Dental veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry option for enhancing or completely transforming smiles. These thin but durable custom-made ceramic facings cover the front surface of the teeth, concealing imperfections, changing colors or shapes, and creating a more uniform, symmetrical appearance.
At Leavitt Dentistry, we understand the importance of educating our patients and helping them to make informed decisions about their oral health. Our goal is to give each patient exactly what they are looking for and to be open and truthful about what’s possible with each smile. That’s why we’ve compiled this helpful guide answering some of the most frequently asked questions about veneers.
#1. What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are thin but durable custom-made ceramic facings that cover the front surface of the teeth. They’re made of composite resin or porcelain, a special, strong but beautiful ceramic. The material used is based on expected longevity, color stability, and the extent to which it needs to be changed.
We will help you determine the best material for your unique situation. Veneers are custom-crafted to fit perfectly over the front surface of the teeth, covering or removing minor imperfections such as chips, cracks, discoloration, or irregularities in size and shape. They are securely bonded to the natural teeth, providing a durable solution that looks and feels natural.
#2. What Issues Can Dental Veneers Correct?
As a versatile cosmetic dentistry solution, dental veneers can address a number of aesthetic concerns, including:
- Eroded or worn-down enamel
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Spaces or gaps between teeth
- Irregularly shaped teeth
- Stains or discoloration that do not respond to whitening treatments
- Unevenly sized teeth
#3. Are Veneers Safe for Teeth?
When dental veneers are placed by a qualified, experienced, and highly trained dentist like Dr. Leavitt, they are very safe and predictable. We always avoid removing any tooth structure or enamel that can be preserved while attaining the desired result.
At Leavitt Dentistry, patient safety and comfortable, long-lasting outcomes are our top priority. We use high-quality materials and cutting-edge techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes. With proper care and maintenance, veneers can provide long-lasting improvement without compromising the integrity of the natural teeth.
In the past, teeth had to be shaved down significantly to accommodate veneers. Thanks to modern dental technology and innovative materials, many veneers now require minimal preparation. We take a conservative and minimally invasive approach, preserving as much of the natural tooth structure as possible when preparing to apply veneers.
#4. How Long Do Dental Veneers Last?
Dental veneers can last for decades if properly cared for with regular home care and recommended dental checkups. Many of our patients are enjoying the veneers that we designed for them over 20 years ago, still looking like they were placed yesterday. Regular care and proper use of your teeth are the key to longevity. You can eat whatever you desire with veneers without concern.
#5. Do Veneers Look Natural?
When dental veneers are properly designed and placed, they are virtually undetectable and complete beautiful smiles. We take great care when crafting veneers to ensure they blend seamlessly with the natural teeth and the specific smile and face, taking into account their shape, color, translucency, and fit. Our skilled team works closely with each patient to customize their veneers, ensuring they achieve their aesthetic goals while maintaining a natural-looking smile.
We work closely with only the very best lab technicians to ensure the process and the results are as good as they can possibly be. We also often do a “test drive” to give each patient an idea of the goal, with a chance for feedback and careful evaluation before we even start the veneer process. This allows our patient to see the possibilities in their own mouth before the process begins and then to work guiding that final result as our end goal.
#6. How Are Veneers Applied?
We have worked hard to perfect our process for the best possible outcomes. It has proven to keep our patients in the driver’s seat and give them just what they hope for:
- Consultation: The initial consultation allows us to assess your oral health, discuss your treatment expectations and goals, and assess whether you’re a good candidate for dental veneers.
- Test drive: Often, this can be done at the same consultation visit. We mold temporary veneers in your mouth so you can see what’s possible and give your feedback about what you truly want. This is a crucial step for you to see it all come to life before the process begins and before you are committed to treatment.
- Preparation: Any surface stains, cracks, imperfections, or old fillings are removed; gum tissue may need to be shaped with a laser for ideal positioning; and the tooth’s shape is fine-tuned to best hold the veneer. Normally, minimal enamel is removed, only that which will allow the optimal result, but never enough to cause any harm to the tooth. We then take a digital scan or impressions of your teeth, which will be used to create custom veneers. We then use our guide from your test drive to create temporary veneers that look very close to the end result, which you will wear for a few weeks while your ceramic veneers are being made.
- Fabrication: Your dental veneers will be custom-made at a high-tech, attention-detailed lab using high-quality materials, precise measurements, and the utmost attention to detail.
- Bonding: Once your veneers are ready, we remove the temporaries and bond the permanent veneers to the surface of your teeth with a strong, comfortable dental adhesive. Before finalizing the bonding process, we will ensure the proper fit, placement, and alignment. You are now ready to love your new smile!
#7. How Do I Care for Dental Veneers?
Caring for dental veneers is similar to caring for natural teeth. The key is developing good oral hygiene habits, including:
- Brushing thoroughly twice a day with a non-abrasive toothpaste and soft-bristled brush to remove bacteria, plaque, and food particles
- Flossing daily to remove debris and plaque from between the teeth and around the gum line
- Avoiding biting or chewing on hard, non-food objects to prevent damage to your natural teeth or the veneers
- Attending regular recommended check-ups at our office to monitor oral health and the integrity of the veneers
Transform Your Smile With Veneers From Leavitt Dentistry
At Leavitt Dentistry, we have helped countless patients achieve more confident smiles through our versatile cosmetic dentistry solutions, including professional whitening, implants, bonding, veneers, bridges, and more. Take a look at our Smile Gallery to see examples of our work — the results speak for themselves!
If you’re interested in exploring cosmetic dentistry options and learning more about how dental veneers can transform your smile, take advantage of a free virtual consultation with Dr. Leavitt.
