Veneers

What are veneers?

Veneers are very thin shells of porcelain, the same material in dental crowns. Each custom-crafted veneer conforms to the front of your tooth to provide a completely new tooth surface. 

Another type of veneer, laminates, are even thinner than regular porcelain veneers. Laminates require less tooth preparation than regular porcelain veneers, but they still impressively transform the front of your teeth. 

When might I want veneers?

You might want veneers if you’re looking to improve the appearance of your “smile teeth,” the teeth in the front of your mouth. There are a few different issues that veneers can treat, including:

• Chipped teeth
• Broken teeth
• Misshapen teeth
• Too-small teeth
• Gapped teeth
• Severe tooth discoloration that doesn't improve with teeth whitening

Veneers can cover just one tooth, but they often look best when you cover all your upper front teeth.

While mainly a cosmetic dental procedure, veneers can also help to reinforce your front teeth.

Are veneers different from dental crowns?

Crowns and veneers are different because they serve different needs. While veneers cover the front of the tooth, crowns encase the whole tooth. Dental crowns are also thicker than veneers. 

Generally, if you need tooth restoration that a dental filling can’t fix, a crown’s the best option because it’s very sturdy and protects your whole tooth well. Veneers are typically the favored treatment when you’re looking to improve your smile’s appearance. 

How does the veneers process work?

Before getting veneers, you need an oral health checkup and teeth cleaning. If you have any serious issues, such as cavities or gum disease, you need treatment for that problem before getting your veneers. 

The first part of the porcelain veneers process is tooth prep. That involves lightly etching your teeth to roughen their surface for better adhesion. If you opt for laminates, you won’t need as much tooth preparation.

Next, you need a series of teeth impressions. A dental lab then fabricates individual veneers using your impressions. That usually takes about two weeks. You may receive temporary veneers in the meantime. 

When you return to Brooklyn City Dental, you receive the new veneers, which your dentist expertly positions and attaches to your teeth using special medical adhesive. 

Porcelain veneers are stain-resistant and very durable overall. They can last for years if you take good care of them. 

Composite resin (bonding) is another way to improve the appearance of your teeth. The bonding material is shaped directly onto your teeth, requiring just one dental appointment in most cases.

Brooklyn City Dental is here to educate you about veneers and help you make the best choice for your smile. Click on the online scheduling link or call the office to arrange a consultation.