If you find yourself smiling without exposing your teeth because of tooth discoloration or a chip, consider speaking with a dental professional about composite veneers. This fairly simple method of restoring a tooth’s appearance can have patients smiling brighter and feeling more confident, all in about an hour.
Veneers come in two forms: porcelain and composite. Of the two, composite veneers are often more popular with patients because they require less expense and time. Learn about composite veneers, the conditions they can help correct, how they work, and their benefits before speaking with your dentist.
What Are Composite Veneers?
Veneers are applied to a tooth to help hide unwanted conditions such as discoloration or a chip. A composite veneer is made of a strong composite resin that is applied directly to a patient’s tooth to mask its less-than-satisfactory appearance.
Composite veneers are not permanent and should be well taken care of via good oral hygiene and regular cleanings by a dental professional. While the life of a composite veneer can vary, most recipients find that they last five to ten years if well cared for.
Who Can Benefit From Composite Veneers?
Many patients inquiring about veneers do so because they are unhappy with the current appearance of one or more teeth. While getting veneers is largely a cosmetic procedure, it may give a patient a surge of self-confidence that can enhance their overall quality of life.
Individuals who may be best suited for composite veneers typically have one of the below conditions:
- Discolored or stained teeth
- Partially chipped or multiple old restorations on teeth
- Slightly crooked or misshapen teeth
- Wider spacing than normal in between teeth
In addition, those individuals who have not had great success with past whitening treatments may find a composite veneer to be a more satisfactory option.
In terms of age groups, composite veneers are quite popular for young children. Composite veneers can be advantageous as they are generally easily repaired and wallet friendly.
Benefits of Composite Veneers
When it comes to getting veneers, there are some specific advantages to going with composite. Many dentists and patients find the below to be true of composite veneers:
- They are often less expensive than their porcelain counterparts.
- They require less tooth preparation than other types of veneers.
- Repairs are typically quick and easy and can be done in one visit.
- Because composite veneers can be repaired, they do not usually require a replacement like that of a porcelain veneer.
It is worth noting that every dental patient’s situation is unique. To find out if composite veneers will accommodate your specific needs, consider making an appointment with your dentist to discuss the possibilities.
How Composite Veneers Work
For a patient to receive composite veneers is a relatively quick process that is not painful. The process requires minimal preparation, and composite veneers can generally be made and placed during the same visit.
To begin, the dentist will thoroughly examine the tooth scheduled to receive the veneer. The tooth will typically require a certain amount of reshaping to properly support the veneer.
Once the tooth is sufficiently prepped, the dentist will select a composite resin that is similar in color to the patient’s other teeth. This will enhance the natural appearance of the composite resin helping to make it undetectable to the untrained eye.
After the best shade of resin is selected for the patient, the dentist will mold the resin directly onto the tooth. The resin is generally applied in several layers and each is cured with a special light that helps it correctly bond to the existing tooth’s enamel.
Once the composite resin has been applied, it is vitally important for the dentist to smooth and polish the hardened resin. This will keep any rough or uneven parts of the resin from irritating the mouth while also helping it achieve the natural translucent luster of the surrounding teeth.
How To Take Care Of Composite Veneers
Composite veneers are not permanent and typically last between five and ten years. To extend the life of composite veneers for as long as possible there are several things patients can do, including:
Practice good oral hygiene.
Brush teeth daily in the morning and again before bedtime and remember to floss.
Make appointments for regular teeth cleanings.
While brushing teeth at home is crucial to good oral health, scheduling a professional teeth cleaning at least twice a year may help further prolong the life of composite veneers and aid dentists with early detection of any veneer issues.
Minimize exposure to extremely hard, brittle, or crunchy foods.
Eating is a daily part of life, and while patients who have received composite veneers need to be able to enjoy a variety of foods, avoiding chewing particularly hard substances such as peanut brittle, hard candies or ice is best.
Considerations For Finding A Houston Dentist That Does Composite Veneers
If you are considering composite veneers to enhance your smile and quality of life, it is important to choose a Houston dentist that is both reputable and experienced. Look for dentists near you that provide this service and then speak with friends and family and research online to see if any on your list come highly recommended.
Once you have settled on a dentist, it can be a good idea to request a consultation to discuss:
- if veneers are right for you
- how long the dentist has been performing this procedure
- what to expect for this procedure
- what days and times the dentist performs this procedure
Composite veneers can be a simple and cost-effective way to restore your smile. Speak with your dentist today to see if they are right for you.
