Veneers

Veneers in Woodbridge, VA

Veneers in Woodbridge, VA, can cover an array of dental issues, including cracks or gaps in teeth. Whether you want a whiter smile or just want to fix a chip in your front tooth, veneers are a safe and effective cosmetic dentistry service that can give you more than just confidence every time you open your mouth.

What Are Veneers?

Veneers are a type of concealer for your teeth. Made from a thin material, you and your cosmetic dentist will first choose a material for the veneer so it can be fashioned to fit your mouth. Veneers are affixed to the tooth’s front surface, acting as camouflage to enhance the appearance of your smile.

Veneers can be made in multiples if you have several teeth that you wish to change, or you can have them made for a single tooth.

Should you choose the latter option, the dentist will ensure that the veneer matches your existing teeth as much as possible so the effect is as subtle and aesthetic as possible. In other words, you won’t have to worry about having one picture-perfect tooth if the rest aren’t quite as straight and white. (Many people schedule professional teeth whitening services before they get veneers so their smile is as white as possible before final placement.)

When Should I Get Veneers?

Most people get veneers when they want to change just one or a few teeth. So, maybe you have one severely discolored tooth due to an internal injury, or maybe you just want to fix the gaps in the front teeth rather than your whole smile. If you want to make more significant changes to your smile, such as revamping your upper and lower alignment, you should explore clear aligners or even jaw surgery as a more effective measure.

Veneers are often a good option for people with one chipped tooth or a small enough gap that can be covered with the thin-shell material. If you’re concerned about the cost versus the rewards of veneers, it helps to talk through the matter with a dentist who can give you more information about the procedure and its long-term effects.

Am I Eligible for Veneers?

It depends on the health of your teeth and gums. You can endanger your oral health with veneers if you have severe tooth decay or more advanced gum disease. The best way to avoid accidental damage is to talk to a reputable cosmetic dentist who will put your well-being first. Sometimes, it could be as simple as scheduling a deep cleaning for your mouth before you’re officially ready for veneers.

Is a Veneer the Same as a Crown?

No. A veneer is a thin shell covering for a tooth, whereas a crown is a partial artificial tooth. However, it can be confusing because both procedures can be recommended for seemingly the same reasons. For example, if you have a crack in your tooth, the dentist may recommend a crown to strengthen it.

The major difference comes down to the issue’s severity. A veneer is considered an aesthetic procedure, whereas a crown is considered more of a necessity. For example, cracks and chips in your teeth don’t always require immediate fixes because the tooth is still considered structurally sound. Once the crack or chip impacts the structural integrity, a dentist in Woodbridge, VA, might recommend a crown.

Are There Different Types of Veneers?

Yes. Veneers have become a popular procedure over the years, which has led to an array of products (and prices) available to patients:

Composite: Composite veneers are made from resin, which is affordable but doesn’t last quite as long. You may need to replace them every 3 – 4 years, which can put undue pressure on the tooth.
Porcelain: Made from a stronger material and custom-fit for your tooth, porcelain is more expensive, but the procedure can last up to a decade or more.
No-prep: No-prep veneers require less treatment than standard veneer procedures. They can be made from either composite or porcelain.
Removable: A removable veneer snaps over your teeth as a quick fix for your smile. These affordable and custom-fit options are popular, but they need to be removed when you’re eating and can impact your speech patterns.

Every veneer procedure has its pros and cons. For example, porcelain lasts the longest and is generally considered the best option, though not everyone wants to give up a portion of their enamel to ensure the veneer stays in place. Talking to a dentist can help you decide which type of veneer works best for you (and your budget).

What Can I Expect If I Get Veneers?

It’s important to know that the process can vary based on the type of dentist and the veneer material you choose. Here, we look at the standard rules so you have an idea of what you’re signing up for.

Before

The first step is to determine your eligibility. The dentist will look at your teeth and gums to see whether they can handle the enamel loss. From there, the dentist will have to take impressions of your teeth to send to the lab and then take a small amount of enamel to prep for the procedure. You may receive a temporary veneer in Woodbridge before the placement appointment, which can help you get used to the sensation before you get the real thing.

During

The veneers are typically made in a lab and then returned to the dentist. Once they have them in hand, they’ll confirm the shape and color of the veneers so they’re certain they will blend in with your smile. You also have the chance to review the product before placement, so you can make adjustments before they’re placed. From there, the dentist will bond the veneer to your tooth and then make adjustments to your bite (so you can chew comfortably).

After

There is no recovery period after veneers! You can return to your regularly scheduled day as soon as the anesthesia wears off. Dentists recommend using soft-bristled toothbrushes and fluoride toothpaste to protect your smile. In addition, avoid whitening products because they can reduce the lifespan of the veneer’s material. Make sure you keep up with your brushing and flossing, and if you really want to go the extra mile, avoid exceptionally crunchy or chewy foods to help your veneers last as long as humanly possible.

Will People Be Able to Tell I’m Wearing a Veneer?

Not when you have the right dentist! Veneers may be obvious, depending on the material and the placement. When you choose a reputable cosmetic dentist, the effects are subtler and more natural.