Dental Veneers: Conservative and Permanent Thin Coverings for the Front of Your Teeth
Veneers are conservative and permanent thin coverings for the front of your teeth. They are fabricated in a lab and can significantly improve your smile. They are stain resistant and resemble natural tooth enamel in their color and luster.
They can hide many cosmetic problems like crooked teeth, uneven teeth, discoloration or chips. Unlike other treatments that take months or years to show results, veneers offer instant results!
Natural Appearance
Veneers are wafer-thin porcelain shells that we permanently affix to the front surface of your teeth. They can hide stains, chips, cracks, and discolorations, close minor gaps, and reshape or recolor misaligned teeth.
The porcelain we use to craft veneers closely resembles the light-reflecting qualities of tooth enamel and promotes a natural appearance. Veneers are less likely to stain than bonding and, with regular checkups and good oral hygiene, can last for 10-15 years or more.
Our doctors will talk to you about your cosmetic goals and create a treatment plan that fits your needs. We offer both porcelain and composite dental veneers Raleigh NC, so you can choose the option that’s right for your smile. Before placing your veneers, we will remove a small amount of tooth enamel from the front of each tooth to ensure they fit naturally. Unlike crowns, veneers only cover the surface of the tooth without altering its shape or size.
Whitening
Unlike whitening products, which are typically applied at home, veneers are custom made to match your smile. They are also a permanent solution for your cosmetic concerns, lasting 10-15 years or more.
Porcelain veneers hide stains, chips, gaps, and other unattractive features that can make you look older than you are. They are also a quick way to revitalize your smile, with the treatment being completed in just one visit.
Veneers require our dentist and team to shave a small amount of the existing tooth’s surface. Depending on your preference, we can use porcelain or composite resin.
We recommend that you avoid attempting to whiten your teeth if you have dental work such as fillings or crowns in your front teeth. Bleaching only works on natural tooth enamel, so the other materials will not change color and may appear darker. Trying to whiten these materials can also irritate your gums, which is why it’s important to consult a dental professional for suitable recommendations.
Repair Cracks or Chips
If a veneer chips, cracks, or becomes discolored, it can easily be repaired. This is a quick procedure that involves applying dental bonding material to the tooth and shaping it. This type of cosmetic treatment is also effective in fixing minor alignment issues. Generally, porcelain dental veneers Raleigh NC are preferred because they resist staining better than resin composite ones.
It’s important to note that dental bonding is not suitable for treating extensive problems with crooked teeth or severe crowding. In these cases, orthodontics might be a better option.
If a veneer completely breaks off, it will need to be replaced. This will require another appointment at the dentist. During this appointment, the teeth will be prepared, and impressions of the smile will be taken. The new veneer will be fabricated in the laboratory, and the dentist will attach it to the tooth using dental cement. In some cases, a patient may be able to temporarily glue the damaged veneer on their own at home (using a dental-grade dental adhesive, not superglue or CA glue). However, it’s recommended that patients visit their dentist for this process.
Straighten Teeth
Veneers can be used to cover a wide range of cosmetic imperfections. While whitening can drastically improve discolorations and dental bonding can fill gaps and repair chips, veneers are also a great option to hide crooked teeth and small spaces or misalignments between your teeth.
The thin porcelain coverings look natural and reflect light in the same way as your own tooth enamel. This means that they will not be noticeable to others and will blend in with your smile. Dental veneers Raleigh NC are a great alternative to orthodontic treatments like braces, which can take months or even years to straighten your teeth.
Veneers are a permanent solution that will last for years, especially if you maintain good oral hygiene and attend regular visits to the dentist. Unlike composite resin, which can wear down or erode over time, porcelain can withstand the test of time and will not need to be replaced or repaired. This can help you save money in the long run.