The data is clear: First impressions are critical! Studies support the fact that people form impressions about each other based on 55% visual cues, 38% vocal, and 7% verbal components. This means that a whopping 93 percent of someone’s opinion of us is based on how we look or how we say something, not on what we say at all. And these first impressions are formed quickly, some in milliseconds before the person speaks at all.
So, your smile is worth investing both time and money in to create a pleasing first impression. The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry reports that 48% of adults say a person’s smile is what they remember upon meeting someone for the first time.
If your smile needs a “tune up,” porcelain veneers are one of the best ways to
repair cracked, chipped, or stained teeth. Keep reading for all the info you need to discuss this option with your dentist.
What Are Dental Veneers?
The word “veneer” means any thin layer that makes something look more elegant or attractive. Dental veneers (sometimes also referred to as laminates) are just that: Custom-made porcelain shells that are applied to the front of the designated teeth to cover flaws.
The veneers are tinted to match the tooth color that is best for you and modern veneers have the same translucence as your real teeth. This creates veneers that don’t look fake. Your smile will look totally natural!
Veneers are a good choice for people who don’t want dentures and they want something more than mere whitening of the teeth. One of the best things about veneers is that you only need to get them put on the teeth with issues you want to hide. Many people get them just across their front teeth, as those are the most noticeable when smiling.
If you have chips or cracks in your teeth, wear and tear from aging, or teeth in the front that are mismatched, veneers are worth exploring with your dentist.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are less invasive to apply than just about any other cosmetic product, but not everyone is a good candidate. Here are some factors that might prevent you from proceeding with veneers:
- Habitual jaw clenching or grinding of teeth
- Significant structural tooth damage
- Crossbite or underbite
- Gum disease (active or recurrent)
- Severe tooth crowding
- Poor oral hygiene or excessive cavities
Your dentist will do a thorough examination of your mouth, teeth, and jaws to determine if veneers are right for you. If they determine that they aren’t, the dentist can suggest other options to improve your smile and guide you in choosing the best path for your teeth.
The Process Of Getting Porcelain Veneers
You’ve made the decision that veneers are for you and your dentist agrees. Now what?
Based on the exam your dentist did to determine your suitability for veneers, they will first take care of any fillings or other restoration work needed. Then your teeth will be prepped by slightly shaving a layer of enamel off your teeth. This will help the veneers adhere to your teeth.
A new impression will be made of what your new smile will look like and temporary veneers will be created for you to wear first. You and your dentist will work together to ensure the veneers make you look natural. Changes can be made at this point to adjust the color or shape of the temporary veneer. Then the permanent veneers will be made.
Finally, the temporary veneers are removed and the permanent ones are cemented to your teeth. Your smile is ready to be admired!
Caring for Your Veneers
Follow the tips offered in this article as well as the advice of your dentist, and your veneers can last up to 20 years.
Keep in mind that your mouth will be sore for the first few days, but it will pass. You may experience some initial tooth sensitivity, so take some over-the-counter pain reliever until the discomfort passes.
Continue your oral hygiene routine as normal. Brush and floss regularly, use mouthwash once a day, and keep up with your regular exams and cleanings. One thing to avoid is chewing ice or anything hard that can chip your teeth.
Take care of your veneers and enjoy your new smile as you make a great impression on everyone!
Find an Experienced Dentist for Your Porcelain Veneers
Any kind of cosmetic dental procedure is serious work. Even though veneers are a less invasive option, it’s important that the work be done by an experienced dentist. First, inquire if your regular dentist offers cosmetic dentistry; if not, ask them for a referral to one who does. The dentist you choose should be board-certified and have advanced training and education in cosmetic procedures.
Ask about new technologies and techniques the dentist uses to make the procedure more comfortable. Have the dentists you are considering show you pictures of some of their clients and the veneers they have already done.
Ask your friends and family for recommendations, too. Check reviews online as an additional source of information. Stop by the dentist’s business office, too, to determine if the cost can be covered by your dental insurance or if they offer payment plans.
Porcelain Veneers Can Give You the Stunning Smile You Want
Porcelain veneers are one of the least invasive ways of “touching up” the look of your teeth. They are thin shells that are custom-fitted to cover the outer layer of your teeth, thus hiding flaws like chips, cracks, or discoloration. When cared for properly, veneers can last up to 20 years.
Transform your smile with the expert team at All Smiles Dentistry. Our specialists are highly skilled in crafting and applying porcelain veneers, tailored to give you the stunning teeth you’ve always dreamed of. Experience the confidence that comes with a bright, natural-looking smile.
Schedule your consultation today and take the first step towards your dream smile with us.