, how they work and the benefits that they can offer patients. This cosmetic and functional dental treatment is now more popular than ever, and a key element in many smile transformations. Here’s what you need to need to know to help you decide if they might be an option to help you achieve the smile that you have been dreaming of.

 

What are Veneers?

Veneers are custom-designed and manufactured thin shells, usually made of porcelain, that is bonded to the front surface of a tooth. Their application serves a number of different purposes. Veneers can successfully be used to:

• Cover stains and discoloration

• Cover minor cracks and chips

• Improve the appearance of teeth that are misshapen

• Add thickness to teeth that are set back from the rest

• Add height to undersized teeth

• Close gaps between the teeth where orthodontic treatment is unsuitable or too severe

Each veneer is created specifically in the shape, size, and color needed to cover the tooth in question. This ensures that the cover looks as natural as possible. The porcelain finish enables the veneer to have the same light-reflecting qualities of natural teeth, whilst also being stain-resistant, helping you to maintain a healthy-looking and attractive smile for longer.

Health Benefits of Veneers

Veneers are predominantly considered to be a cosmetic treatment. This is because of the cover of the front surface of the tooth in order to hide imperfections and improve the appearance of the smile. However, they can also have some functional/health benefits. This is because gaps between the teeth and around them can be difficult to clean properly with a toothbrush. Since it is easy for food debris and bacteria to get trapped there, this puts people at increased risk of decay and gum disease. Closing these gaps reduces this risk. Veneers may be thin, but they do add an additional layer of protection to your natural teeth, helping them to remain in great condition for as long as possible.

 

The Application Process for Veneers

The application process for veneers is very simple and can usually be performed in just two visits to your dentist’s offices. During the first, impressions of the teeth that are to be covered are taken which will be used to design and manufacture your veneers. During the second, the teeth that are to be covered will be prepared and the veneer fitted. The preparation process, which is carried out using a local anesthetic, involves filing down some of the natural tooth enamel so that the veneer fits perfectly. Enamel cannot regenerate, so once this process begins it cannot be reversed. The fit of the veneer is then checked, and it is secured in place using adhesive. Finally, the veneer is polished, and the treatment is concluded.

If you would like to find out more about veneers, or if you would like to schedule a consultation to see if you are a good candidate for this transformative procedure, please get in touch with Today's Family Dental in Tampa, FL where our team would be delighted to assist you.