Veneers

Dental Veneers and Dental Laminates

Patients who want to improve the appearance of their smiles may consider dental veneers or laminates. Although people often use the two terms interchangeably, they have some differences. Both procedures can help improve a patient’s smile. Knowing the difference between them can help you choose the best option for you.

From color to size and shape, dental veneers and laminates can provide a solution for people who want a better-looking smile. These procedures are available at Smile Fresh Dental in Auburn Hills and the surrounding area. Call us at (248)-255-4585 to schedule a consultation and learn which option is the best for you.

Understanding Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are thin coatings of porcelain or composite resin covering the teeth to repair minor damage and improve the appearance of stains or discoloration. Some of the common issues that veneers can correct include gaps, misshapen teeth, cracks, chips, staining, and discoloration. Patients must have enamel removal and tooth reshaping to allow the veneer to stay flat without being bulky.

Patients can choose between porcelain veneers or composite resin veneers. Porcelain veneers usually last longer than composite resin ones. They resist staining and tend to be stronger and more durable. Composite resin veneers can be completed in a single dental visit, while porcelain veneers typically require two dental visits. Composite resin also preserves more of the patient's tooth enamel and tends to cost less than porcelain but is more prone to breakage.

Placing Dental Veneers

To place porcelain veneers, the cosmetic dentist must remove enamel from the tooth’s surface so the thin shell can adhere to it. A dental lab technician then creates custom veneers with teeth molds and color-matches them to the patient’s teeth. Then the shells are bonded to the patient's teeth using special dental cement.

For composite resin veneers, we remove the tooth enamel first. The composite resin, which matches the natural enamel, covers and reshapes the teeth to improve the appearance. After, a special light seals the resin to the underlying teeth. Finally, we file the veneers to achieve a natural appearance.

Dental Veneer and Laminate Aftercare

The Canadian Dental Association explains that good dental hygiene is essential to maintain the appearance and function of new veneers. Brushing and flossing after meals and visiting the dentist for regular check-ups are critical aspects of proper maintenance. Skipping these steps can cause decay and cavities to develop between or under the veneer shells.

Veneers and laminates can also crack, break or loosen under pressure. Patients should avoid chewing hard candies, ice, or similar items. During the first few days after the procedure, patients should stick to soft foods and avoid consuming nuts, hard bread, popcorn, and seeds. Wearing a bite guard at night can help prevent grinding that may wear down veneers. Veneers are more prone to staining than laminates, so we also recommend patients avoid substances like tobacco, red wine, and coffee.

Veneers are thin shells of tooth-shaped porcelain placed over a tooth's surface. At Smile Fresh Dental Grand Blanc, they are meant to cover up aesthetic flaws, such as stains and chips, to help you achieve an attractive smile. They can also be used to cover small gaps in between teeth and help hide slightly misaligned teeth. Teeth that are too small can also be covered with veneers. In some cases, they can protect teeth from additional damage. Once in place, your veneers are durable enough to last many years. 

The Procedure for Veneers

The first appointment will include preparing your teeth for the veneers and taking impressions of them to create custom restorations. The second appointment is for bonding them to your teeth. We will discuss the procedure steps with you ahead of time so you know exactly what to expect.

When you receive veneers, you will be able to care for them the same way you would for your natural teeth. Brushing and flossing twice daily and visiting our office regularly for cleanings and exams will ensure that your veneers last for several years.

The Benefits of Veneers

Veneers are thin, porcelain shells that fit over the front surface of your teeth to improve their appearance. They are often used to mask the appearance of teeth that are discolored or misshapen but may also be used to cover gaps between teeth or to protect the surface of damaged teeth.

Veneers require little to no preparation before being placed, so the process is much more straightforward than dental crowns. Because less tooth structure is removed to place them, they do not require as much enamel removal as dental crowns, making them ideal for patients with little natural tooth material remaining. In addition, their placement is reversible because they are not bonded to the tooth like crowns. 

Patients appreciate how natural they look and how simple the procedure is compared to other types of cosmetic dentistry. And because they are made of stain-resistant materials, your veneers will maintain their original brightness for many years without fading.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Are dental laminates and veneers comfortable?

A. Dental laminates and veneers may feel strange at first. Most patients become accustomed to their laminates or veneers a few days after the procedure. Patients should let their cosmetic dentists know about any bite problems as adjustments may be needed.

Q. Should I choose porcelain or composite dental veneers?

A. Patients should make their decision based on their desired results and the current state of their teeth. We usually recommend porcelain for patients with crooked or misshapen teeth, gaps, and cracks. Composite veneers may be a better choice for patients with stained or minorly chipped teeth.

Q. How long do dental veneers last?

A. Most dental veneers last between seven to 15 years. Proper care is necessary to extend the life of veneers. Visiting the dentist regularly and following aftercare instructions can also help veneers last longer.

Q. Can I get dental veneers for my entire mouth?

A. Dental veneers are used only on the front teeth and are not appropriate for molars. The exact number of veneers depends on the state of the teeth and the patient's esthetic goals. Most people opt for an even number of veneers, commonly two, four, eight, 10, or 12.

Q. Will I experience pain when receiving dental veneers?

A. Local anesthetics numb the patient before removing tooth enamel and installing veneers. After the procedure, it is common to experience mild soreness affecting the jawbone and gums. Over-the-counter pain medication can reduce this discomfort.

Q. What should I do if my dental veneers fall off?

A. If damage occurs, the veneer may loosen and eventually come off. Patients should see their cosmetic dentists in these cases. Do not attempt to reattach the veneer at home with glue or any other substance. Avoid hot and cold foods and beverages since the exposed tooth may be sensitive because of the removed enamel.