If you’ve ever wondered why so many celebrities have seemingly flawless smiles, the answer in many cases is that they had their teeth treated with veneers. After all, veneers were invented as part of a costume for a Hollywood movie, and over the decades they have evolved into a cosmetic dental treatment that can permanently reshape a smile into a beautiful new state. Here’s a list of a few things you should know if you’re considering getting veneers.
Veneers Are Incredibly Versatile
Veneers are thin shells made out of porcelain or ceramic that are designed to mimic the color, shape, and luster of real teeth, and they are used to conceal a wide variety of cosmetic dental issues. These include:
- Stains that don’t respond to normal hygiene or teeth whitening treatments
- Worn down or misshapen teeth
- Chips or cracks
- Gaps between teeth
- In some cases, veneers can even address alignment issues
Veneers Are a Permanent Solution
When veneers are placed, the dentist will shave a tiny amount of enamel from the teeth being treated in order to make room for them. The veneers will then be cemented on top of them, and while these appliances can last for fifteen years or more with excellent care, teeth that have received them will need to wear them from then on. This means that veneers will eventually need to be replaced to keep your teeth healthy and your smile beautiful.
Veneers Require Proper Care
While veneers are incredibly durable and stain-resistant, they can still show wear and tear and discoloration over time. Biting down on hard foods, munching on ice, teeth grinding, or using your teeth as tools can cause chips or cracks to form in your veneers, and chronically poor hygiene and bad habits like tobacco use can eventually lead to unsightly stains or buildups forming on them. If the tooth wearing a veneer becomes decayed, the veneer wearing it will have to be removed so the infection can be treated and replaced afterward.
Taking proper care of your veneers can keep them looking great and working well for years to come. Consulting with your dentist can determine if veneers are a suitable treatment for you.
About the Author
Dr. Carlisle Vason earned his dental degree from the Dental College of Georgia at Augusta University where he earned the Junior Esthetic Dentistry Award and the Senior Comprehensive Case Award. After school, he completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency at the Charlie Norwood VA Hospital. His office in Atlanta, GA offers general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry such as veneers. To schedule a consultation for veneers, contact his office online or dial (404) 367-9799.