Cosmetic dentistry has come a long way since the days of cumbersome metal braces and painful crowns. Individuals looking to change their smile without gaining some serious hardware may opt for dental veneers. Below, Waterford Dental Health in Waterford, CT, shares a guide to this irreversible treatment to help you understand whether or not dental veneers are right for you.

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are made of porcelain or composite materials and can whiten and brighten the teeth, as well as fill in gaps and address areas where the teeth aren’t aligned properly. Individuals may choose this cosmetic dentistry option to alter the appearance of several teeth instead of choosing braces to straighten a crooked smile or minimize a gap.

Veneers are created with a mold of your existing teeth. You may wear a temporary veneer while the dentist waits for fabrication and delivery of the final version. Some people require local anesthesia for the veneer application as the dentist will remove a small section of tooth enamel before placing the veneer, but not all patients choose to be anesthetized. The veneers are applied directly onto your teeth with the help of an adhesive and then cured with a light for one minute. Afterward, the dentist may use a drill and polishing tools to remove any excess adhesive and ensure the smoothest fit. 

How to Care for Dental Veneers?

Veneers require similar dental hygiene practices to regular teeth. You’ll need to brush and floss as usual, but avoid using toothpaste with fluoride, as it can be damaging. Dark sodas, wine, and coffee may stain veneers over time, as they would regular teeth, so keep this in mind. 

People who want to change their smile with dental veneers should contact their dentist. At an appointment, a professional will talk through the benefits of veneers and ensure you understand the process before creating tooth molds and eventually applying the final veneers. To learn more, call Waterford Dental Health at (860) 447-2235, or visit the website to learn more about porcelain veneers.