Dental veneers: The Procedure & Results

Dentist showing porcelain crowns to the female patient.

Veneer Procedure – What to Expect

Most people tend to get a bit anxious when they hear they need any type of dental work; however, getting veneers is usually not something you have to worry about too much. Veneers are very thin shells made of porcelain or resin composite materials designed to cover the front surface of your teeth, giving them a more natural look while helping protect their surfaces from damage. Most dentists will use a local anesthetic, so you won’t feel anything during the procedure. Occasionally the dentist may need to do some subtle adjustments in order for the veneer to fit perfectly, but all-in-all, getting dental veneers is an easy process that can greatly enhance your smile.

Dental Veneers: Porcelain Veneer installation Procedure. 3D illustration

Veneers vs crowns: What’s the difference?

One of the most common questions faced in dental care is understanding the difference between veneers and crowns. Both are great solutions to improving teeth, but knowing when to use either can be difficult. Veneers are ultrathin pieces of porcelain that are custom-crafted to fit over teeth while crowns are basically a protective “cap” that covers the entire tooth including its root. Both are well-suited for correcting chipped, broken or discolored teeth, but many dentists believe that veneers look more aesthetically pleasing than crowns do because they appear brighter and have a translucency that is similar to natural teeth. Crowns, on the other hand, can better protect a weakened or cracked tooth from further damage due to their full coverage. Understanding when it’s necessary to select one over the other takes experienced professionals who can evaluate your individual dental needs.

At Smile Standard your consultations are always free. Reach out to us today at 480-616-2222 to set up an appointment.

Composite resin veneers

Composite resin veneers are an excellent solution for people who have imperfections in their teeth, such as chips, discoloration and uneven surfaces. These veneers can be placed over single or multiple teeth quickly and in a straightforward procedure. Not only do they improve the appearance of your smile, they also offer greater durability than traditional alternatives like crowns. The result is natural-looking teeth with improved structure, shape and color that can enhance self-confidence. Patients who receive composite resin veneers report improved brightness in their smiles within hours after the procedure, proving it to be an effective way to restore oral health and boost aesthetic beauty.

Porcelain veneers

Porcelain veneers offer a beautiful and easy way to update your smile. They are an excellent cosmetic dentistry option for treating teeth that are chipped, stained, cracked, or misaligned. A thin layer of porcelain is placed onto the front surface of teeth which helps cover any imperfections while also keeping them looking natural and vibrant. With porcelain veneers, you can achieve a flawless smile in just two visits! Plus, they last for many years with proper care and maintenance. If you are wanting to make a lasting transformation to your smile without undergoing major surgery, porcelain veneers could be the perfect solution for you.

What is the difference between porcelain and composite veneers?

Porcelain and composite veneers are two types of dental veneers used to cover the outer surfaces of teeth. While they both have similar effects in terms of improving your smile and being stain resistant, they differ in how they are applied and the materials used. Porcelain veneers are more expensive and require more invasive procedures, as they must be permanently bonded to your teeth. Composite veneers involve less complicated techniques such as light curing or direct application, although this type doesn’t last as long or stay as white as porcelain ones. Ultimately, whichever option you choose will depend on the desired results versus budget or level of commitment required.

Contact Smile Standard today at 480-616-2222 to discuss your options.

 close up rack of various color tones of veneers

No-prep veneers

No-prep veneers are a minimally invasive dental procedure that provides an aesthetic improvement to the appearance of teeth. These custom-made ultra-thin dental shells fit directly over existing teeth and are bonded in place with a special adhesive. No-prep veneers offer patients natural-looking results while being much less costly and invasive than traditional porcelain veneers. This type of cosmetic dentistry requires very little enamel removal, creating minimal discomfort as compared to more extensive treatments. Furthermore, the process of placing no-prep veneers is usually completed in two office visits for added convenience. With no-prep veneers, anyone wanting an improvement in their smile can do so without the hassle of lengthy treatments or uncomfortable procedures.

Who needs dental veneers?

Many people can benefit from dental veneers and not just for cosmetic reasons. Dental veneers are thin shells usually made of porcelain that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth, allowing them to cover up various issues such as chipped, discolored, gapped, or misshapen teeth. An even more practical reason for getting dental veneers is that they can provide a layer of extra protection to teeth that have been weakened due to decay or wear and tear. Regardless of their intentions for getting veneers, people who want an easy solution that helps create a beautiful smile in just one office visit may want to consider talking to their dentist about this option.

before and after stained misshapen teeth left porcelain veneers right

What happens before dental veneer placement?

