Dental veneers are a popular cosmetic dental procedure that can help you achieve the perfect smile you have always wanted. However, many people are curious about what their teeth will look like under veneers and what the process involves. This comprehensive guide will answer all your questions about dental veneers and what your teeth will look like once the procedure is completed.
What Are Veneers?
A brief overview of what veneers are made of
Dental veneers are made of either porcelain or composite resin material. Porcelain veneers are thin shells of ceramic that are custom-made to fit over your natural teeth. They are durable, long-lasting, and resist staining from coffee, tea, or other substances. Composite veneers, on the other hand, are made of a tooth-coloured resin material that is applied to the tooth’s surface in layers. They’re easier to use and more economical than porcelain veneers.
Common reasons why people get veneers
People choose to get veneers for various reasons. Some common causes include chipped, broken, or worn teeth, uneven teeth, tooth sensitivity, or to fix the appearance of natural teeth that are discoloured or misshapen. Veneers can also close gaps between teeth as an alternative to a dental crown or implant.
Types of veneers
There are two primary types of veneers, porcelain veneers and composite veneers. Both have their unique features and benefits. Porcelain veneers are extremely durable and provide a more natural-looking appearance. They’re also stain-resistant, which makes them an excellent choice for individuals who regularly consume beverages such as coffee or tea.
Composite veneers, on the other hand, require less invasive preparation, making them a popular choice for individuals who are looking for a more conservative option. They’re also good for people with mild-to-moderate gum disease or those with limited healthy tooth enamel.
What Do Teeth Look Like Under Veneers?
Why is it difficult to determine what teeth look like under veneers?
One of the most significant challenges of determining what teeth look like under veneers is that each veneer is unique to the individual. The materials used to make dental veneers, such as porcelain or composite, are meticulously designed to match the colour, size, and shape of your natural teeth, making it challenging to determine what’s underneath.
How veneers are applied
Applying veneers typically involves removing a thin layer of the tooth’s surface to make room for the veneer. A mould is then created for the veneer, bonded to the tooth with an adhesive. Veneers are custom-made to fit complex shapes and sizes of teeth, and the veneer’s colour will be chosen to match that of your natural teeth or to whiten your teeth if necessary.
What happens to the natural tooth structure during the veneer process?
When getting veneers, your dentist may need to remove a thin layer of your tooth’s surface to make room for the veneer. Discussing the process with your cosmetic dentist to understand any potential long-term effects on your dental health is important. While there may be some changes to your tooth structure during the veneer process, it’s nothing to be scared of as your dentist will take all necessary precautions to ensure minimal impact. Ultimately, veneers can enhance your smile and boost your confidence with little effect on your dental health.
Can You See Through the Veneers? – Factors Affecting the Transparency of Veneers
The transparency of veneers depends on several factors. First, the thickness of the veneer is crucial. Porcelain veneers tend to be thicker than resin veneers, and the wider the veneer, the less translucent it is. The amount of tooth enamel removed during the preparation process also plays a role. If more enamel is removed, the veneer will be thicker and less transparent. The colour of the underlying teeth is another factor. If your natural teeth are dark, the veneers might not look as fine as they would on someone with lighter teeth.
Can X-Rays and Other Medical Imaging Techniques See Through Veneers?
How Can You Care for Teeth After Veneers?
Tips for maintaining good oral hygiene with veneers
After getting veneers, it is crucial to practise good oral hygiene to maintain them. Brush your teeth gently twice daily using a non-abrasive toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Use circular motions to clean the veneer and your natural teeth. Aside from brushing, flossing is also essential for maintaining the health of your gums. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles that can cause gum disease. Finally, use an antiseptic mouthwash to eliminate bacteria and keep your breath fresh.
Foods and drinks to avoid with veneers
Foods and drinks to avoid with veneersWhen it comes to maintaining the durability of your veneers, avoiding certain foods and drinks is essential. Staining foods and beverages can cause discolouration on your natural teeth and veneers.
Avoid foods and drinks such as red wine, coffee, tea, coke, berries, soy sauce, curry, balsamic vinegar, popsicles, dark chocolate, and tomato sauce. If you must consume any of these items, rinse your mouth afterwards to remove any residue that could cause stains.
How long do veneers last?
When it comes to dental veneers, you want to make them last as long as possible. Porcelain veneers typically last between 7 and 15 years, while composite veneers can last up to 7 years. However, the durability of your veneers will depend on your oral hygiene habits, such as brushing, flossing, and diet. Regular visits to your cosmetic dentist are crucial to maintaining the health of your teeth.
FAQs About Veneers and Tooth Appearance
What are some common misconceptions about veneers?
One of the most common misconceptions about veneers is that they are bad for your teeth. The truth is veneers can help protect your teeth. The thin layer of porcelain or composite material used to make veneers covers the tooth’s surface, providing additional protection against damage, tooth sensitivity, and gum disease. Another misconception is that veneers require a lot of maintenance. In reality, porcelain veneers are very durable and require only good oral hygiene practices like regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. They are also stain-resistant, so you won’t have to worry about teeth whitening as you would with natural teeth.
Conclusion
In summary, the appearance of teeth under veneers is an important consideration for anyone looking to improve their smile through this popular cosmetic dentistry procedure. Veneers can offer significant advantages in appearance, but they also require careful consideration and maintenance to ensure that they look and feel natural. By understanding these factors and working with our skilled and experienced dental professionals, you can achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of. If you’re interested in veneers, contact the Beyond 32 Dental team on (02) 9158 6334 today to learn more.
References
A systematic review and meta-analysis of the survival of non-feldspathic porcelain veneers over 5 and 10 years
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23476903/
Porcelain for veneers
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9893514/
Veneers
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/veneers
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