Dental veneers offer a straight and even smile without needing to remove your existing teeth. This cosmetic procedure is often a good fit for patients with stained, chipped, or a few missing teeth. But like many alterations to your teeth, most veneers represent a permanent change to your smile. Before the procedure, check through this list to be sure you're ready for your new, brighter smile.
Deciding if Veneers are the Right Option
Thanks to advances in modern dentistry, you don't need to live with a smile that makes you feel awkward or self-conscious. A variety of cosmetic procedures can now restore your teeth's appearance. Veneers are a popular choice because they provide dramatic results while preserving your existing teeth. They are, however, a lifelong commitment, and they may need replacing every decade or two. Talk to your dentist to learn more about your options and whether or not veneers are the right choice for you.
Choosing a Veneer Type
If you decide to have veneers installed, you might face a choice between several brands and styles. For example, certain styles of veneers remove less of your teeth's outer layer during installation, though they may be less durable or more prominent. Also, consider how many teeth you want to be covered. Some patients only opt for their upper-front teeth to have veneers, correcting the most visible part of their smile.
Correcting Dental Problems
Before installing veneers, the rest of your mouth should be healthy with no outstanding issues. That means filling in any new cavities, placing crowns, or adding implants. While it's possible to have dental work done with veneers in, taking care of problems beforehand will ensure your unique veneer cast isn't thrown out of alignment later.
Fixing Bite Issues
For similar reasons, if you have an overbite or underbite, consider correcting the bite misalignment before committing to your veneers. Malocclusions can make biting into food with veneers in place more challenging and lead to breakages. You may also need to replace the veneers if you decide to fix your bite later.
Deciding on Color and Shape
Finally, once everything else is in order, you can choose how you want your veneers to look. While it might be tempting to go for bright white and square teeth, remember that bleached teeth may stand out when you smile. It's often better to choose a more natural tone and shape for teeth to keep the veneers subtle. Ask your dentist for help picking the best style of veneers for your smile, and schedule a consultation today to get started.
If you are tired of coming down with dental problems, the problem might not be your toothpaste. Instead, it could be your habits tied to your dental care. Aggressive brushers, people who have a tendency to forget, and even people who are flossing improperly could be left with serious dental issues, which is why it really pays to focus on mastering the small things. From moving forward with a better brushing routine to doing what you can to identify and resolve ongoing decay, making your dental health a priority is instrumental in preventing pain and added budgetary strains. Check out this blog to find out more.