When teeth are chipped or have other cosmetic flaws, dental veneers can improve the way they look. Veneers can also lower the risk of damage to teeth. At Los Altos Dental, located in Long Beach, California, Dr. Bonnie Bateman offers dental veneers to patients who want to cover up cosmetic flaws that affect their teeth.
Veneers Q & A
What are dental veneers?
Dental veneers are tooth coverings made of porcelain or composite resin. These coverings fit securely over teeth to hide stains, chips, or other flaws, so patients can have a more confident smile. Veneers are customized for each patient’s teeth, which helps ensure they’ll fit comfortably and match the surrounding teeth in appearance.
What should patients expect when getting dental veneers?
Patients can expect to have their teeth prepared for veneers, which involves carefully removing tooth enamel. This reshapes the affected teeth and helps ensure a comfortable fit when veneers are put on. After having teeth reshaped, patients wear temporary dental veneers while a permanent set is made. When the permanent set is ready, it's securely attached to the teeth with resin cement.
What benefits do dental veneers offer?
The main benefit of dental veneers is to improve the appearance of teeth that are flawed, which can help patients feel more confident about smiling and talking to other people. Veneers also lower the risk of damage to the teeth they cover and provide an alternative to more complicated dental treatments, including dental crowns. These more complex types of treatments require the removal of larger amounts of tooth enamel, which means teeth don’t have as much protection from decay and damage.
Which patients are good candidates for dental veneers?
Patients with cosmetic flaws or minor damage to teeth, such as small chips or enamel that has worn away, make suitable candidates for veneers. This type of treatment is also suitable for those with stained teeth, cracked teeth, and teeth that have gaps between them. However, dental veneers aren’t always the best option for patients with tooth flaws. Dr. Bateman evaluates each patient to determine the most suitable type of treatment for hiding cosmetic flaws.
How long do veneers usually last?
Dental veneers are durable and usually last anywhere from 7-20 years when they’re taken care of and made from high-quality material. Good oral care habits, such as brushing teeth at least twice a day and going for dental cleanings, help veneers last longer. Veneers can wear out or become damaged when they’re not properly taken care of.
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