What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are thin shells that go over the front of teeth to improve their appearance. Veneers are a great alternative to crowns, mask discolored fillings, and close gaps between teeth.
Usually, teeth veneers are small in size, not larger than a fingernail, and are used to treat cosmetically imperfect teeth that are:
- Chipped
- Broken
- Discolored
- Cracked
- Undersized
- Misaligned
Why Choose Teeth Veneers?
One of the great advantages of getting veneers is that they look like your real teeth. Not only do they look natural, but they feel that way too. Most people won’t be able to tell the difference!
Another positive is that they won’t get discolored – especially porcelain veneers – thanks to their high-quality material. Plus, they’re specifically made to fit you. Thrive Dental knows that one size does NOT fit all when it comes to your teeth. We’ll take measurements to be sure they fit your exact size, shade, and shape.
Another great benefit of veneers is that they have a quick turnaround time. Dental veneers can be completed in as little as two visits.
Types of Veneers
Four types of dental veneers are available: pop-on veneers, porcelain veneers, resin-composite veneers, and no-prep veneers. Here’s what you can expect from each type.
Porcelain veneers
Porcelain veneers are the sturdiest and most stain-resistant of all the available options. Lumineers are a kind of porcelain veneer, though they are much thinner and weaker than regular porcelain. Porcelain veneers involve your dentist removing enamel to custom-fit them.
Resin-composite veneers
Resin veneers are made of plastic and ceramic and are best suited for fixing minor issues like gaps or cracks. Resin veneers can typically be completed in a single visit.
How Long Will I Have My Veneers?
Teeth veneers are more durable than ever, which is good news for your smile and wallet. Assuming you take proper care of them, veneers can last at least a decade. Some research even shows they can last for 20 years.
Though there are no set care instructions for veneers, we recommend treating them like your regular teeth. This includes scheduling routine cleanings and dental exams, brushing, flossing, and maintaining a healthy diet.
To take excellent care of your veneers, porcelain or otherwise, ensure that you:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste.
- Brush your teeth at least twice daily for 2 minutes each session.
- Wear an athletic mouthguard when playing sports.
- Don’t chew on inedible objects.
- Use high-quality dental floss to clean between each tooth daily.
- Don’t bite or chew overly hard or sticky foods.
Beautify Your Smile with Thrive Dental
Whatever route you decide to take to get that camera-ready smile you’ve been dreaming of, Thrive Dental is ready to help you achieve it. We pride ourselves on empowering our clients through their pearly whites. We’re so excited to welcome you into our family-friendly dentist’s office!
For all your general, cosmetic, orthodontic, or kid dentistry needs, visit Thrive Dental & Orthodontics. We have offices in Frisco, Allen, Sachse, Richardson, and Dallas.
