Pick up any magazine or watch any TV show. You’ll quickly note that the people you see seem to have a perfect smile. Not a single crooked or discolored tooth is seen among them. But that doesn’t mean that everyone has naturally perfect teeth. Chances are good that many of them have had dental work done. Specifically, the addition of veneers.
Veneers have been around for nearly 100 years. They were created by California dentist, Charles Pincus for an actor on a film shoot. (Surprised, aren’t you?) These original veneers were made from acrylic and attached to the teeth using denture adhesive. Seeing their value, Dr. Pincus continued to develop his veneers and refined how they could be used. The original veneers were a temporary, albeit effective, solution. Since then, veneers have evolved significantly and are a great way to achieve a more permanent, perfect smile.
How Veneers Give You That Hollywood Smile
Veneers are a great solution for achieving the smile you have always wanted. Some common corrections made using veneers are:
- Correcting dark or yellow stains
- Restoring cracked teeth
- Make teeth uniform in size and shape
- Straighten teeth
- Correct chipped teeth
- Improve worn-looking teeth
- Close gaps between your teeth
Today’s veneers are made from a composite resin or porcelain and made to fit over the front of your teeth. Be sure to seek the advice of your dentist before thinking they are the best option. Note that while porcelain and composite veneers accomplish the same thing, the materials are not the same.
- Composite veneers: Last 4-8 years; will stain like natural teeth; quicker to apply, typically in one visit; less expensive.
- Porcelain veneers: Last 10-15 years; are stain-resistant; will usually take 2 dentist visits to apply; although more costly at the outset because they will last longer, the price usually works out to be the same per year of wearing them as composite.
As with any dental procedure, follow-up care is important. Once your veneers are in place there are several proactive measures you will want to follow.
Keeping Your Veneers Looking Great
1. Brush, floss, and rinse- Use a non-abrasive, fluoridate toothpaste twice a day, and floss then swish some non-alcoholic mouthwash daily.
2. Avoid grinding your teeth.
3. Don’t chew on hard or excessively crunchy items/foods.
4. Wear a mouthguard when playing contact sports.
5. Minimize eating/drinking foods that can cause staining.
6. Visit your dentist at least every six months.
Having veneers added to your teeth can completely transform the way you see yourself. This boost in confidence can make you feel more at ease in social situations or your workplace. Whether you choose to have several teeth covered or just a couple of teeth, you will be glad you made the decision. Bridge Street Dental Center can help, so make your appointment today!
