Revitalizing a stained or damaged smile isn’t easy, and sometimes general at-home care and teeth cleanings from your dentist aren’t enough. A common solution is dental veneers. This cosmetic enhancement offers a variety of benefits and has several applications. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about them.

Understanding Dental Veneers

What Are They?

Dental veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that are applied to the surface of a tooth. Usually, they’re only used on the visible front teeth. Each is carefully crafted by a dentist to perfectly align with surrounding teeth and to comfortably fit in your mouth. They’re also colorized to match surrounding teeth and can be made of ceramic or composite resins. With proper care, they can last approximately 10 years.

How Are They Used?

The most popular use of veneers is to cover up unsightly stains. Rather than undergoing repeated teeth whitening treatments, a person can have their dentist apply a veneer to the problematic teeth. Veneers are also used to cover minor chips or fill gaps between teeth. It’s important to understand that they aren’t a replacement for brushing and flossing. Veneers will break down without proper care, so you need to see a dentist twice a year and take care of your teeth at home for the best results. They also aren’t invincible, which is why you should avoid chewing on hard objects and wear a mouth guard during contact sports, and a night guard if you clench or grind your teeth.

What Is the Process Like?

Before the procedure, a dentist will take a mold of your mouth. A dental lab will then craft the thin veneers to fit comfortably over the target teeth. During the procedure, the dentist will remove a small amount of enamel so the veneer can sit flush with your other teeth. A temporary veneer may be used first while the lab made one is crafted. Once in place, the dentist will cure the bond with a light and then clear any bonding material from the other teeth. This results in a revitalized smile.

If you’re interested in exploring dental veneers further, Drs Emery & Scuro DMD, PC of Rochester, NY, can assist. They’ve served the area for over 35 years and provide comprehensive general, cosmetic dentistry, and preventive dental care. They can also restore smiles with orthodontics, which you can learn more about on their website. Call (585) 247-7110 to schedule an examination with a dentist.