What is a Dental Veneer?
Veneers are thin, durable shells made from tooth-coloured porcelain that is custom-crafted in a dental laboratory to match the shape and shade of your natural teeth.
They can be used to address a variety of aesthetic concerns including worn, crooked, or discoloured teeth. Veneers can also be used to close gaps in your smile and adjust the size of teeth.
If you're looking to enhance the shape of individual teeth or improve the overall symmetry of your smile, veneers may be a great alternative to dental crowns.
With proper care, dental veneers can provide long-lasting results for many years.
The Veneers Process
When you choose to get veneers, your dentist will typically begin the process by gently reshaping your teeth to ensure the veneers fit perfectly in your mouth without adding extra bulk to your teeth.
Next, they’ll take an impression of your teeth, which is sent to a dental lab to create your custom veneers.
Once your veneers are ready, your dentist will carefully bond them to the front of your natural teeth using dental cement and a curing light. Each veneer is precisely crafted to match your preferred shape, size, and colour.
After the procedure, you’ll be left with a beautiful, confident smile, and your veneers should blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
Caring for Veneers
Taking good care of your veneers is essential to keeping your smile looking great for years. Treat them like your natural teeth; brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and use a gentle, non-abrasive toothpaste to protect their surface. Don’t forget to floss every day to keep the gums healthy and prevent plaque buildup around your veneers.
It’s also wise to avoid biting into hard foods or objects as these can chip or damage your veneers. Although veneers resist staining, try to limit foods and drinks such as coffee and red wine, and steer clear of tobacco to help maintain the brightness of your teeth. With the right care, your veneers will keep your smile looking beautiful and natural for a long time.