Cosmetic damage and imperfections on your teeth can be disheartening and frustrating. Some people with this problem lose confidence in their smile, but there are solutions. Dental veneers allow you to cover up cosmetic defects like stains, chips, gaps, and more. Dental veneers offer a permanent solution to cosmetic dental problems, making it possible to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. As your dentist in Chicago, IL, the professionals at Mindful Dental are pleased to offer dental veneers to our patients.
It feels good to love the way you smile. At Mindful Dental, we’re committed to helping our patients grow their confidence in their appearance. We offer dental veneer installation to cover up these cosmetic problems. If you’re interested in dental veneers, our dental professionals can help. We provide streamlined dental veneer services to patients who need them.
What Are Dental Veneers?
A dental veneer is a thin, tooth-shaped cover attached to the front of a tooth. Dental veneers cover cosmetic damage or defects without providing structural reinforcement. Dental veneers look like real teeth. Dental veneers are made of material that’s durable and long-lasting.
Dental Veneer Installation Process
To install your dental veneers, your dentist will grind down your tooth enamel to make space for the veneer. Next, the dentist will make an impression of your teeth to send to the lab. Your dentist may use local anesthetic to help you feel more comfortable.
Your dental veneer will be custom-made for a perfect fit on your tooth. When the veneer is ready, you’ll return to the office for installation. The dental veneer is adhered to the tooth. When the procedure is over, the dental veneer is indistinguishable from other teeth in your mouth. To ensure the veneer looks right in your mouth, the dentist will even match the color of the veneer to the other teeth already in the mouth.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Veneers?
People who get dental veneers should have good oral health and hygiene to help ensure that their dental veneers will be long-lasting. If you have oral health conditions like periodontal disease, your dentist may suggest treating these conditions first. They may also suggest changes to your oral hygiene routine. Improving your oral hygiene routine can help ensure dental veneers will last.
Other signs that you’re a good candidate for dental veneers include:
- You have a gap in your teeth or a tooth with a malformation
- Your tooth is chipped or broken but does not need a crown or root canal therapy
- Your tooth is stained but does not respond to whitening
- You have a “gummy” smile
If you’re a good candidate for dental veneers, talk to your dentist to learn more about this helpful, relatively simple dental procedure. Your dentist will evaluate your dental health and discuss a treatment plan to help you achieve your goals for your smile.
Benefits of Dental Veneers
There are many benefits of dental veneers. Below are some of the reasons our patients seek out dental veneers for their teeth:
- Look natural. It’s difficult (or even impossible) to tell the difference between dental veneers and a natural tooth.
- Long-lasting. Dental veneers that are properly maintained can last for a long time. Your dentist will provide instructions for maintaining dental veneers after they’re installed.
- Permanent. Unlike dental bonding, which may only last a few years, dental veneers are permanent. Once dental veneers are installed, they can’t be removed unless they become damaged and require replacement.
Dental Veneer FAQs
Do you have questions about dental veneers? We have answers. Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about dental veneers.
Do dental veneers look natural?
Dental veneers look natural. They’re shaped like real teeth, and custom-made for your mouth, to ensure a perfect fit. Your dentist will even choose a dental veneer color that’s similar to your other teeth.
How long do dental veneers last?
Dental veneers can last between 10 and 20 years. Some materials last longer than others. Porcelain veneers can last up to 20 years, while composite veneers last approximately 10 or less.
What are dental veneers made of?
Dental veneers can be made from porcelain or composite material. Your dentist can help you choose a material that’s right for your budget and personal preferences. Porcelain is more durable, while composite is more affordable.
What kind of cosmetic problems can dental veneers resolve?
Dental veneers can cover chips in the tooth enamel as well as (small) gaps between teeth. If you have teeth of an unusual shape or size, dental veneers can make your teeth look more even and regular. If you have a “gummy” smile, dental veneers can make your teeth look longer. Finally, if you have stains that won’t come out of your teeth, dental veneers can cover them up.
How long does it take to install dental veneers?
Dental veneers are installed over two visits to the dentist. It’s typical for these visits to be spaced about three weeks apart. At Mindful Dental, we do our best to ensure that your experience is streamlined and efficient.
How are dental veneers maintained?
To maintain your dental veneers, you’ll brush your teeth with non-abrasive toothpaste twice daily. See the dentist twice annually, just as you would without dental veneers. Finally, avoid chewing on anything that’s not food. Don’t put pens or pencils in your mouth, and don’t chew on ice. Chewing on hard things that are not food, or using your teeth to tear open packages, can cause your teeth to become broken.
Think You’re a Good Candidate for Dental Veneers? How to Get Started
Do you think you’re a good candidate for dental veneers in Chicago, IL? If so, the dental professionals at Mindful Dental can help. We provide a range of cosmetic dental procedures, including dental veneer installation. Call today to make an appointment and learn more about how you can benefit from dental veneers, or to see one of our dental professionals to find out if you’re a good candidate for dental veneers.
