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Alpine Vista Dental is proud to provide our valued patients with the latest treatments in cosmetic dentistry, including veneers. These can be used to address issues such as significant discoloration, chips and cracks, and even minor misalignments of teeth. Veneers are ultra-thin custom-molded shells made of tooth-colored porcelain or composite materials that fit over the front surface of teeth. Alpine Vista Dental can help simplify your smile transformation with the selection and application of the best veneers for you. Come in to find out more about how this procedure is an easy way to invest in a stunning smile makeover!
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are bonded to the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. Veneers are known for being more conservative by maintaining more natural tooth structure than other procedures like crowns. The total reduction necessary for veneers is generally fairly minimal from about 0.3mm to 1.5mm. A consultation with Dr. O’Donnell would shed light on just how conservatively they can be made.
Veneers are typically made of porcelain or, less commonly, composite resin. Porcelain veneers come in many varieties that balance aesthetics with strength.
Veneers are a great way to manage a range of cosmetic issues, including undesirable coloration, chips, cracks, gaps, misalignment, and misshapen teeth. Many times, veneers offer a final esthetic outcome that would be otherwise impossible. For example, someone who has tried to whiten their teeth multiple times, but the teeth still appear dark or unattractive, would benefit from veneers.
Veneers are a great solution for many dental cosmetic issues but have some important limitations. People whose teeth are well aligned and otherwise healthy should avoid any irreversible or “reductive” procedures until all other options like whitening or reshaping have been thoroughly discussed. Since the tooth structure doesn’t grow back, it is best to keep veneers as an alternative treatment, rather than the primary option. Additionally, since veneers tend to be very thin, we may recommend more robust treatments for heavy clenchers and grinders.
The mouth is a hostile place for any restoration. All restorations, if left long enough, will eventually break down. When we speak about how long a restoration can last, we tend to give averages for other patients with similar treatment. With proper care, porcelain veneers typically last 10-15 years, while composite veneers typically last 5-7 years.
Brush and floss regularly. Decay is the primary reason for a veneer to fail. Fortunately, decay is preventable. Avoid biting into hard objects like carrots or tearing into foods like jerky or apples. Finally, ensure you maintain a regular appointment with a dental hygienist for regular checkups and cleanings.
In general, porcelain veneers are highly stain-resistant. Due to their porosity, composite veneers tend to be more susceptible to stain over time.
Depending on your specific needs, alternatives might include teeth whitening, reshaping, bonding, or orthodontics. We always advocate maintaining natural tooth structure if it is possible to achieve the same esthetic result without veneers.