Many people long for a bright, flawless smile that lights up a room and leaves a lasting impression. With dental veneers, such a smile is possible for virtually anyone. Below is an introduction to this exciting option: what they are, the benefits they provide, and how they are applied.

What They Are

Veneers are razor-thin shells that adhere to the front surface of the teeth. They’re most often made from either porcelain or resin-composite materials. Every dental veneer is custom-designed to fit the patient's tooth. They last for an average of 10 years, but with dental technology making more and more significant advances with each passing day, it's not unreasonable to predict that, by the time you need to replace yours, there will be veneer materials that last much longer.

Benefits

The main benefit of veneers is that they alter the color, shape, and size of any tooth. If you have teeth that are discolored, they’ll whiten your smile. If you have chipped, worn, or misaligned teeth, they can make your entire mouth feel more comfortable and look more uniform. They’re also an ideal way to replace weak or absent enamel; while enamel is strong, it is not invincible, and veneers make for a good substitute that can protect the teeth once enamel is no longer present.

The Procedure

The process of getting veneers usually involves three trips to the dentist. At the first visit, you’ll discuss your goals with the dentist, and they’ll explain the procedure in more depth. At the second visit, the dentist removes enamel from the teeth that are to be covered and takes an impression of these teeth. At the third visit, the custom-molded veneers are ready to be applied; they’re trimmed to fit and then bonded onto the tooth with a special cement. During the second and third visits, the patient typically receives Novocain to numb the mouth and be more comfortable.

Get the smile you've always dreamed of and start exploring the possibility of veneers. Dr. Anthony J. Adams, D.D.S. of Healthy Body Dental offers a wide range of dental services to Pinellas County, FL, including teeth whitening, dentures, and bridges. To see if this option is right for you, contact his office today by calling (727) 799-3123, visiting them online, or messaging them on Facebook.