There are numerous cosmetic procedures to improve someone’s smile, and veneers are a popular option. There are two types of veneers: Porcelain and composite. Both are used for minor cosmetic issues such as discolored teeth, cracks or chips, gaps between teeth, and worn-down enamel.
Porcelain is used more often as there are numerous benefits, but this procedure is considered permanent because the dentist needs to change the natural tooth’s structure. Composite veneers, in comparison, do not change the structure of the teeth and are removable.
Porcelain veneers are a popular option because they are strong, durable, and natural looking. This type does, however, require permanent changes to the underlying teeth.
The process of placing veneers requires two visits to the dentist. During the first appointment, the dentist takes an impression of the teeth. This is used to create temporary veneers and gives a good picture of what the final product will look like.
Next, the dentist prepares the teeth. This is done by removing some of the enamel and shaping it to create room for the veneers. Once the teeth are the right shape and size, a final impression is taken, which is used to fabricate the permanent restoration. Between the first and second appointment, the temporary veneers are placed.
Once the permanent veneers have been made, the patient makes a second appointment for bonding. The dentist removes the temporary shells, cleans the gums, and adjusts the prosthetic to fit. Once it attached correctly, the dentist uses cement to bond the veneers to the natural teeth.
With proper care, porcelain veneers typically last 10 to 20 years. If damaged or deteriorated, replacement is necessary as the structure of the underlying teeth has been altered.
For patients who want a reversible cosmetic option, composite veneers may be the answer.
Composite veneer placement can occur in one or two visits. In both cases, the teeth are first prepared, which includes cleaning and slightly reshaping the teeth. A very small amount of enamel may be removed, which retains the convexity of the tooth, meaning composite veneers are not as permanent as porcelain ones.
If it is a two-visit replacement, an impression is made, and the final veneers are bonded on the second visit, just like with porcelain ones. For one-visit placement, the dentist applies and hardens individual layers of composite material to the teeth.
Composite veneers do not last as long as porcelain ones. The average lifespan is five to seven years. After that time, most people choose to have the procedure redone. However, replacing is not necessary as it is for porcelain since the underlying teeth have not been permanently changed.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Veneers and Dental Laminates in Columbia, SC
If someone wants to fix minor imperfections of the teeth, veneers may be a good option. There are two types of veneers, and one is permanent, so patients should discuss both options with the dentist.
Request an appointment or call Davis & Dingle Family Dentistry at 803-567-1804 for an appointment in our Columbia office.
For patients with aesthetic and structural tooth imperfections, dental veneers are a common solution for improving the function and look of one’s smile. This restorative option involves attaching custom-designed shells, made from either composite materials or porcelain, over the front, visible portion of a tooth. For patients considering this solution to enhance the appearance of…
Dental veneers can transform a smile. The American Dental Association defines these as "thin, custom-made shells crafted of tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front side of teeth." These restorations are typically made of porcelain or resin and can last for many years. There are some situations in which veneers need to be replaced; most…
Dental veneers are made of porcelain or composite resin material. The shells cover the front surface of a patient's front teeth and can be used to change the size, shape, or color of teeth. These restorations have been used for years to transform smiles, but some may wonder about their permanency. There are several reasons…
Wear and tear make denture repairs inevitable in the long run. This is why a general dentistry practice that deals with dentures should have in-house facilities for minor and moderate repairs. The practice should also have quick access to a dental lab in case a patient needs major repairs for their dentures. Knowing when to…
Maintaining good oral health is essential to a healthy lifestyle. Regular visits to a general dentist are crucial in preventing and treating different dental issues. General dentists provide a wide range of services, such as preventive care, restorative treatments, and oral health education. However, if you are new to an area or are changing dentists,…