Did you recently damage a tooth? You’re not alone. According to the World Health Organization, one billion people sustain oro-dental traumas. Damaging your teeth, mouth, or oral cavity can lead to tooth loss if you delay treatment.
Even a small chip or crack can affect your ability to chew. Getting veneers in Columbia, SC can restore your smile and oral health.
On the fence about a smile makeover? Read on to learn more about teeth veneers services before deciding!
What Are Veneers?
Veneers are custom-made shells. They’ll adhere to the front surface of a tooth to conceal a cosmetic imperfection. This can include:
- Cracks
- Stains
- Chips
- Smaller-than-average teeth
They’re one of the most common cosmetic dentistry treatments for restoring damaged teeth. Your dentist will use high-quality dental materials when creating them. Common materials include porcelain and composite.
While some patients only receive one veneer to restore a damaged tooth, others get between six and eight. Requesting multiple veneers can create a symmetrical, even smile. They’re often applied to the top front teeth.
Ideal Patients
Your dentist may recommend a smile makeover with veneers if you want to improve the appearance of your smile. This cosmetic dentistry procedure is ideal for patients with:
- Teeth that are too small
- Broken or chipped teeth
- Misshapen teeth
- Stains (not resolved by whitening treatment)
- Gaps or spaces between teeth (diastema)
However, you’re not an ideal patient for this form of treatment if you have gum disease or cavities. Your dentist will recommend that you address any serious oral health issues first.
The Benefits
Before receiving dental veneers in Columbia, weigh the pros and cons. Dental veneers can:
- Enhance the appearance of your smile
- Blend in with natural teeth
- Resist staining better than natural teeth
Your dental veneers won’t require additional maintenance. They should last between 10 and 15 years. Their survival rate is 91% after 20 years.
Patient satisfaction rates range from 80 to 100%. You can extend their longevity by scheduling routine dental appointments.
The Disadvantages
There are some disadvantages to consider before receiving treatment. To ensure the veneers adhere to your teeth, your dentist will remove some of your existing enamel. You may experience some sensitivity to hot or cold.
Many veneers aren’t reversible. Talk to your cosmetic dentist to determine if veneers are your best treatment option.
Veneers vs. Crowns
While exploring your cosmetic dentistry options, you may feel stuck between veneers and crowns. Veneers only cover the front surface of a tooth. Crowns, however, cover the entire tooth structure.
A dental crown can give a damaged or decayed tooth with strength and protection. They improve the appearance of your smile and restore weakened teeth. Veneers, on the other hand, don’t provide strength.
Teeth Veneers Services
There are a few different types of veneers available. When choosing, consider:
- Longevity
- Appearance
- Length of time to install
- Cost
Veneers can cost on average $1,500 to $2,500 per tooth. However, the cost will vary based on the materials used. Your cosmetic dentist will help you make an informed choice based on your needs.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers can address a variety of dental imperfections. They’re custom-made to fit over your existing teeth.
Before you receive your veneers, your dentist will grind down your teeth. They’ll make an impression of your teeth to send to a lab where your veneers will be made.
You may need to receive temporary veneers while you wait. Once they’re ready, your dentist will place and cement the veneer into place.
Some dentists use CAD/CAM technology to allow a computer to design the veneer. They can even make the veneers in their clinic.
Composite Resin Veneers
Your dentist will etch the surface of your tooth before applying a layer of composite material over it. They use the material to sculpt your veneer. To complete your treatment, they’ll use a curing light to harden the veneer into place.
No-Prep Veneers
No-prep veneers include specific brands like Lumineers and Vivaneers. These are less invasive to apply to your teeth. Treatment will take less time.
Your dentist won’t remove a layer of the tooth beneath your protective enamel. These veneers only affect your enamel.
The Process
Before receiving your dental veneers in Columbia, schedule a consultation appointment. Your dentist will determine how many veneers to place. You can also discuss the types of veneers they have available.
If your teeth are uneven or crooked, you may need orthodontic treatment first. Your dentist will use X-rays to evaluate the health of your teeth. If you have an oral health condition, you may not be a candidate for veneers.
Your dentist will trim half a millimeter of the tooth and make a mold of your teeth. You may need to wait a week or two while the lab makes your veneers.
Your dentist will place the veneers. They’ll evaluate the shape, color, and fit to make sure they meet your expectations. They’ll also clean your teeth to keep bacteria from getting trapped underneath.
To bond the veneer onto the tooth, your dentist will use dental cement and harden it with an ultraviolet light. This appointment shouldn’t take longer than two hours.
Aftercare
The recovery process after receiving veneers doesn’t take long. You can chew and eat as you normally would after the anesthetic wears off.
It’s normal for the veneer to feel rough at first. These spots will wear down after you eat and brush your teeth. If they don’t, consult your dentist.
To improve the longevity of your veneers:
- Don’t grind or clench your teeth
- Wear a mouthguard when playing sports
- Avoid chewing with your front teeth
- Wear a retainer at night if you have bruxism
- Don’t chew hard objects (pens/pencils, ice, nails, etc.)
- Brush twice a day with nonabrasive fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily
- Schedule routine dental cleanings
Get Your Veneers in Columbia, SC
Dental veneers can restore a damaged smile to improve your appearance. Consider getting your veneers in Columbia, SC soon. With treatment, you can smile with renewed confidence in your beautiful teeth!
Trust our restorative and cosmetic dentistry team at Lockhart Dental. Our personalized treatments can restore your smile and oral health.
We’re dedicated to providing exceptional care through high-quality services. We prioritize patient care and satisfaction. Trust our state-of-the-art technology and personalized care.
Schedule a consultation appointment today.