3 Signs You May Need Veneers

Having a beautiful smile is crucial for many people. However, not everyone is pleased with their smile. Veneers are a wonderful treatment option that can be used to help improve the appearance of teeth. These thin, tooth-colored shells are typically made out of porcelain and cover the entire surface of the tooth.

Veneers are customized and shaped to ensure a proper fit for each patient and have a natural and realistic appearance that is indistinguishable from the natural teeth. This simple procedure involves the removal of a small amount of enamel from the surface of the teeth to help ensure the veneer will properly bond, then cementing it in place using ultraviolet light.

When veneers may be needed

Veneers can be used to fix numerous minor issues and quickly transform a smile. The following are three situations in which a patient might need this treatment option.

1. Discolored teeth

Discolored teeth are a common problem for many people and often result from issues including poor dental hygiene, tobacco use, and the consumption of certain foods and beverages. Patients who have stained and discolored teeth and are unable to use typical whitening products with success may want to consider veneers as a treatment option. These will help to instantly whiten a patient’s smile after placement.

2. Misaligned teeth

Teeth that are slightly misaligned, irregular, and uneven may be fixed with the help of veneers. They can be used to reshape the teeth and give them a straighter appearance. Veneers should only be used for minor misalignments that do not cause bite issues.

3. Chipped teeth

Many dental patients find themselves dealing with teeth that have become chipped, cracked, or broken. Veneers are a treatment option to easily restore teeth that have become damaged. The veneer can be customized to match the color of the surrounding teeth, resulting in a seamless look.

Caring for veneers

It is important for patients with veneers to maintain proper dental hygiene. This includes brushing, flossing, and rinsing. Routine visits to the dentist are crucial. Patients with bruxism, which is grinding and clenching of the teeth, will need to wear a nightguard to protect veneers from chipping or breaking. While veneers are very durable, patients should be sure to exercise care when chewing on hard items to avoid potentially chipping and breaking them. It is recommended to avoid eating ice.

Veneers can be stained the same as natural teeth. Patients should limit foods and drinks that are known to discolor teeth, such as coffee, tea, and berries. Those who smoke may want to quit to avoid staining. Veneers are durable and long-lasting when properly cared for.