Dental veneers are a natural tooth-colored covering that attaches to the front surfaces of your teeth. It is a permanent cosmetic solution for tooth imperfections like chips, gaps, and stains.
Resin and porcelain are the most commonly used materials. At Pine Desert Dental, you can choose to cover a single tooth or to enhance your whole smile, depending on your needs.
Different types of veneers require different procedures and target multiple needs. During your consultation, Dr. Sunitsch will recommend an individualized plan with the best option for your case. Each type of material has a different lifespan.
Traditional veneers are usually made of porcelain or resin. The procedure for their proper placement usually involves teeth grinding and enamel removal. On the other hand, non-prep veneers may require minimal dental alterations.
Porcelain veneers are custom-made to fit your teeth. Dr. Sunitsch will have to remove some enamel to ensure a correct grip. Temporary veneers may be used until the final pieces are designed in the lab.
Composite resin veneers and porcelain veneers have similar teeth preparation procedures. After grinding off some of the enamel on your teeth, your dentist will apply a thin layer of resin until the desired look is achieved. UV light and heat may be used to cure and harden your veneers.
No-prep veneers use specific brands of covers. They are made to a custom fit, and while they still need some enamel removal, the procedure is minimal. Dr. Sunitsch will inform you during your consultation if non-prep veneers are suitable for you since not all patients are ideal candidates.
Some of the benefits dental veneers offer include the following:
- Enhancing your smile
- Long-lasting solution for tooth imperfections
- Low-maintenance aesthetic option
- Stain-resistant dental surface
Dental crowns are a cover that hugs your whole tooth for added protection. On the other hand, veneers are a cosmetic procedure that will only be placed on the visible surface of your teeth.
Veneers might be helpful if you are looking for an option to enhance your smile for any of the following reasons:
- Chipped teeth
- Gaps
- Stains
- Misshapen teeth
During your dental veneer consultation, Dr. Sunitsch might ask about your recent medical history and examine your mouth. Learning about your lifestyle and dietary habits helps determine if you are a proper candidate for the procedure. If so, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth that will be sent to the lab.
Once your veneers are ready, Dr. Sunistch will grind and remove some enamel from your teeth to prepare them for the veneer's placement. The veneers will then be cemented into place, and your dentist will make all the necessary adjustments.
There is no recovery time needed since you'll be able to eat, smile, and speak normally immediately after your veneers are put into place.
The teeth-grinding process needed to cement resin and porcelain veneers into place is irreversible. However, the caps that will cover your teeth usually won't need to be replaced for up to 15 years with optimal care.
Besides flossing, brushing your teeth constantly, and visiting your dentist for regular checkups, we recommend the following:
- Avoid biting into hard foods.
- Do not open packages with your teeth.
- Use a dental night guard if you suffer from bruxism.