Everything You Need to Know Before Getting Dental Veneers
If you’re looking to transform your smile, veneers are one of the best treatment options you can go for. What started as a celebrity procedure is now one of the most popular forms of cosmetic dentistry to upgrade and restore your teeth for years to come.
Are you considering getting veneers to elevate your smile? Read on to learn everything you need to know before the procedure.
What Are Veneers?
Veneers are thin shells made from tooth-colored porcelain or a resin composite. They permanently attach to the front of your teeth to improve their appearance.
A veneers procedure can be used to treat several cosmetic dental concerns, including:
- chipped teeth
- broken teeth
- discoloration
- teeth that are too small
Veneer Preparation
Different types of veneers require different preparation procedures.
Porcelain veneers require tooth reduction for each veneer to fit your mouth correctly. This involves grinding of your tooth structure, sometimes past the enamel. This process is irreversible and requires a local anesthetic. Your cosmetic dentist then makes an impression of your teeth to create an accurate mold. They use cement to hold the veneer in place.
Before fitting composite veneers, dentists etch the surface of your teeth. They apply a thin layer of composite to your tooth, which bonds to the etched texture. The composite cures or hardens when exposed to a special type of light.
No-prep veneers require small and less drastic alterations to allow for proper veneer fitting. The grinding does not go past the enamel.
Healing
Most patients take two weeks to get used to their veneers. After having your veneers fitted, you may experience tooth sensitivity as you heal and adjust.
To alleviate sensitivity, use toothpaste for sensitive teeth and avoid extremely hot or cold food or beverages.
Veneers require the same oral health habits you have for your natural teeth. Keep up with daily brushing and flossing, paying extra attention to the areas where your veneers meet your gum line.
Cost of Veneers
Porcelain veneers are more expensive, require more appointments when being fitted, and cost more to fix. These high once-off costs are worth the investment when you consider their longevity, strength, and low likelihood of staining.
Porcelain veneers can cost between $925 and $2500 per tooth.
Composite veneers cost less to fit and only require one dentist appointment, but typically only last between 5-7 years. They also cost less to repair but will need to be repaired more often than porcelain veneers.
Composite veneers can cost between $400 and $2000 per tooth.
Be aware that most insurance policies will not cover veneers, as they are considered a cosmetic procedure.
Transform Your Smile With Dental Veneers
Getting veneers is a life-changing dental procedure. Whether you’re replacing one tooth or the entire top row, your new teeth are sure to give you unparalleled confidence in your smile.
If you’re looking for the best Wilmington dentist, you’ve come to the right place! If you need a checkup, a deep clean, or want to look at getting veneers, contact us today to schedule an appointment.