In the quest for the perfect smile, many people consider dental veneers. But, a common concern that arises is, "Do veneers damage your teeth?" Let's find out.
Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of your teeth. They are made from porcelain or resin composite materials and are permanently bonded to your teeth. Veneers can dramatically improve your smile by changing the color, shape, size, or length of your teeth. They are often used for teeth that are discolored, worn down, chipped or broken, misaligned, uneven, or irregularly shaped.
The process of getting veneers typically requires three trips to the dentist. The first is for a consultation, and the other two are to make and apply the veneers. To prepare a tooth for a veneer, your dentist will reshape the tooth surface, which involves removing a small amount of enamel from the tooth's surface. Then, an impression or model of your tooth is made. Your dentist will send this model to a dental laboratory, which constructs your veneer. It usually takes 2-4 weeks for your dentist to receive the veneers back from the laboratory.
The primary concern for many is whether veneers damage the teeth. The truth is, the process of getting veneers does involve a degree of enamel removal - usually just a millimeter or less - to allow for proper placement of the veneer. However, this doesn't constitute 'damage.' It's a necessary step in the procedure that allows the veneer to fit your tooth seamlessly. When performed by a skilled dentist, like Dr. TJ O’Shea, the process is safe and doesn't harm the health of your teeth.
In addition to the immediate effects of veneers, it's important to consider their long-term impact on oral health. While veneers themselves don't cause damage to teeth, the process of enamel removal is irreversible. This means that once you opt for veneers, you commit to them for the long haul, as the treated teeth will always need to be protected with veneers or another form of dental restoration.
Proper oral hygiene is paramount after getting veneers. Although veneers are durable, they require regular care and maintenance, just like natural teeth, to prevent issues such as gum disease or cavities on the underlying tooth. At TJ O'Shea DMD, we ensure that our patients are fully informed about the long-term care and maintenance of veneers, as well as how to best preserve their overall oral health. By understanding the full scope of having veneers, including their benefits and the necessary commitment to oral hygiene, patients can make a well-informed decision that aligns with their long-term dental health goals.
Veneers offer numerous benefits. They provide a natural tooth appearance and are stain-resistant. Veneers also offer a conservative approach to changing a tooth's color and shape; veneers generally don't require the extensive shaping prior to the procedure that crowns do, yet offer a stronger, more aesthetic alternative.
If you're considering veneers and want to ensure they're the right option for you, don't hesitate to reach out to us at TJ O'Shea DMD. We're here to answer all your questions and provide the best possible dental care. Dr. O’Shea and our team are experienced in cosmetic dentistry and can help you achieve the smile you've always wanted. Call us today at (770) 772-9999 to schedule your consultation. Your perfect smile is just a phone call away.
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