Looking for a quick and natural-looking way to improve your smile? Dental veneers could be exactly what you need! Read this blog to learn more.
Dental veneers were created in the 1930s by Dr. Charles Pincus. He designed them for celebrities to temporarily use in photoshoots and movie premiers. Though they have always achieved the same goal—dramatically improving an imperfect smile—dental veneers are much different now than they were back then.
Today, dental practices all across the country use these thin, tooth-colored shells to improve the smiles of everyday people. Dental veneers are often called an “instant smile makeover” because of how quickly they transform the appearance of a patient’s teeth.
Continue reading to learn the answers to the most commonly asked questions about dental veneers.
1. How can dental veneers improve my smile?
Most mild to moderate aesthetic dental issues can be addressed with dental veneers. Some of these cosmetic problems include:
- Misalignment
- Worn-down teeth
- Cracked and chipped teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Misshapen or uneven teeth
- Intrinsic dental stains
To be sure dental veneers are an option for your smile, visit an experienced cosmetic dentist near you today!
2. How are veneers placed?
Placing veneers is a simple process that takes only two appointments. During your first appointment, the dentist preps the teeth by removing a small amount of enamel to make room for the veneers. If this step is skipped, the veneers tend to appear horse-like.
Next, your dentist will take digital impressions of your prepared teeth. These are sent to a lab technician who will create the veneers over the next two to three weeks.
Once the veneers arrive at the dentist’s office, the dentist will roughen the front surface of your teeth for maximum bonding. The veneers are finally placed, and the dentist will make any needed adjustments.
3. Am I a candidate for veneers?
As long as you have healthy teeth and gums, you’re probably a good candidate for porcelain veneers! If tooth decay or gum disease is present, those issues must be addressed prior to cosmetic treatment.
For dentists, cosmetic dental procedures are a way to improve an already healthy smile, not make a smile appear healthy. Once your mouth is restored to health, the dentist can begin preparing you for dental veneers.
4. What are the pros and cons of veneers?
One of the greatest benefits of dental veneers is that they appear incredibly realistic. When the process is complete, people will notice that you’re smile is improved, but they won’t know the new teeth aren’t natural! This quick 2-part treatment is another reason why so many people choose veneers to improve their smile.
The most common complaint about veneers is that part of the natural tooth structure has to be removed. Once the dentist has removed the enamel from your teeth, it can never be replaced and the natural tooth with never look the same. Patients must consider this when choosing dental veneers.
If enamel removal is a concern, ask the dentist if Lumineers® are an option.
5. Who can place dental veneers?
An experienced, skilled cosmetic dentist must place dental veneers. Though many dentists will claim to have sufficient experience, make sure it’s true by asking the following questions:
- What training has prepared you to design and place veneers?
- Do you have any before-and-after photos from previous patients?
- Can you explain every step of the veneer placement process?
When you find a dentist like Dr. Luminita Markham who can answer each of these questions, you’ve found a great dentist who you can trust!
If you’d like to schedule an initial consultation with Dr. Markham, call our office today at (530) 823-8771.
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