The Beginner’s Guide to Veneers: Basic Types and Benefits
Dental veneers are “shells” or “films” placed over teeth to cover up staining, small cracks, and worn-down enamel. They act as aesthetic coverings for your teeth.
3 Basic Types of Dental Veneers
1. Ceramic Veneers
Ceramic material is a popular choice for veneers. With high resistance against bacteria, the bioinert characteristic of ceramic lowers the risk of plaque accumulation around teeth.
Although ceramic veneers may take a while before they are completed and ready for application on patients’ teeth, they offer longevity compared to other dental restoration materials.
Additionally, ceramic veneers can be made so that their hue matches that of your natural teeth. They can blend in seamlessly with the rest of your pearly whites. It will be hard for others to distinguish them from your real teeth.
2. Porcelain Veneers
This type of veneer is often referred to as porcelain laminates. Your gums can tolerate this material without any complications. Once the laminate is bonded onto a tooth, it will be as if it is a part of the tooth itself.
Much like ceramic veneers, dental porcelain veneers have an aesthetic that closely matches that of actual teeth. Your dentist in Westport can even provide you with various shade options if you want veneers that resemble your natural teeth more closely.
Furthermore, porcelain veneers aid in preventing future discoloration as they are resistant to staining.
3. Composite Veneers
Composite veneers are most notable for their lower cost. Patients who are budget-conscious and yet wish to have durable laminates can opt for composites. They are the same material used for dental fillings.
Unlike porcelain veneers, composite veneers are added in layers until the final shape is achieved. Our dentist at Westport will harden each layer with light before applying the next. Composite veneers require sculpting and curing after being adhered to the teeth.
On top of this, composite veneers have good reversibility. Reversibility in this context refers to how easily it can be replaced and renewed whenever needed.
Dental Veneer Benefits
We have explained a few advantages of veneers according to the material type above. Now, here is a detailed list of benefits you can get with these teeth coverings.
1. Easy and Simple Procedure
Most patients push aside visits to a dentist near them because they fear the discomfort that certain procedures may entail. However, with veneers being solely for minor tooth repair, this dental procedure is generally straightforward and painless.
If you want to achieve a radiant smile without spending a lot of time in a dentist’s chair, laminates are the way to go. In just one or two visits, you will be able to leave our dental practice with a more beautiful smile.
2. Non-Invasive to Minimally Invasive
Veneer procedures are minimally invasive. Teeth that will be covered with veneers may need some slight shaving. Our cosmetic dentist will also get rid of portions that are slightly damaged (i.e., stained, cracked, etc.).
The layer of enamel that is removed is as thin as the veneer itself. In fact, veneer procedures involve trimming off no more than half a millimeter off the front or incisal side of the tooth. That is a number far less and far smaller than that of other restorative approaches.
3. Easy Maintenance
Maintaining veneers is like maintaining natural teeth. As long as you brush them regularly, they will continue to look as good as new.
A composite resin may incur minor discoloration over time. However, they can be fixed or replaced. Porcelain veneers, on the other hand, can keep their original color for a longer duration than different material types.
You also will not need many return check-ups to your dentist. Regular tooth inspections are all that is required after having laminates applied to your teeth.
Learn more: What dental issues can veneers fix?
For a near-permanent tooth-whitening option, consider getting dental veneers at Advanced Dental of Westport, CT.