In dentistry, a dental veneer is typically a thin layer of porcelain-like material placed on top of a damaged tooth. Veneers protect the surface of the tooth and enhance the aesthetic appearance of the smile. They are bonded to the tooth with a bonding agent and are generally porcelain or ceramic. The dental veneer does not change the shape or the color of the tooth; it simply accentuates the natural color or design of the tooth. There are many different types of dental veneers available for you to choose from, including porcelain, composite, laminate, composite bonding, porcelain inlays, and gold.
Dental veneers provide an instant makeover to your smile. When applied, they cover the lower part of the tooth, covering flaws such as chipped or worn teeth, gaps in between teeth, stains, discoloration, and imperfections. By improving the appearance of your teeth, dental veneers can also correct such issues as under bite, wide tooth gap, gum recessions, or poorly positioned or missing teeth. See page to get the best dental veneers.
These dental veneers are used primarily as a means of improving the appearance and function of your teeth. While their primary function is to improve the color and condition of your teeth, some may be used for their aesthetic benefits, as well. Dental veneers are also commonly used in teeth whitening, though their role in that application is often secondary. By providing a less invasive way to whiten teeth, they can help patients feel confident about the look of their teeth without the use of bleaching or peroxide applications. In fact, some patients may find that their previous methods of teeth whitening are no longer necessary after a single session.
However, veneers aren't just used for cosmetic dental issues. As mentioned, they're typically used to correct problems with teeth color, spacing, or imperfections. Typically, these issues arise from the natural aging process, but they can also be caused by trauma to nearby teeth. In these cases, using veneers allows the patient to address the aesthetic concerns related to those factors while also addressing the underlying cause. The end result is a noticeable improvement in the aesthetic appearance of the teeth and the patient experiences less discomfort from cosmetic dental issues.
Perhaps the most common of the new types of veneers are called mutineers. Lumineers are made of a composite of porcelain and either plastic or ceramic shells. They resemble natural tooth enamel more than porcelain or ceramic, but are much stronger than their natural counterparts. Because they are stronger, they tend to last longer and require less maintenance than their lumineers and teeth whitening counterparts. Find out more details on what are dental veneers.
Veneers and teeth whitening procedures are still evolving and becoming more commonplace, so it's important to choose a dentist that has experience with both dental veneers and tooth whitening. Only a dentist who has experience will be able to evaluate your dental health and determine whether veneers and/or teeth whitening is appropriate. You should also check to see if your dentist is aware of other procedures that can provide the same look-at-me factor without the risk and expense of permanent tooth replacement. Teeth whitening is a big decision, and you shouldn't take any chances. Read more about this topic here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veneer_(dentistry).