Veneers: Not Just for Hollywood
When you think of veneers, your mind might immediately picture Hollywood smiles gleaming on the red carpet. However, the use of veneers extends far beyond the rich and famous. At Roberts Wellness Dental, we frequently address whether veneers are suitable for everyday people who are simply looking for a brighter, more uniform smile. As your trusted “dentist near me,” we are here to dispel myths and provide clear information about who can benefit from veneers and how to properly care for them.
What Makes Someone a Good Candidate for Veneers?
Veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite resin that are custom-made to fit over your teeth, providing a new front surface. They are an excellent solution for addressing a variety of dental issues, including:
- Chips or cracks in the teeth
- Severe discoloration or uneven staining that teeth whitening can’t correct
- Gaps between teeth or minor misalignments
- Teeth that are too small or have become worn down
A good candidate for veneers is someone with generally healthy teeth and gums who desires a more aesthetic smile. It’s important for patients to have a stable and strong dental foundation, which means that issues like active gum disease, severe tooth decay, or the need for major orthodontic work should be addressed before considering veneers.
The Process of Getting Veneers
The process of getting veneers typically involves a few visits to your “dentist near me” for consultation, fitting, and bonding. Here’s what you can expect at each stage:
- Consultation and Planning: This initial step involves a thorough dental exam at Roberts Wellness Dental to ensure that veneers are the appropriate solution for your dental concerns. We discuss your aesthetic goals and examine your oral health to determine if any preliminary work is needed.
- Preparation: To prepare for veneers, a thin layer of enamel from the front surface of your teeth needs to be removed. This step is crucial as it helps to accommodate the thickness of the veneer, ensuring a natural look and fit. An impression of your teeth is then taken and sent to a dental lab where your custom veneers are created.
- Bonding: Once your veneers are ready, you’ll return for a final fitting. During this visit, the veneers are temporarily placed to check their fit and color. Any necessary adjustments are made. The teeth are then cleaned, and the veneers are bonded to the teeth with a special adhesive and hardened with a curing light.
Caring for Your Veneers
Proper care can extend the life of your veneers significantly. Here are some tips for maintaining them:
- Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day and flossing daily. Use a non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste to avoid scratching the veneers.
- Avoid chewing hard objects such as ice, hard candy, or fingernails to prevent chipping.
- If you grind or clench your teeth at night, consider getting a night guard to protect your veneers from excessive pressure.
When a Different Option Might Be Better
While veneers can transform your smile, they are not suitable for everyone. Situations where other treatments might be better include:
- Extensive Tooth Decay: If a significant portion of the tooth is decayed or damaged, a crown may be a more appropriate option as it covers the entire tooth and provides added strength.
- Severe Misalignment: Orthodontic solutions may be necessary for patients with severely misaligned teeth. Veneers do not correct the actual alignment of the teeth, which could lead to oral health issues down the road.
- Poor Oral Health: Patients with active gum disease or other chronic dental health issues need to address these problems before considering cosmetic treatments like veneers.
At Roberts Wellness Dental, your “dentist near me” in Centralia, we believe that veneers can offer a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking to enhance their smile — not just celebrities. By discussing your specific needs and evaluating your overall dental health, we can determine if veneers are the right choice for you. Whether you’re aiming for a subtle improvement or a dramatic change, veneers could be the key to achieving the smile you’ve always wanted.
If you’re considering veneers or any other dental enhancements, contact Roberts Wellness Dental today. Let us help you understand your options and guide you towards the best choice for your smile and health.
