Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Veneers Made Of?
Veneers are made of a highly durable porcelain ceramic material. This material is very similar to your natural enamel in strength and translucence. There are also many different colors of porcelain for veneers. This means that we can match your new veneers to your natural teeth for a completely seamless result.
What Cosmetic Issues Can Veneers Treat?
Veneers can treat almost any cosmetic issue with your teeth. They are frequently used to cover up severe tooth stains, to restore misshapen or chipped teeth, to correct gaps between teeth, and even to improve the appearance of slightly-crooked teeth. Wondering if veneers are right for you? The best way to find out if you're a candidate is to schedule a consultation at Vibrant Dental.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are tooth-shaped shells that are designed to fit over the fronts of your teeth. By using a set of veneers to cover your teeth, Hendersonville dentist, Dr. Michael Weis can treat a wide variety of cosmetic issues, ranging from stains to minor chips, misshapen teeth, and more. Veneers are a very popular cosmetic dentistry treatment due to their versatility, long lifespan, and amazing results. If you’d like to enhance your smile in Hendersonville, you can contact Vibrant Dental today for a cosmetic consultation, and see if veneers are right for you.
Are veneers permanent?
Veneers are not considered a reversible treatment, but they're not exactly permanent either. This might sound confusing, so let's break it down. Veneers, thin shells of porcelain or composite resin that cover the front surfaces of your teeth, are a fantastic solution for a variety of cosmetic dental issues. They can mask stains, chips, gaps, and even minor misalignment, giving you a picture-perfect smile.
However, to place veneers, a small amount of your natural tooth enamel must be removed. This process is irreversible, meaning once you've had veneers placed, you'll always need a form of dental restoration on those teeth. The veneers themselves typically last between 10 to 15 years with proper care, although this can vary depending on individual circumstances. After this time, they'll need to be replaced. So while veneers are a long-term solution, they're not technically 'permanent' in the sense that they'll last a lifetime without needing replacement.
Do you have to brush veneers?
Yes, absolutely! Just because veneers cover your natural teeth doesn't mean you can skip out on good oral hygiene practices. In fact, maintaining a regular brushing routine is even more crucial when you have veneers. This is because the gum tissue around your veneers can still be affected by plaque and tartar build-up, potentially leading to gum disease.
Brushing twice a day with a non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush is the best way to keep your veneers looking their best. Flossing daily is also important to remove any food particles trapped between your teeth and veneers. Regular check-ups and cleanings at Vibrant Dental will also help maintain the longevity of your veneers and overall oral health.
What can't you eat with veneers?
While veneers are made from durable materials designed to withstand the forces of chewing and biting, there are certain foods that you might want to avoid to prevent damaging them. As a rule of thumb, anything that could damage your natural teeth can also damage your veneers.
Hard foods, such as nuts, seeds, hard candies, and ice, can potentially chip or crack your veneers. Sticky foods, like caramel and taffy, can pull on and potentially dislodge veneers. It's also best to avoid foods and drinks that are known to stain teeth, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored berries. While porcelain veneers are highly stain-resistant, the adhesive used to bond them to your teeth can discolor over time. It is also important to avoid using your teeth as tools to avoid cracking or dislodging your veneers, or even damaging your natural teeth.
Remember, veneers are an investment in your smile, so it makes sense to take care of them as best you can. With good oral hygiene and a mindful diet, you can enjoy your beautiful veneers for many years to come.