All about Dental Veneers How to Use Them

Thanks to modern technology in dentistry, nothing should stop you from getting the smile of your dreams. Whether your teeth are stained, cracked, crooked, or chipped, your dentist can help. If you only have minor teeth damage, your dentist can repair your smile with dental veneers.

What are Dental Veneers?

Teeth veneers are thin tooth-colored shells bonded to the front of teeth to repair damage and improve their appearance. Your Easton dentist might recommend dental veneers to address:

• Stained or discolored teeth that won’t respond to teeth bleaching. These stains result from tooth decay, certain medications, excess fluoride, and large resin fillings.
• Worn-down teeth. Due to teeth grinding and clenching, acidic items, and decay, your teeth can wear down.
• Misaligned, misshapen, or uneven teeth
• Minor teeth gaps
• Minor dental damages like chips, breaks, and cracks

Types of Dental Veneers

Based on your condition, budget, and preferences, you can use the following type of dental veneers:

• Porcelain Veneers – They are the most popular type of veneer material. They are crafted from porcelain, giving them great aesthetics, durability, and strength. Porcelain veneers also resist staining and require two appointments to fit. Once fitted, they look and feel like a natural tooth.
• Composite Veneers. These veneers are a composite resin material. They are applied directly onto the damaged tooth in a single appointment. While cheaper, composite veneers are less versatile and durable than porcelain veneers. They are for temporary purposes.
• Lumineers. A Lumineer is a thinner type of traditional veneer. Bonding the Lumineer requires less to no teeth shaving, reversing the treatment.

Dental Veneers Procedure

The dental veneer process is quick, affordable, and straightforward. If you’re considering veneers, you should begin by scheduling a consultation with our dentist to determine if you’re eligible for the treatment. During the consultation, the dentist will inspect your teeth, discuss your needs, and design a treatment plan to give you the kind of smile you want.

Once the dentist has established your candidacy for veneers, you’ll get an appointment for the procedure. The dentist will begin by shaving a small portion of the damaged tooth’s enamel at this appointment. It allows the veneer to fit perfectly and give the tooth a natural appearance.

Next, the dentist will make impressions of your teeth and send them to a dental lab to customize your veneer. A temporary veneer places to protect the tooth while waiting for the customized veneer.

Once ready, the dentist will call you for the fitting procedure. The dentist will remove the temporary veneers and test the permanent veneer’s shade, shape, and fit. If everything is as expected, the dentist will bond the veneer on your tooth using a stronger dental cement.

Dental Veneers Aftercare

Following a dental veneer procedure, it’s normal to experience minimal sensitivity and soreness around the treated area. Fortunately, these effects should pass within a few days. Also, your dentist will give you a few tips to promote faster healing and extend the lifespan of your veneer teeth, including:

Immediately after the procedure

• Take medication as prescribed.
• Use an ice pack on the cheek.
• Eat a soft diet like eggs, yogurt, and soups. Avoid hard, crunchy, chewy, and sticky items.
• Avoid staining habits like smoking and eating highly pigmented items.
• Avoid hot or spicy things to prevent irritation and sensitivity.
• Brush and floss gently around the bonded tooth.
• Rinse regularly with saltwater.

Long-term Aftercare

• Brush at least twice daily.
• Floss at least once daily.
• Avoid damaging habits like chewing pens and nails.
• Avoid smoking.
• Avoid abrasive oral products.
• Schedule frequent dental assessments and cleanings.
• Wear a mouthguard for bruxism and sports.
• Avoid smoking, acidic, and highly colored items.

How Long Do Veneers Last?

Dental veneers will serve you for many years with proper oral care and habits. Porcelain veneers typically last for about 10 – 15 years, while composite veneers only last 5 – 7 years.

Over time, your veneers can get damaged or wear down, making your tooth susceptible to decay and other damage. If your veneer isn’t in perfect condition, it’s time you contact your dentist for a replacement.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Contact Maple Tree Dental to book your appointment today for more information about dental veneers in Easton, PA.