- What are dental veneers?
- What are the different types of veneers?
- Applying veneers to your teeth
- Proper care for veneers
- How long do veneers last?
Have you ever watched award shows and wondered how your favourite celebrities have such sparkling white teeth? Chances are they’re wearing veneers to flash the brightest, most beautiful smile for the cameras.
The good news is that veneers aren’t just for celebrities. If you’re looking for a perfect smile with veneers in Toronto, all it takes is a visit to your dentist to get the Hollywood look you’ve always dreamed about!
What are dental veneers?
Veneers are thin, custom-made cosmetic shells that dentists apply on the tooth surface to improve the appearance of teeth. They help preserve a white tooth colour, provide a natural tooth shape, reduce gaps, and hide chips and other minor damage to weakened teeth.
Dental veneers are for anyone who needs a long-term solution for:
- Stained teeth
- Uneven teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Discoloured or dark teeth
- Broken teeth
- Chipped teeth
- Damaged teeth
Veneers are an excellent option for patients who want improved confidence and self-esteem when they smile. After a veneer treatment, you might even start smiling more!
If you think you might be a good candidate for veneers, consult with your dentist. They will examine your smile and present you with the different dental treatments available to you. Your dentist will also answer your questions about veneers, including the differences between the two different types.
What are the different types of veneers?
There are two types of veneers: porcelain and resin-based. The type of veneer someone usually chooses depends on their budget, needs, and preferences.
Porcelain veneers: Porcelain veneers are a strong, thin shell placed on the top and sides of your teeth. They tend to offer a more natural toothlike appearance and can be whitened for the brightest smile possible. Porcelain veneers are generally stronger and last longer than the composite resin-based veneers. Porcelain veneers also do not discolour over time whereas resin-based veneers are susceptible to staining.
Resin-based composite veneers: This type is similar to porcelain veneers but is more easily replaced if they become broken or damaged. The application process is generally easier on the patient than porcelain veneers. You can complete the entire procedure in just one visit to your dentist.
Your dentist can help you decide which type of dental veneer will work best for your needs.
Applying veneers to your teeth
The dental application procedure depends on the type of veneer you’ve chosen. In both cases, your dentist will take extra steps to make sure you’re as comfortable as possible during this common cosmetic procedure.
Porcelain veneers application procedure
- First, your dentist will shave a thin layer of enamel (sometimes less than .5 of a millimetre) to help prepare the tooth for fitting and bonding of the veneers
- A mold is made of your teeth
- Your dentist creates and applies temporary veneers to your teeth to replace the removed enamel until your permanent veneers are ready
- The molds are sent away to a laboratory to fabricate the permanent veneers
- Once your permanent veneers are ready, you return to the dentist to have the temporary veneers replaced with the permanent set
- Your dentist will make any necessary adjustment to the permanent veneers
Resin-based composite veneers application procedure
- The dentist cleans, reshapes, and prepares the tooth for the veneer
- You and your dentist will choose a colour that matches the rest of your teeth for the most natural look
- The dentist layers and shapes the resin onto your tooth or teeth
- The composite material is dried and hardened using a bright light
- After the veneers have been set, the dentist will smooth and polish them so that they look and feel like natural teeth.
You might notice rough patches on composite resin veneers. These patches should improve over time. If they don’t, your dentist may be able to smooth them out.
In the meantime, your dental team will advise you how to take care of your veneers, so they look great and function exactly as you need them to.
Proper Care for Veneers
After your veneers are attached, you won’t have to avoid any particular foods or beverages. However, resin-based veneers may stain over time, just like tooth enamel. To keep them shiny, it might be a good idea to avoid things that can cause discolouration, such as coffee, tea, red wine, blueberries, and more.
Your dentist may also advise against:
- Grinding your teeth, a condition known as bruxism
- Biting hard objects and fingernails
- Chewing very hard foods
- Opening items with your teeth
Taking care of your veneers properly will help them look great and last as long as possible.
How long do veneers last?
Your veneers should last around ten years, depending on the materials used and if you clean and maintain them properly. After this time, you may need a dental visit to have new veneers attached.
Remember: you can still get cavities if you have veneers. Be sure to continue practicing good oral health, including brushing twice and flossing once per day, and regularly visiting your dentist for checkups.
Always keep your dental team apprised of how your veneers are working at every dental checkup. After all, your dental team is your partner in maintaining healthy white smiles so you’re always ready for your next Hollywood closeup!
What are veneers and who are they for? Find out from the team at Yonge Eglinton Dental in Toronto.
Are you a good candidate for your brighter, whiter dream smile with veneers? Come see us at Yonge Eglinton Dental! Our dental team will answer all of your questions and give you our best advice for a healthy smile and maintaining your overall well-being. Make an appointment today by calling our office at 416-932-2222 or booking online. We look forward to seeing you!
Are you concerned about visiting the dentist? Read about how we protect the health and safety of our patients and staff so your family can seek proper dental care with peace of mind.
