Questions To Ask the Cosmetic Dentist About Veneers

A cosmetic dentist can transform your smile with the help of various dental procedures and restorations. Dental veneers are one of the most common. Many people, celebrities included, get veneers to achieve a more uniform, aesthetically pleasing smile. If you are considering this procedure, ask the cosmetic dentist a few common questions to ensure it is the right choice for you.

FAQs to ask your cosmetic dentist

What are veneers, and will they work for me?

Veneers are thin, toothlike shells cemented to the front side of the teeth. There are three main types: composite resin, porcelain, and no-prep. Each is the same color and opacity as tooth enamel (the outer layer of the tooth), so they all look and feel the same as natural teeth.

A patient may benefit from veneers if their teeth have cracks, chips, gaps (diastema), or discoloration. They may also correct teeth that are misshapen or too short. The dentist will evaluate the patient’s cosmetic imperfections to determine whether veneers or another procedure would be the best option.

Am I a good candidate for veneers?

In addition to having a qualifying cosmetic imperfection, patients must meet certain eligibility requirements to get veneers. First, patients must have good oral health. That means they cannot have any serious dental conditions, such as gum disease or a cavity that the dentist needs to fill during the procedure.

Next, patients must have a healthy layer of tooth enamel. This is because, to apply veneers, the dentist will need to grind away some of the enamel. If there is not enough enamel, the cosmetic dentist cannot grind enough of the tooth away without compromising its integrity. However, no-prep veneers, which require minimal enamel removal, may still be an option for some patients.

What is the procedure like?

A cosmetic dentist can apply veneers over the span of two appointments, both of which should be largely painless. The first will be to ensure the patient is a good candidate for veneers, grind away some of the enamel, and then take impressions of the problem teeth to create custom veneers. The second appointment will be to install the veneers once they arrive from the dental lab. The cosmetic dentist will ensure they fit, look, and feel as desired. That includes checking to ensure the veneers are the same shade as the surrounding teeth. They will then secure the veneers with dental cement and do one final check.

What will aftercare look like for me?

Caring for veneers is as easy as caring for one’s natural teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, rinsing with mouthwash, and trips to the dentist should suffice. Patients can expect to get 10 to 15 years out of their veneers with consistent care.