Just a few decades ago, it was more common to see crooked smiles than straight ones. With the magic of technology like braces, now we see social media feeds and television screens full of perfect teeth.
What about those of us who aren’t thrilled with parts of our grins but don’t have enough problems to justify braces?
Well, most of those minor cosmetic imperfections can be fixed with something called a “veneer.” At Cimarron Dental, veneers are so common, we see them all the time as part of our daily office visits.
What’s a Veneer, Anyway?
Veneers are tiny little dental appliances that are strong enough to do a massive job. They’re versatile enough to cover up everything from stains to gaps between teeth.
Don’t let the size fool you, though. They may be wafer-thin, but they’re made out of porcelain or composite resin. Both materials are strong enough to hold up to long-term use and blend in naturally with your other teeth.
Is your overbite driving you crazy? Would you love to cover up that one small crooked tooth? Whatever it is that keeps you from being totally happy with your smile, a veneer could be a solution.
Ready to learn more about the most versatile dental accessories in the field? Read on for the details!
Basics Veneers 101
Maybe your dentist recommended veneers, or you’ve heard of them and are debating the investment. No matter the reason you’re interested in veneers, we’re here to give you the skinny on these tiny yet mighty innovations.
Combining scientific properties with leading technology, a veneer is a super-thin shell. It’s explicitly designed to hide whatever “flaw” you’re hoping to get rid of. The customized shell is sculpted to fit your tooth and then bonded to your enamel.
How long do veneers last, you wonder? The answer depends on the kind you choose to get. Temporary veneers can be worn up to a week, while “permanent” veneers can hold up under stress for up to 15 years with care.
Any kind of veneer in the dental industry is used to correct things like:
- Teeth that have been affected by bruxism (unconscious grinding and clenching)
- Teeth with small chips in them
- A random crooked tooth
- Multiple crooked teeth that aren’t severe enough for braces
- Deeply stained teeth that won’t lighten with whitening treatments
- Gaps or uneven spaces between teeth
Veneers are a favorite fix of dentists and patients. They’re easily applied, and no anesthesia is necessary since most patients don’t feel any discomfort in the process.
Customizing Your Veneers
Veneer placement always begins with a mold of your teeth. At Cimarron Dental, we take an impression, and then we use it to determine the best standard veneer or to design your custom-made one.
Should you go with the standard, in-office veneers, you’ll be able to help pick out a shade and shape that matches your teeth best before they’re applied. This route is the fastest way to go because you won’t have to wait for the veneers to be created.
When your veneer is ready, it is bonded to the enamel of the tooth you want to cover up. You don’t notice them on other people, and they won’t notice them on you!The hardest part is deciding whether you want composite resin or porcelain veneers. Both of them are going to give you a final look that you’ll love. However, each one has its own advantages.
All About Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain is widely compared to the natural enamel in a tooth. Not only is it a similar color, but it’s just as durable and possible even more so. The general idea with using porcelain as a veneer is that if it can be done with your natural teeth, you can go ahead and do it with your porcelain veneer.
Another great benefit of using porcelain as your veneer of choice is that it’s resistant to staining. Your enamel becomes discolored over the years with habits, eating, and drinking. Porcelain can stain, although it’s a lot harder for that to happen.
When it comes to price, porcelain types are the more expensive option. They tend to last longer than composite resin veneers and will rarely give you problems. Because of this, most people consider them to be worth the investment.
The only disadvantage with porcelain veneers is that they’ll take longer to create than the composite resin versions would. Chances are, you won’t be able to get the shell bonded to your tooth on the same day the dentist takes your impressions.
Still, when you would rather make a solid investment one time and then forget about the veneers for years, porcelain is your answer.
Comparing Porcelain to Composite Resin Veneers
The best veneers for people in a hurry or on a budget, composite resin are a close second to porcelain. You’ll get a finished, natural look that corrects the minor imperfections. And, even better, it can be done quickly if you opt for standard veneers.
The biggest difference between composite resin and porcelain isn’t the final result. Both of them look and feel natural. The distinction is in how well they both hold up to regular wear and tear.
Porcelain, as mentioned, can be treated the same way you’d treat a natural, healthy tooth. Hard and sticky foods are enjoyable (within reason—we don’t recommend too many of them for natural teeth, either!), and they hold up to impact well. If you’re in a contact sport, porcelain veneers are the better option.
Composite resin varieties can be damaged easier. But repairing veneers isn’t tricky. It’s a simple, in-office procedure. If your veneer breaks, call Cimarron Dental, and we’ll take care of you as quickly as possible.
Either veneer option you choose, your investment should last for years. The better you take care of your teeth, the longer your veneers will take care of your smile.
Cimarron Dental Can Help You Care for Your Smile
You might still have individual questions, like “How long do porcelain veneers last on your front teeth?” and other concerns about getting veneers. Whatever you need to be answered, we’re ready to assist you.
Remember, any veneer you get can come loose with wear and tear. It’s important to choose an expert dentist with top-quality materials to apply your veneers. You’ll also want to work with that dentist over the years to take care of your smile and make your investment last as long as it can.
Cimarron Dental’s friendly professionals will work with you to figure out your dental goals and customize a plan that fits your needs and budget. Your smile should be something you’re proud to show off, and we’re glad to help you get and stay there!
