What are dental veneers?
Thin shells of tooth-coloured porcelain compose veneers. Custom-made and bonded to the teeth, veneers conceal discoloured, worn, chipped, misaligned, uneven, or irregularly shaped teeth.
What’s the difference between veneers and crowns?
Crowns cover your teeth like a cap. A veneer is a thin shell that is applied to the front of your tooth with less damage to the natural tooth.
Will I get cavities with veneers on my teeth?
The prevalence of tooth decay with veneers is similar to natural teeth as long as they receive appropriate care.
Is the procedure reversible?
Because a very thin layer of tooth enamel must be removed to accommodate the thickness of the veneer, the process isn’t considered reversible.
What are the advantages of dental veneers?
When it comes to dental restorations, veneers preserve the most tooth structure (in comparison to crowns, for example) because they require minimal tooth structure removal. Dental veneers can help improve the appearance of your teeth, and gum tissues respond positively to their application. The colour can be matched to the surrounding teeth, and these restorations are stain-resistant.
Are there disadvantages to dental veneers?
Once a tooth has been prepared for a veneer, the procedure cannot be reversed. If a veneer cracks, it is difficult to repair without replacing the veneer in its entirety. Veneers are not a suitable option for people with poor gum health. It is essential to avoid habits such as pen chewing and nail-biting, which can cause the veneer to crack. In addition, those who grind or clench their teeth may chip or crack their veneers. Lastly, veneers are still susceptible to decay, so it is essential to maintain optimal oral health and schedule regular dentist appointments.
How long do dental veneers last?
Correctly produced and properly placed, porcelain veneers can last over 10-15 years. They do not require any special care other than regular brushing, flossing and visits to the dentist.
How do I get my new veneers to match my other teeth?
This issue will be addressed by your dentist during your consultation. They will devise a plan that incorporates the colour-matching procedure. Most individuals whiten their natural teeth prior to treatment so that their veneers will be a lighter shade.
Do porcelain veneers stain with tea, coffee and red wine?
Veneers made of porcelain should never stain. However, if your teeth have a tendency to stain, you should avoid or limit your consumption of these beverages if you want your natural tooth colour to match your veneers as closely as possible.
Will my veneered teeth be sensitive to hot and cold?
Due to the removal of a thin layer of enamel, you may experience sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages in the days following veneer placement. This sensation should vanish within a few days at the most. It is advisable to avoid extremely hot or cold foods for the first few days to allow the veneers to settle.
How strong are veneers? Are there restrictions on what I can eat?
Porcelain veneers are quite strong. However, porcelain is a type of glass, so veneers may fracture if extremely strong forces are applied. It is advised that you refrain from chewing ice, hard nuts, candy apples, popcorn, and other hard foods. Natural teeth are frequently harmed by the same foods, and while porcelain veneers are extremely durable, they are not invulnerable.
I grind my teeth at night. Will this damage my porcelain veneers?
Yes, this will eventually cause damage to your veneers, just as it would to your natural teeth. Your dentist can provide you with a nightguard to protect your teeth while you sleep.