Veneers are an excellent option for crooked, chipped, or stained teeth. They provide an instant smile makeover by creating an even, bright white smile with beautifully aligned teeth.
What are Veneers?
Dental veneers are custom-made shells that cover the front surface of the teeth. They are made of tooth-colored materials (resin) designed to look like natural teeth. Veneers can correct various cosmetic issues, such as:
- Misshapen teeth
- Discolored teeth that can’t whiten
- Gaps between teeth
- Minor tooth imperfections like cracks
The veneer process requires two dental visits. The dental practitioner will prepare the teeth by removing a thin enamel layer during the first visit. During this visit, the teeth’s impression is taken to a dental lab to create a custom veneer.
In the second visit, temporary veneers are removed, and permanent ones are bonded to the teeth.
The Lifespan of Veneers
The lifespan of veneers relies on different factors, some of which include:
The Material Used
The materials used have a significant impact on the longevity of veneers Perth. Porcelain veneers last the longest; they can last for 20 years as long as maximum care is taken. Composite veneers can last up to 10 years. The materials affect how veneers resist stains and fractures.
Lifestyle
If you smoke or drink, the veneers may be susceptible to damage. To increase lifespan, abstain from activities that can damage the veneers.
Quality of Veneers
Quality veneers last longer. You can get them from a reputable dental care. While the cost of getting one may be high, it’s better to shop once than get a cheap one that constantly needs repair. Avoid cheap ones.
Oral Care
Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth. Also, brush your teeth at least twice daily with a soft-bristled brush.
Caring for Veneers to Increase Lifespan
Proper care and maintenance are vital to maximize the lifespan of your veneers and keep your smile looking its best for years to come. Here are some tips and tricks to help you get started:
- Avoid harmful habits: Avoid using your teeth to bite your nails or open packages; these habits can lead to cracks, chips, and breaks in the veneers, which may need repair.
- Limit consumption of staining food: Reduce or eliminate foods or drinks, like red wine, tea, and coffee, that can stain your veneers.
- Brush and floss: Floss once daily or brush your teeth twice daily to eliminate plaque and food particles from the veneers. Plaque buildup can destroy the veneers.
- Visit your dental specialist: Your dental practitioner will scan for damaged or loose veneers.
Pros and Cons of Veneers
Veneers are an easy way to improve your smile; however, there are advantages and disadvantages to consider before getting them.
Pros
- Veneers provide an instant smile makeover. They can correct crooked, chipped, or stained teeth, giving you a bright white smile.
- The veneers require minimal to no tooth preparations compared to crowns.
- They are durable
Cons
- They are expensive. Veneers can require maintenance to keep your smile looking its best.
- They require part of the enamel to be removed.
- They are irreversible
Alternatives to Veneers
If veneers don’t seem like the right choice for you, don’t stress – other options are available.
Invisalign
Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, clear aligners to shift the teeth into the proper position. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are removable, nearly invisible, and comfortable. Invisalign can fix spacing issues, underbites, overbites, and crowded teeth.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is ideal when the teeth are in good shape but have become stained over time. Teeth whitening can be done alone or with other cosmetic treatments like Invisalign for a complete smile makeover.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding uses resin, a tooth-colored composite, to fill gaps, repair cracks, or reshape teeth. Bonding takes one time but may need touch-ups over time.
The Cost of Veneers
The cost of veneers can vary depending on an array of factors. Generally, you can expect to pay between $250 to $1,500 for composite veneers and between $1,000 to $2,000 for porcelain veneers perth per tooth.
Frequently Asked Questions: Questions to Ask Your Dentist
1. How long do veneers last?
With proper care, the veneers can last between 10-30 years depending on:
- The material used
- How you care for them
- Oral health and hygiene
2. How much do veneers cost?
Veneers can range from $250 – $1,000 for composite and $1,000 – $2,000 for porcelain.
3. Do veneers stain?
Veneers made of porcelain are stain-resistant but are not stain-proof.
Other FAQs
4. What is the process of getting veneers?
5. What type of veneers do you recommend?
Partying Words
While veneers aren’t permanent, they can give you an attractive smile for many years, especially with reasonable care and maintenance. The key is to choose a skilled cosmetic dentist, follow their recommendations, limit staining, and avoid damaging habits.