Understanding Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are popular cosmetic dental applications. The devices, which are thin sheaths of porcelain, are quite versatile and can correct most dental blemishes, such as cracks, chips, gaps, and discoloration.
If you are considering dental veneers, you may still know relatively little about them. Here is a bit of information to help you better understand them and their care.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Veneers?
Anyone with minor dental damage that has caused a tooth to appear less attractive may be a suitable candidate for veneers. However, the dentist can make a final determination after inspecting your mouth and discussing the results that you are seeking.
How Are Veneers Applied to the Teeth?
A veneer is fabricated in a dental laboratory from an impression of the patient's mouth. Prior to the creation of a mold or impression, the dentist files away a thin layer of tooth material from the front of the tooth or teeth that will receive the veneer application. The thickness of the removed tooth enamel should equal that of the veneer.
After the teeth are prepared, the dentist creates a mold of the mouth and submits it to a dental lab. Since the teeth have already been altered, temporary veneers may be placed to protect the them until the permanent devices are ready.
After the veneers are complete and have been forwarded back to the dental office, they are applied to the teeth and bonded into position. A bright light may be applied to activate the adhesive used to cement the veneers to the teeth.
Are Veneers Long-lasting?
Dental veneers are considered permanent. They should last about 10 years before requiring replacement. Often, the replacement is due to changes in the patient's mouth, such as the recession of the gingival tissues. If the gums recede, longer veneers are needed to cover all of the natural tooth material. Otherwise, the underlying tooth material will be exposed between the top of a veneer and the gum line.
How Should Veneers Be Maintained?
To maintain dental veneers, you should avoid biting down on extremely hard items, such as ice, pencils, or fingernails. Although physical damage to a veneer is unlikely, it can still occur.
Also, the devices should be brushed and maintained like natural teeth. Accumulations of tartar and plaque can still build up on the veneers, inciting gum problems.
To learn more about dental veneers, schedule a consultation with a cosmetic dentist such as Picone Dental - Vincent J Picone DDS in your local area.