Dental veneers are an excellent solution for specific aesthetic flaws. These appliances can cover chips, gaps, and stains and correct the appearance of slightly misshapen teeth. Since placing veneers only takes a few appointments, they are an efficient way to improve your smile.
However, not every patient is immediately eligible to receive dental veneers. Veneers work best for patients with healthy teeth and gums. In this blog, we share the factors that determine whether you are a good candidate to receive dental veneers and how you can improve your chances of a successful procedure.
Factors Impacting Your Eligibility
Good candidates for veneers share all of the following characteristics:
- Healthy teeth and gums with no untreated decay or periodontal disease
- Robust layer of natural tooth enamel
- Excellent oral hygiene habits, including brushing and flossing, as recommended by your dentist.
- Ability to follow directions and discontinue habits like chewing ice, biting nails, and opening packages with your teeth
- Absence of bruxism (teeth grinding) symptoms
How to Qualify for Veneers
Certain conditions can improve with proper professional care and your dedication to improving your oral health. These factors include:
- Gum disease: When treated early, the earliest stage (gingivitis) is often reversible. Restoring healthy gums makes it possible to apply veneers.
- Discipline: Many patients have the motivation to break their damaging habits and ensure their dental veneers last a long time.
- Oral hygiene: Following your dentist's and hygienist's guidance, you can build positive hygiene habits and help your veneers last longer.
- Treat bruxism: You can get a mouth guard from your dentist to protect your teeth from grinding.
Improve Your Smile's Appearance With Dental Veneers
Many busy adults and professionals seek out veneers because they can brighten and perfect their smiles in just a few appointments. Veneers represent a significant investment in yourself and your quality of life. They last longer than teeth whitening and require much less time investment than braces or clear aligners. We can help you compare the pros and cons and decide which cosmetic procedures work best for your smile.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Veneers
What is the difference between porcelain and composite veneers?
The materials used to make these veneers have different properties. Both options can create a brilliant smile free of aesthetic issues.
Porcelain veneers have the luster of natural enamel. They are tough and stain-resistant. However, if they break or chip, the entire veneer will need to be replaced. Composites are easier to repair, but more prone to stains.
Are veneers permanent?
Veneers are not permanent, but they last for years. Porcelain veneers last significantly longer, but need periodic replacement. After you receive porcelain or composite veneers, you will need to continue replacing them as they wear out.
We at Dental Associates in Farmington, CT, want to help you achieve your ideal smile. If you have any questions about your eligibility for dental veneers, please get in touch with us to learn whether these appliances are a good fit for your lifestyle.