What Are Veneers And Why Are They Useful?

Veneers are the latest addition to advancement in Cosmetic dentistry. Veneers are thin casings used to cover the front side of the teeth. These custom made casings are multifunctional as they can correct uneven teeth, disguise discoloration, worn enamel, and irregular scaping and chipped teeth. Sometimes veneers are used to protect an already damaged tooth from further damage. They also serve a restorative purpose. Veneers can last for over 20 years.

The procedure involved in fixing the veneer takes a few sittings with your dentist. First the dentist subjects your teeth to a thorough examination which includes taking impressions of your teeth and also some x-rays. Next, a bit of enamel is removed from your teeth and an impression of it is made which is sent to the lab to create a veneer. You are provided with a temporary veneer till the time your mould of veneer is created. Finally when the new veneer arrives, your dentist checks for the size and color and makes adjustments if needed. Once satisfied, he will cement it on your teeth.

The use of veneers is a quick way to improve damaged teeth without the use of orthodontics. Depending upon the kind of damage, dentists sometimes use a combination of veneers and orthodontic treatments. Care should be taken while fixing the veneers, as an increase in front of the teeth can make the lips to push out. Patients in whom the lower jaw protrudes are not suitable for veneers as they can dislodge the veneer of the upper jaw.

Veneers are used as a tool in the cosmetic dentistry to restore makeover or even camouflage the space between small teeth. In total they can be used to provide uniform shape, color and symmetry to the teeth making them to appear pleasing and straight.

The advantages of veneer are many which are aesthetic and functional too. Being soft on gums and stain resistant, veneers can make your teeth look more pleasing and natural. Having a restorative purpose, they can also prevent your already damaged teeth from further damage.

Notwithstanding the protection they provide and the beauty they bring to your teeth, veneers can crack or chip in some rare cases and do need to be replaced. Another minus point with them is, during veneer fixing, a thin layer of the teeth enamel is required to be removed. This removal makes your teeth sensitive to cold and hot foods. Some people are in the habit of grinding their teeth and a dentist can very well note about this habit from the wear marks on the teeth. If you have this habit, he will advise you to wear a mouth guard when you go to bed.

Veneers come in a variety to choose from. There are porcelain veneers, lumineers and resin composite veneers. Of these, the porcelain veneers are the most expensive as they are chip and stain resistant.

The lumineers are also a type of porcelain veneers which do not require the shaving of the tooth when being fixed. These can be used on a crown and also on the bridge work. Lumineers can last for over 20 years.

Most of the time, veneers do not come under an insurance cover as they serve cosmetic purpose.