Are dental veneers right for me, do they hurt, how long do they last, do I have to give up my favourite foods? And what do they cost?
Dental veneers are the simplest way to transform your smile. Are they right for you?
What are dental veneers?
Veneers are super-thin layers that are bonded to the surface of your natural teeth to mask problems and create a more perfect smile.
Am I a good candidate for dental veneers?
Dental veneers are a great option if you are looking for a smile makeover. They can mask teeth which are discoloured, chipped, misaligned uneven or oddly shaped. Front teeth are usually the most common site for veneers.
When is it not ideal to get veneers?
People with extensive tooth decay should not look to simply cover it up with veneers. First the decay must be treated and eradicated. If you grind your teeth, you may not be a good candidate for veneers. But your dentist may be able to offer a solution such as a mouth night guard.
What are the advantages of dental veneers?
Firstly, veneers look great. And, you can select the colour that best flatters your skin tone and looks natural. Also, porcelain veneers are stain-resistant. The procedure is fairly easy on your original teeth since only a small amount of the existing tooth structure is removed. Finally, gum tissues usually respond well to dental veneers.
What should I know before deciding to get veneers?
You should know that the procedure of preparing your teeth for veneers is not reversible.
If you’re a nail-biter or a pen chewer beware, veneers can crack. If your veneer cracks, it can’t be repaired – the whole thing must be replaced.
Your dental hygiene must be tip-top because you need healthy gums in order to have veneers fitted. Also, having veneers does not protect your teeth from decay, so maintaining your daily brushing and flossing is vital. You must also see your dentist regularly.
How long do dental veneers last?
A typical veneer can last between 5 and ten years, some even up to 15 with excellent care. Like normal teeth, veneers should receive a professional cleaning every six months. Wearing a bite guard at night can help to prolong the life of veneers.
Does the process hurt?
The procedure is painless due to local anaesthetics. Post-procedure soreness of gums and jaws is easily treated with over-the-counter pain relief.
What can I eat and what foods should I avoid?
Initially, you’ll probably be advised to eat soft foods and after a while you can branch out. It’s always wise to avoid hard crunchy foods like pumpkin seeds, popcorn, boiled sweets, toffee apples, hard biscuits like biscotti.
What habits should I avoid or stop?
Apart from nail biting, pen chewing and nibbling on forks and straws, don’t try to open things with your teeth.
What happens if one of my veneers comes off?
Firstly, please don’t panic. Do your best to save the veneer. Whatever you do, don’t try to glue it back on. Call your dentist immediately. In cases like this, an appointment will be given to you as soon as possible.
How much do veneers cost?
Veneers are priced from £680 at The Dentist.