Before a dental veneer can be placed, teeth must be prepared. This usually requires light buffing or grinding of the enamel surface of your tooth to free up some space so that the veneer can fit comfortably on the existing tooth structure. An anesthetic may also be needed for this step if it is uncomfortable. Your dentist takes custom impressions of your teeth to make sure the veneers fit snugly and look natural when in place. If everything looks good, he or she will then bond the veneer to your tooth with a special resin adhesive that dries and forms a tight seal to finish off what is typically a lengthy but successful procedure!

3d render tooth prepared for veneer installation

What happens during veneer placement?

Veneer placement is an important part of cosmetic dentistry, and it can be done in as little as two visits. During the first visit, the dentist will assess your smile and determine whether or not veneers are a viable option. If so, he or she will then etch away the surface of the tooth and take an impression for the laboratory. On the second visit, your dental professional will bond the veneers to your teeth using a special type of adhesive and a curing light. This is a detailed process that may also require a few small alterations to fit perfectly onto your teeth. Once in place, you’ll enjoy years of beautiful smiles thanks to your new veneers!

woman trying on dental veneers from dentist in chair

Are veneers painful?

Making the decision to get dental veneers can be stressful, in particular, because many people wonder if this procedure is painful. The good news is that getting veneers isn’t too uncomfortable and your dentist will use anesthetic and other techniques to minimize any potential soreness. After the veneers are put on, there may also be some minor sensitivity and discomfort, but this should dissipate as you get used to them. Since each individual patient needs a slightly different approach when it comes to veneers, it’s best to discuss your options with your dentist and learn about their pain management strategies so that you are comfortable throughout the entire process.

How long do veneers teeth last?

The life of veneers teeth is highly dependent on the kinds of materials used, and how the patient looks after them. Generally speaking, dental veneers can last anywhere between 10-20 years. Traditional porcelain veneers last longer than composite resin ones, which are composed of cheaper materials. Dentists might recommend patients with composite veneers look over them annually for any chipping or color changes. The longevity of the veneer also depends on the care that goes into the appliance; whether one brushes twice a day and flosses at regular intervals results in the best effects from these treatments. When taking proper care of their veneers teeth, patients can expect them to continue looking great for many years to come.

photo of cheerful aged woman with porcelain veneer smile

Recovery and Post-Procedure Care

Maintaining your dental veneers is important both to protect your dental health and the aesthetic outcome of your cosmetic treatment. It is important to brush and floss regularly after the procedure in order to keep bacteria away from the edges of the veneer. Additionally, it is advised that you steer clear from hard or sticky foods that may chip or damage the surface of your veneer. Those who have had porcelain veneers should avoid contact sports or activities which require heavily padded gear, or any other physical activity where contact with a hard material is likely to occur. To extend the lifespan of your dental veneers, it is always wise to visit your dentist on a regular basis so as to ensure that all parts of these prosthetics remain in top condition.

woman at dentist getting veneers cleaned with brush tool

Do dental veneers require special care?

Dental veneers are a great solution for improving the look of your smile and correcting some minor cosmetic imperfections. But do these semi-permanent fixtures necessitate special care? The answer is yes – although veneers can last for decades with proper care, there are still a few steps you need to take to avoid problems. Regular brushing and flossing are a must; it’s also important to minimize hard chewing, avoid grinding your teeth, and refrain from using abrasive toothpaste that could damage the surface. Additionally, avoiding acidic foods and drinks will help veneers keep their sheen and brightness over time. With just a little extra caution, dental veneers can be enjoyed for many years to come!

older man smiling showing new veneers

Conclusion

In conclusion, dental veneers serve as an excellent solution to a wide range of aesthetic issues. They can create the look of a perfect smile and boost both self-esteem and confidence. Moreover, with proper preventative care, they can last for several years before needing to be replaced. When considering veneers or any other type of dental improvement, however, it is essential to consult with a qualified dentist to make sure you receive the treatment that is right for you.

 

Call or text Smile Standard today to schedule a free consult: 480-616-2222