Dental Veneers Q & A
What are Dental Veneers?
Dental Veneers are tooth-shaped panels that are used to cover the front teeth when they're damaged in some way. Veneers are typically made from porcelain or a composite material that's custom matched to the shade of the surrounding teeth. Veneers are typically used for cosmetic purposes, but they do give extra stability to the teeth as well.
What are veneers used for?
Veneers are used in a variety of circumstances, including:
- Chipped teeth
- Cracked teeth
- Discolored teeth
- Filling small gaps between the front teeth
- Correction of minor teeth-alignment issues, for example slightly crooked front teeth
For patients seeking a non-invasive approach to straightening teeth without the need for veneers, Invisalign in New Hyde Park offers a clear aligner solution that gradually shifts teeth into proper alignment.
How does the veneer process work?
First, our providers will examine the tooth and discuss the desired changes with you. A mold of the tooth is made so that a customized veneer can be created in the laboratory. After the tooth has been cleaned thoroughly, a very small amount of enamel must be removed. This allows room for the veneer to be attached later.
Temporary veneers may be used until the permanent veneer arrives. Once the permanent veneer arrives, our providers will check it for proper fit and then adhere it to the tooth using dental cement. This ensures that the veneer will stay in place long-term. Costs may vary based on individual needs.
How long do veneers last?
This can vary by patient. If you take very good care of your veneers, you can typically expect them to last for 10 years or even more in some cases. When dental veneers eventually wear down over time, they can be replaced with new ones.
How do you care for veneers?
Veneers need the same kind of care that you give to your natural teeth. Brush and floss twice a day to keep plaque and tartar buildup at a minimum. When flossing, use extra care to avoid snagging the edge of the veneer, as this could potentially pull it loose with enough force.
Veneers are generally quite secure and can be treated just like they're part of your natural teeth. Schedule check-ups twice a year for best results, as this is the ideal time for our providers to ensure that the veneers are in good shape.
FAQs
How often do you get veneers redone?
Veneers need to be replaced about 10-15 years after they were installed, but with the right maintenance and care, that duration can be extended to up to 20 years.
What are the best veneers to get?
Both porcelain and composite veneers are quality veneers; therefore, the decision will be dependent on the materials, cost, maintenance, and durability. Even though porcelain veneers are more expensive than composite veneers, they are also more durable. While porcelain veneers are constructed of thin ceramic sheets that are attached to the front of the teeth, they are more delicate than composite veneers, which are made of plastic and resin and therefore less delicate to handle.
Do veneers feel like real teeth?
Yes. Dental veneers should be comfortable after the usual adjustment period if they are properly placed by our dentists. Porcelain veneers, in particular, feel so natural due to their thin coating.
Will veneers look fake?
There may be a lot of veneers that look artificial, but rest assured that it is possible to get veneers that look natural. This depends on the dentist and the type of veneer used; porcelain tends to look more natural.
Do veneers hurt?
No. The majority of patients who receive two to four veneers report minimal to no pain following the surgery. Individuals who have eight or more veneers may experience gum and maybe jaw pain.
At the initial step of the veneer procedure, many dentists provide some numbing agent. If you are numb, pain shouldn't be an issue.