Parental dental tips

Dental veneers are thin pieces of porcelain or composite materials which are applied to the teeth in order to fix cosmetic problems such as crooked or discoloured teeth. They are a popular form of cosmetic dentistry and are often considered to be a quick, easy way to acquire a more attractive smile. However, like all dental procedures, veneers are not for everyone. This short guide aims to give an insight into veneers, explaining how to choose veneers, how they are applied and how to care for them. 

Choosing Dental Veneers

Choosing whether or not to get dental veneers is a very personal decision and depends largely on what your existing teeth are like. WebMD explains in detail which dental problems veneers are intended to fix, including discoloured teeth, chipped teeth or teeth that are misaligned or broken. You will need to weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of veneers against other cosmetic treatments for these issues, including tooth whitening and braces, and come to a conclusion on what is best for you. You will then need to decide what type of veneers you want: as Dentaly explains, there are both composite and porcelain veneers. Porcelain has certain advantages, such as a longer lifespan and less staining, but it is more expensive. Consider what you can afford and what your priorities are, and make a choice that suits you.

Fitting Of Dental Veneers

In contrast to other cosmetic dental procedures such as tooth whitening, the process of getting veneers is complicated and has multiple stages. The first appointment will be a discussion between you and your dentist, who will make a mould of your teeth and may take x-rays in order to get a better idea of what is required. Secondly, around half a millimetre of enamel is removed from the teeth, and a model is made which allows for your custom veneers to be made. The final appointment involves the actual placement of the veneers, at which point your dentist can make small adjustments to ensure a perfect fit and colour.

Caring For Dental Veneers

As Colgate explains, dental veneers can last as long as 10–20 years with proper care, at which point they will have to be replaced. This gives you a good incentive to take care of them, as it will save you money in the long run. You should care for your veneers in the same way as you would for real teeth, with a comprehensive routine of brushing, flossing, mouthwash and regular dentist appointments. You may also want to consider limiting your consumption of foods and drinks that stain your teeth, such as coffee, as well as refraining from smoking.

While veneers are not for everyone, they offer many advantages, such as their long lifespan and easy aftercare. If you are interested in getting dental veneers, speak to a good cosmetic dentist about your suitability for veneers.