More than half of all Americans are insecure about the appearance of their teeth. Are you one of them?
You deserve to be proud of your smile, but it's not always easy. Porcelain veneers might be the perfect solution for you.
We're here with a brief guide on porcelain veneers so you can be prepared before
your consultation. Read on to learn more.
Porcelain veneers are kind of like "shields" that go over your natural teeth. For the most part, they're aesthetic, but some people also choose to use them for minor dental issues.
Veneers look and feel like natural teeth, but better. They're paper-thin, so you shouldn't be able to feel a significant difference in your mouth after they're placed. Many people won't notice that you have veneers, just that your teeth look fantastic.
Porcelain veneers can last for up to two decades, making them a fantastic long-term solution for a variety of dental concerns.
Porcelain veneers can be pricey, so you might be wondering how they can actually benefit you as a patient. Yes, they look great, but what makes them worth the cost?
Here are a few benefits of porcelain veneers.
Chipping or cracking your visible teeth can be a nightmare. Not only is it an aesthetic problem, but it can also lead to potential dental problems in the future.
Veneers are one option for people who want to repair cracks and chips. You can get a single veneer for a single cracked tooth or a full mouth of veneers.
While getting veneers isn't a restorative dental procedure, it can still provide protection. Because the dentist has to file down your enamel to place the veneers, they can file away the crack or chip.
After the shield is placed, your tooth is protected.
They're also great for significant discoloration. Not all discoloration is fixable with standard teeth whitening. Dark stains have to be covered.
Veneers are the perfect solution for otherwise healthy teeth with significant discoloration. No one will ever know that you had stains on your teeth.
There are some issues that are hard to fix with conventional dental care methods. For example, if you feel like your teeth are too large or too small, there aren't many options to fix that.
Veneers, however, can fix it.
While there will be some limitations (the size of your mouth, for example), a good dentist will be able to visibly enlarge or shrink your teeth.
So what about aesthetic dental problems that are fixable through conventional methods? For example, yellow teeth are fixable with teeth whitening services. Slight gaps or crowding are fixable with braces.
The unfortunate fact of the matter is that conventional methods take time. If you need significant whitening, it will take several sessions. Braces or aligners, even for simple issues, will take months.
You can have dental veneers several weeks after your initial appointment.
There's a running joke that veneers always look fake and "too perfect," but this isn't the case if you go to a great cosmetic dentist. Your veneers can look identical to natural teeth.
While some people prefer the "too perfect" look, it's not necessary.
Porcelain veneers also feel natural once you get used to them. You shouldn't have any trouble talking, eating, or cleaning your teeth.
The process of getting veneers is fairly straightforward, but it does require several appointments.
First, you'll have a consultation with the best dentist in Methuen, MA. They'll evaluate your situation and help you determine whether or not veneers are the right solution for you. They may have other recommendations or require that you improve your oral health before you start the veneers process.
During this consultation, they may take an impression of your mouth and teeth and take x-rays.
During your next appointment, the dentist will file down about a half-millimeter of enamel from your teeth. They'll then take another impression so they can start to create your custom veneers. You should receive your veneers within the month, but times vary (discuss this with your dentist first if it's a concern).
When the veneers arrive, the dentist will make sure that they fit your teeth. They'll make any necessary adjustments to create the perfect fit.
They'll etch your teeth to make it easier for the veneers to stick. They'll then cement the veneers in place and use a special light to harden them.
You may need a follow-up appointment, but you'll leave the dentist's office with a bright new smile.
It's normal to experience some sensitivity right after getting your veneers, but this will pass. Avoid foods that are very hot or cold for a few days while you recover.
Beyond that, you can treat your veneers just like your normal teeth. Make sure that you're still following your dental hygiene habits (brushing and flossing).
As with your natural teeth, avoid foods and drinks that can stain your teeth (or at least brush after you consume them). You can't get veneers whitened.
If you're ready to fix aesthetic dental issues in a matter of weeks, porcelain veneers might be right for you. You'll get a superstar smile that will last for decades (and the confidence that comes with it).
It's time to contact a dentist in Methuen, MA, for your consultation. At Branch Street Dental, we can evaluate your situation and help you determine if veneers are right for you.
