What are dental veneers and what does the veneers process look like? We're here to answer all of your cosmetic dentistry questions in this guide!

At least 7 in 10 Americans feel self-conscious about their smile. While it makes many people cover their mouths when they laugh, some also struggle with low self-esteem and shy away from dating.

Crookedness, gaps, receding gums, and yellowed teeth are the most common things people wish they could change about their smile.

The trouble is, not everyone has the time, money, or good health needed to invest in teeth whitening or orthodontics.

Luckily, dental veneers offer a quick and effective smile solution. Read on to learn about the veneers process so you can decide if it's right for you.

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are thin shells or coverings that a dentist can permanently bond to your teeth. They're also custom made just for you so you can get the smile of your dreams.

Unlike crowns, veneers don't cover the entire tooth. Instead, they attach to the front or the visible part of the tooth.

Veneers look just like real teeth, but they're made in a lab or by your dentist to match the look you want. They can make your existing teeth look whiter, larger, longer, or more uniform in shape.

The Difference Between Porcelain and Resin Veneers

Veneers for teeth come in two different materials: porcelain and resin. While both types can improve your smile, they come with different price points and different procedures. Porcelain veneers are the most common option.

Traditional porcelain veneers are hard ceramic shells. Your dentist will take impressions of your teeth and consult with you about the design you're looking for. Then, they'll send the design to a lab that will make your veneers and bond them to your teeth later on.

For resin veneers, your dentist will reshape your tooth using a tooth-colored composite material or resin. Then they'll bond the resin veneer to your tooth, harden it with a special light, and polish it so it matches the rest of your teeth.

Porcelain veneers behave more like real teeth because they can resist stains, stand up to wear and tear. They also look very much like natural teeth. The downside is they cost more and take longer to make than resin veneers.

Resin veneers are more affordable, but they're more prone to damage and don't last as long as porcelain veneers. But, your dentist can easily fix them in the office.

Types of Dental Problems Veneers Can Solve

Veneers can improve the overall look of your smile. It can make your teeth look whiter, larger, and more uniform in shape. Here are some common dental problems veneers can solve.

Serious tooth discoloration due to a root canal
Broken or chipped teeth
A smile with large gaps or spaces
Discolored teeth that aren't candidates for whitening treatments
Teeth that are unusually small
Misaligned or uneven teeth
Teeth that have an unusual shape

Veneers are a cosmetic dentistry solution that can address many common dental complaints. Talk to your dentist to decide if you're a good candidate for dental veneers.

An Overview of The Veneers Process

The exact veneers process may differ depending on your dentist and your dental needs. Your choice between porcelain and resin veneers will also affect the overall process.

Since porcelain veneers are the most common option, we're outlining that process below.

The Consultation

Once you've decided you're interested in getting dental veneers, you'll need to discuss it with your dentist. Your dentist may offer alternative cosmetic solutions that can also address your concern.

For example, if you have a chipped tooth, they might offer to grind your tooth down to create an even surface. If you have an alignment issue, they might suggest Invisalign as a better treatment for you.

If you are a good candidate for veneers, your dentist may take some x-rays or impressions of your teeth. They'll also discuss what you want your teeth to look like so they can plan a design.

Preparing Your Tooth

At your next appointment, your dentist will prepare your tooth for the veneer. They'll need to remove some of the enamel layer of your tooth to make room for the veneer. Tooth enamel is the strongest material in your body, but your veneer will replace that protective layer.

Once they're prepared your tooth for a veneer, your dentist will make an impression. Then you'll decide what shape and color you want the veneer to have. Finally, they'll send the impression to the lab and give you a temporary veneer.

Bonding the Veneer to Your Tooth

Once the porcelain veneer comes back from the lab, you'll head back to the dentist for the bonding process. It may take several weeks for the lab to make the veneer.

Your dentist will check the fit of the veneer on your tooth and trim the veneer, if necessary. Then, they'll polish and etch your tooth.

Your dentist will apply cement to the veneer and apply it to your tooth. They'll use a special light to harden the cement and permanently bond the veneer to your tooth.

After that, they can make minor adjustments to the veneer and check your bite. They may also have you come back in a few weeks for a follow-up appointment. Now all that's left to do is enjoy your gorgeous new smile.

Transform Your Smile with Dental Veneers Today

If you're looking for a smile transformation, the veneers process is much quicker than dental implants or orthodontics. If you have healthy teeth and gums, dental veneers could be the right choice for you.

Veneers can make you feel happier and more confident by giving you the smile you've always wanted.

Not sure where to begin? At Mount Laurel Dental and Implant Center, we offer dental veneers services in the Mount Laurel Township, NJ area. If you'd like to start the veneers process, contact us today to learn more or to set up an appointment.

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