Scrolling through Instagram or admiring celebrities’ smiles, I noticed I hid behind a closed-mouth smile. Like one-third of Canadians, I faced this common struggle. My dentist mentioned my small teeth a few years ago and linked them to grinding.
Eventually, I considered veneers as they are a popular option for those who want excellent dental aesthetic results.
Due to my curiosity about the popularity of this cosmetic dental procedure, I found that in 2021, its global market was worth about US$ 2.7 Billion. It’s also interesting that it’s projected to reach $ 5.3 billion by 2032.
I looked for the best dentists in Maple Ridge and eventually had a solution to restore my worn-down teeth and transform my smile. In this article, I’ll share the basics of veneers and how this dental procedure can improve your quality of life, just as it did for me.
Key Takeaways:
- One-third of Americans are conscious about their teeth.
- Veneers can produce excellent dental aesthetic results.
- By 2032. The veneer global market may reach $5.3 billion.
Knowing The Basics About Veneers
What are Veneers?
Veneers are thin porcelain shells fixed to the front teeth, enhancing their shape, colour, position, or size.
- Veneers are a permanent dental solution, as they securely bond to the front surface of teeth.
- They can cost a significant amount, up to a couple of thousand dollars per tooth, due to customization, materials, and professional application.
- If you want veneers, schedule at least two appointments with your dentist.
Types of Veneers
| Types | Description |
| Porcelain Veneers | Resistant to stains, with natural tooth appearance after enamel removal for custom fitting. |
| Composite Veneers | Made of plastic and ceramic resin, applied directly to teeth in one visit, suitable for minor issues. |
| No-Prep Veneers | Involves minimal enamel removal, suitable for small gaps, but still requires enamel removal. |
| Lumineers | Thinner porcelain veneers are less durable than standard and may require more frequent replacement. |
| Pop-On Veneers | Removable option to hide dental issues, instantly changes smile appearance but can affect eating and speech. |
Steps To Installing Veneers
- The First Impressions
Dentists take impressions of your teeth before, during, and sometimes after the final veneer placement. They use these initial impressions to create a stone replica or wax-up for fabrication, which may result in temporary veneers while awaiting the permanent ones.
- Shade Options
Choosing the shade of your veneers involves your input and the dentist’s recommendations to achieve a natural yet appealing appearance, with customization based on your preferences and skin tone. Visiting the dental laboratory may require a precise shade analysis to ensure seamless blending with your style and adjacent teeth.
- Teeth Preparation
Preparing your teeth for veneers involves minimal enamel removal and several steps to ensure precise impressions. Here’s what to expect:
- The extent of prep work depends on the veneer type, tooth position, or dentist’s preference. Depending on the tooth condition, a local anesthetic may be necessary; in some cases, it may not.
- Using a high-speed handpiece, the dentist contours the tooth’s front surface.
- Dental professionals take precise impressions of prepared teeth using trays in the mouth filled with a thick paste material.
- The dental assistant holds the trays until the material sets, usually within three to five minutes.
- The next step involves biting into material for one to two minutes to get an impression of teeth biting together.
- Once done, the dental laboratory takes care of the impression for veneer fabrication.
- Temporary Veneers
Temporary veneers, typically acrylic, are cemented onto your teeth by the dentist or dental assistant to resemble natural teeth, albeit slightly less white and rougher in texture. While they help protect against sensitivity, it’s crucial to avoid:
- Biting hard foods
- Gum and sticky candy
- Using teeth to open or tear non-food items
- Biting nails
- Consuming intensely pigmented foods or beverages that could stain the acrylic.
- Your New Smile
Upon their return in seven to 10 business days, the dentist will inspect the veneers without cement before your final approval. Once approved, dentists will permanently bond them using dental resin. Local anesthesia may be necessary for teeth preparation, involving cleaning with water and acid etching to enhance cement adhesion.
The veneers stick to the teeth through cement, and the dentist removes excess cement and makes adjustments to ensure proper bite alignment.
Benefits of Veneers
| Benefit | Features |
| Aesthetic Improvement | – Enhances smile appearance
– Corrects tooth imperfections |
| Durability | – Resistant to stains
– Long-lasting solution |
| Minimal Enamel Removal | – Preserves natural tooth structure
– Requires little enamel removal |
| Customization | – Tailored to individual preferences
– Variability in shade and shape |
| Versatility | – Addresses various dental concerns
– Covers chips, cracks, and gaps |
| Conservative Treatmen | – Less invasive alternative to crowns
– Preserves more natural tooth structure |
Conclusion
Veneers have transformed my smile and infused me with newfound confidence and joy, profoundly appreciating their transformative effect on my life. Each smile reminds me of its positive impact, shaping my appearance and outlook on life.
You can achieve this transformative procedure with Westgate Dental Centre to enhance your confidence and overall well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Who can have veneers?
Veneers are ideal for teeth that have:
- Discolouration due to various factors such as root canal treatment, stains from medications like tetracycline, excessive fluoride, large resin fillings, or other causes.
- Wear and tear, chipping, or breakage.
- Crooked, uneven, or irregular shapes, including craters or bulges.
- Gaps between teeth where space closure is desired.
How long do veneers last?
Veneers, particularly porcelain restorations, can last 15 to 20 years with proper oral care. Regular dental check-ups help monitor any wear, shifting, or gum recession that may necessitate replacement.
Maintaining good oral hygiene with consistent flossing, brushing, and fluoride rinse helps prolong the lifespan of veneers by minimizing staining and cavities.
Do veneers require special care?
While veneers do not require special care beyond regular dental hygiene habits like brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, avoiding habits like teeth grinding and biting on hard objects can help prolong their lifespan.
References:
https://www.allure.com/story/veneers-teeth-makeover-before-after-photos
https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-are-dental-veneers-1059373
https://www.byrdie.com/veneers-process
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/veneers
https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/dental-veneers-market