Over time, your teeth can start to show signs of natural wear and tear. These include staining, gaps, chips, cracks, and misalignments. Have you become self-conscious about your smile because of any of these cosmetic concerns? Maybe it's about time you consider getting dental veneers, which are cosmetic devices that can improve the appearance of your teeth. 

Are You a Good Candidate for This Procedure?

Most people who deal with minor dental problems can benefit from veneers. But if you suffer from tooth decay, gum disease, or simply have poor dental health in general, your dentist will likely recommend waiting until those conditions have been treated. Otherwise, veneers may not work for you. They may also suggest a different procedure, depending on your case. 

What to Expect When Receiving Veneers

How the procedure goes largely depends on the kind of veneers you choose. If you opt to get porcelain veneers, the process starts with your dentist removing some enamel from your affected teeth. Then, they will create a mold by taking an impression of your teeth. After this initial appointment, your dentist will send the mold to a laboratory to fabricate your custom-fit veneers. They will likely recommend temporary veneers on your teeth as you wait for the laboratory to finish making the permanent ones. On your next visit, your dentist will test whether the veneers fit well or not. They will also check if the color matches your existing teeth and make any adjustments if necessary. Once satisfied, they will bond the porcelain veneers to your teeth. 

If you chose resin-based composite dental veneers, your dentist would clean, reshape, and prepare your teeth. They, they will bond and sculpt the material. Your dentist will adjust the color so your veneers look natural in your mouth. They will cure the material with the use of light. Once they have dried and hardened, your dentist will smooth and polish the veneers so they'd look and feel exactly just like real teeth. 

Aftercare Tips

Dental veneers can break and fail over time. But with proper care and maintenance, these thin covers that can transform your smile in significant ways can last between 10 to 20 years. 

You need to care for your veneers just as you would with your natural teeth. Remember that you can still develop cavities and suffer from tooth decay even if you already received dental veneers. So, you must practice proper dental hygiene. You should brush your teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Also, don't forget to floss each day. Experts also recommend that you rinse your mouth with the right mouthwash once or twice each day. Avoid chewing on hard foods, biting hard objects, or opening items with your teeth. Always wear a mouthguard during contact sports. If you tend to grind or clench your teeth during sleep, ensure that you get them treated. Equally important is to see your dentist for regular checkups.