Different Types of Dental Veneers

Everyone wants a smile that leaves an impression, while having to boost their confidence at the same time. To achieve this, people actually go through various dental procedures, particularly if there are issues that they want to address. For those who have a set of teeth that have minor aesthetic issues such as being misshapen or crooked, discolored, chipped or uneven, one of the most popular and effective treatments for these in cosmetic dentistry would be the application of dental veneers. It is done as a means of restructuring the front teeth, rather than back teeth. On top of these, this treatment can improve one’s overall appearance as well, providing them with a brighter smile.

Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are wafer-thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored material, shaped to look identical to the natural surface of a tooth. These shells are bonded to the front surface of the teeth, while being able to modify their color, shape, and even the appearance of a problematic natural tooth. In cosmetic dentistry, veneers are commonly referred to as a smile makeover, since they have the power to make a set of teeth as beautiful and bright as possible.

As dental veneers address issues like chipped teeth, different-sized teeth, slightly crooked teeth and tooth discoloration, they do not have the capability to replace missing teeth. If you have this kind of tooth issue, you might have to seek restorative dental treatment rather than opting for veneers. Furthermore, these custom shells are permanent which means that they cannot be removed after the placement.

There are actually different types of dental veneers to choose from. Though all of the types have the same goal, they differ on how you want the results to look like, the materials used to create them, and how long they will last. These are actually essential factors to consider as you come to a decision on which type you will be choosing. From porcelain veneers, composite veneers, lumineers, and many other types, it will all still guarantee you a more confident and brighter smile.

Porcelain Veneers

The most common and used type of dental veneers would be the personal veneers. They are actually referred to as the traditional veneers. Being a popular permanent solution for certain dental issues, porcelain veneers have been proven to last for ten years, at least. But with the right dentist and proper maintenance of this treatment, they can even last for over 20 years.

As part of the process for the initial application of the porcelain veneers, dentists will first take an impression of your teeth. They will ensure that the veneers they will be devising would fit perfectly to your existing structure. They might also be applying temporary veneers during this time first, then will be replaced with new porcelain veneers during the next dental visit. Dentists will be modifying what will be installed in the surface of your teeth.

Moreover, dentists will also grind, buff, or use other practices in preparing your teeth for the porcelain application. This procedure helps in giving strength to your teeth. It also helps to reinstate their white look, while mirroring your natural tooth enamel as well. And because of the significant advancements in cosmetic dentistry, the shaping, sculpting, and color treatments available for porcelain have improved. This is so they can look as natural, or even as artificial, as you request them to be.

Porcelain Veneers’ Downside

The only downside to porcelain veneers is that though they are the strongest and the most durable type, they are more difficult to repair in case something chips them. Your teeth beneath the veneers will also be irreversibly reshaped during the application. Though this is the case, you would still not worry about this from happening. They have less chances of getting damaged. Porcelain veneers are made of exceptional hand crafted quality, hardened ceramic, which makes them the trusted solution for everyone.

Composite Veneers

For a cheaper and a less destructive way to improve your smile, composite veneers is a more viable solution. They are also referred to as bonded veneers. And similar to other types, these veneers are polished and smooth as a means of achieving the look of a normal set of teeth. Composite veneers are actually an affordable alternative that can help you for a brighter smile. However, they are more prone to chipping and staining than the porcelain ones. Although, in a way, this is a huge disadvantage for people opting for this solution, composite veneers can be easily repaired.

Composite veneers are made out of tooth-colored filling material, thus being easier to repair if broken. They are less costly than porcelain. Thus, they are not expected to last as long because of the said material. This type of veneer lasts for around five to ten years. But it all depends on how you and your dentist will maintain them. They are also more commonly used as quick solutions and fixes for smaller defects. Such as chipping or teeth closing gaps, or for correcting minor imperfections in teeth.

The actual process entails the method of applying layers of composite to your tooth. Then, they are sculpted to give your desired shape and length. Each layer is then hardened through a curing-light. After this, the composite will be polished to enhance the final result.

Lumineers

Lumineers are one of the types of dental veneers, deemed to be the thinnest, but are the sturdiest ones. They can actually be applied with less teeth preparation. They are usually chosen to cover discoloration or spaces in your teeth. And though it may look very delicate, Lumineers are really very hard wearing. It is primarily because of the material used in devising this solution. Also, they cost less than that of the porcelain veneers as you would expect as well.

Through the application of this dental solution, they do not require grinding, thus, is pain free for the patient. They do not involve needles, drilling, and do not need anesthesia as well. This type is also long lasting, with a span of over 20 years while being completely reversible if preferred. And despite being not thick enough, unlike the other options, their surfaces are smooth and feel natural after they are applied over the teeth surface.

Key Takeaway

Whatever type of dental veneers you will opt for, whether you want to improve your smile through porcelain veneers, composite veneers, lumineers, or any other type available, all of them will provide you with a more enhanced, and brighter smile you have always dreamed of. They will certainly give you that much confidence you aim for. And besides having to improve how your teeth look physically, covering the teeth surfaces with dental veneers are beneficial in treating other dental issues too. To sum all of this up, it has been proven that dental veneers provide an excellent and effective solution for both the sensitive feel in your teeth, and the aesthetic issues as well.