Veneers have been used for decades to perfect the smile. They’re the reason why so many celebrities have a flawless smile on every red carpet event.
Veneers are commonly thought to be a purely cosmetic treatment to achieve a flawless smile. While it’s true that this treatment is used to straighten, brighten, and make the smile more even, they can be used to treat non-cosmetic dental issues as well.
Here’s what you need to know about veneers and the many non-cosmetic benefits they offer.
What are veneers?
Veneers are thin layers of porcelain or resin that are applied to the teeth. They are often used to change the size, shape, and evenness of the teeth. By covering gaps, discoloration, and other flaws, they can create a picture-perfect smile.
They are permanent but can wear down over time. To maintain the results, they should be replaced every 7-15 years.
Though they greatly improve the smile’s appearance, they also offer non-cosmetic benefits.
Correcting problem teeth
Minor flaws like a chip or crack can be covered using this cosmetic treatment. They can also be used to mask the appearance of gapped or crooked teeth. When the teeth are misaligned, there are crevices that are hard to clean. This increases the risk of tooth decay and other dental health issues.
By straightening the teeth, oral hygiene is easier and much more effective. In some instances, veneers can be used as a dental crown alternative.
Strengthening the teeth
Enamel is one of the strongest materials found in the body. However, due to food, drinks, and poor dental health, enamel wears down over the years, leaving the teeth vulnerable to stains, decay, and other issues.
Veneers can be used to serve as an extra line of defense against weakened tooth enamel. When applied to the teeth, they can keep the teeth strong and protect them from decay.
If you have a chipped or cracked tooth, this treatment can be applied to keep the tooth together to prevent further deterioration.
Reshaping the bite
In some instances, veneers can be used similarly to braces to correct misaligned teeth. Unlike braces, which must be adjusted and removed during the treatment period, veneers permanently reshape your bite.
Compared to braces, this treatment improves your smile’s appearance while fixing misaligned teeth. Depending on the type of misalignment, veneers can be an effective alternative to braces.
Schedule an appointment today!
Interested in learning more about veneers for cosmetic and non-cosmetic purposes? The team at Pacific Dental Care will consider your underlying dental issues to determine if this treatment is a suitable option.
Be aware that having veneers placed takes anywhere from 3-6 weeks. After the initial consultation, temporary ones are made and molds are taken.
Your teeth are then prepared and the temporary veneers are placed. Custom ones are fabricated and once received, they are bonded and secured in place. This process can take 2-4 hours, depending on how many teeth are being treated.
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.