When you go to the dentist and have minor cosmetic flaws with your teeth, dental veneers may be recommended to restore a natural, healthy appearance. For you to make an informed decision about what’s right for your teeth, you should know the basics about veneers and how they’ll impact your dental health. To make your decision easier, here are some answers to the most commonly asked questions. 

Common Questions About Dental Veneers

What are they made of?

A veneer is a thin sliver of porcelain — or, in some cases, composite resin — that’s applied to the front of your teeth and cemented in place. A porcelain veneer is preferable, as it has a more natural appearance and resists stains better than other materials.

What are they used for?

Veneers can remedy minor dental flaws. Discolorations, unusual tooth shape or size, and small cracks, chips, and gaps in teeth are all common reasons to get a veneer. Your dentist will need to examine your teeth during a consultation to make sure the flaw isn’t serious before recommending the procedure. 

How are they applied?

After your consultation, you’ll have an appointment to apply a temporary veneer. During this appointment, your tooth will be cleaned and a small portion of enamel will be removed to make room for the veneer. Your dentist will take a mold of your tooth’s surface and send it to a lab for the creation of your custom veneer. A temporary veneer will be placed on the tooth until the permanent one is ready. When it is, the temporary one is removed. Your tooth is etched to create a better surface for adhesion, and then the permanent veneer is cemented in place. Once it’s cured, the veneer will be given realistic details and your dentist will file away any excess material.

Do they hurt?

Most patients experience little to no discomfort during the procedure. The only part that might cause slight sensitivity is the removal of enamel, but if you or your dental professional are concerned, a local anesthetic can be used to prevent discomfort. There is no real healing process or downtime required with a veneer, either, making it a fast, painless solution for achieving a luminous smile.

How long do they last?

When properly applied, a quality veneer can last upwards of five years, with no special maintenance required. If an accident occurs, the veneer may chip or crack. Once the veneer breaks or begins to loosen, it will need to be replaced to protect the tooth where enamel was removed.

For more information on dental veneers or to find out if you’re a candidate for the procedure, turn to Gladstein Dental Center in New Britain, CT. The family dentistry practice specializes in veneer application, cosmetic dentistry, TMJ treatments, crowns, dental implants, periodontal disease management, dentures, and more. Their dentist genuinely cares about his patients and makes it a point to provide them with all the information they need to make informed decisions about their oral health. Whether your child needs a cleaning or you need TMJ treatment, their team will cater to your individual needs with personalized, attentive care. View their family dentistry services online, or call (860) 223-1162 to schedule your appointment today.