Who among us doesn’t dream of having a bright, perfectly-aligned smile? Unfortunately, for individuals with discolored, misshapen, or misaligned teeth, the dream of a radiant smile can feel out of reach.
Fortunately, dental veneers offer a non-invasive path to a beautiful smile!
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are thin shells, custom-made out of porcelain or composite resin, that are bonded to the fronts of discolored, misaligned, or misshapen teeth to improve their appearance. With proper care and good oral hygiene, composite veneers can last for up to ten years, while strong porcelain veneers can last twice that long!
It is worth noting that veneers are only a cosmetic solution and don’t address problems like gum disease or tooth decay beneath them. Anyone suffering from an underlying dental issue should receive treatment before getting veneers.
How Are Dental Veneers Placed?
The process for placing dental veneers includes a few steps. First, a small amount of enamel is removed from the front of the teeth. After this, impressions of the teeth are taken so that the veneers can be customized. At this point, the dentist may place temporary veneers until permanent veneers are made in a dental laboratory.
Once the permanent veneers are ready, the dentist ensures proper fit and aesthetics, bonds them to the teeth using a dental adhesive, cures the adhesive using a special light, and polishes the veneers, leaving the patient with a beautiful smile!
It’s extremely important to note that while veneers can be replaced if necessary, the removal of tooth enamel (which neither regenerates nor is replicable through artificial means) during the fitting process is irreversible. It’s thus vital that anyone considering veneers consult with a dental professional before any procedure.
How To Make Veneers Last As Long As Possible
To ensure the longevity of veneers, it's important to brush twice daily with a non-abrasive toothpaste, floss daily, and schedule regular dental checkups. Additionally, to maximize the lifespan of veneers, habits like biting or chewing on hard objects (pens, fingernails) and excessively grinding or clenching your teeth should be addressed.
Porcelain Veneers in Garland, TX
If you are in the Garland area and would like to learn more about dental veneers, contact dentist Dr. Woo Sung Jung and the Garland Grove Dentistry team to schedule a consultation appointment!