If you’re considering having any type of cosmetic dentistry, chances are you’ve looked into dental veneers. However, you may be wondering if veneers can damage your teeth in any way. Your dentist in Alexandria always recommends doing some research before you get any dental work done, and this article will help you figure out whether or not veneers may be right for you.
Dental Veneers
Before we jump into whether or not veneers are bad for your teeth, it’s helpful to know exactly what they are. Dental veneers are thin shells of tooth-colored material that can be cemented directly onto an existing tooth. They’re used to conceal chips, cracks, and other defects. On top of restoring damaged teeth, veneers can also be used to give you a set of perfect teeth that look absolutely natural. There are various types of dental veneer materials on today’s market including porcelain, composite resin, and zirconia, among others, so it’s important to ask your Alexandria dentist about their pros and cons when choosing which kind is best for you.
How Porcelain Veneers Affect Teeth
Despite some claims that veneers will damage teeth, the truth is, porcelain veneers do not harm your smile in any way, as long as you see a qualified cosmetic dentist in Alexandria. So what should you expect from veneer treatment?
- Exam
The first step to getting veneers includes taking x-rays to make sure teeth are healthy and free of tooth decay. Sometimes we may need to treat teeth before we can begin your treatment.
- Prep
Once your teeth are healthy and ready to go, your dentist will prep your teeth. This includes removing a thin layer of your enamel to make room for the veneers. Although this might sound harmful to your teeth, it’s not because the veneers will replace the portion that’s been removed. Plus, your teeth will have even more protection than before and not experience staining, like with natural teeth.
- Bond
Once the area is prepped and ready, your Alexandria dentist will then use a special bonding cement to bond the veneer to your teeth. The bonding material is completely safe and does not harm your teeth. This simple procedure provides you with beautiful results that provide your teeth with protection and prevent stains.
Not All Veneers Are Good
Did you know that you can now buy veneers online without ever seeing a dentist? It’s true, but you shouldn’t do it. Mail-order veneers tend to be uncomfortable and can cause more problems than solutions. Since they aren’t custom-made to you, they can rub your gum tissue and cause irritation and recessions. Ill-fitting veneers can also cause teeth to shift, creating crooked teeth where they may not have been before. Now, since we’re in the Halloween season, you could consider these temporary veneers to get your costume just right. But don’t wear them for more than a few hours.
All forms of cosmetic dentistry can transform smiles, but veneers are typically the first choice and often the easiest choice. Start your cosmetic dentistry journey by talking to your dentist.
We’re always welcoming new patients from Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and nearby areas.
