It’s no surprise that concerns about the appearance of our smile are a part of everyday life. With the advancement of technology and increasingly easy access to it over the past decades, we have seen a rise in demand for these kinds of treatments, just as more options have become available. Some people want to straighten their teeth, others seek a whiter smile. But what’s the best way to achieve this? Although there is no definitive answer to this question, we can show you the best options out there. That’s why today we’re going to talk about the popular dental veneer. So, what is it exactly? Is it really effective? Read this article to the end and discover everything you need to know about the topic!
What is a Dental Veneer?
A dental veneer is simply a thin laminate placed over your teeth to give them a whiter, healthier, and more symmetrical appearance. Because it is such a thin material, it is likened to the contact lenses we use for our eyes, which is where it gets its name.
It’s a minimally invasive and highly effective way to get a more attractive smile in a short period of time. For this reason, it has become increasingly popular. It’s worth remembering that a more attractive smile helps boost self-esteem and is essential for many people to feel better about themselves, with their appearance, and to live happier lives.
Who can use a Dental Veneer?
Dental veneers are recommended for those looking to correct small aesthetic issues, in other words, minor imperfections that, with another type of treatment, could take much longer and involve more invasive procedures. In general, this procedure is done to correct small defects such as gapped teeth, yellowish coloration, texture, and tooth size.
People with issues like crooked teeth, for example, will rarely benefit from dental veneers, since in these situations, a different type of treatment is required.
How is it applied?
Applying a dental veneer is quite simple and consists of 3 basic steps. They are:
- Preparation
- Production
- Placement
We’ll discuss each of these steps separately so you can better understand how each occurs.
Preparation
In this step, the dentist analyzes your teeth and identifies which imperfections can be corrected and which teeth will receive veneers. This is also when the mold for the veneer is prepared.
Production
The dental veneer can be produced manually from the mold taken by your dentist or by a 3D camera (which is more common these days). It is also more common for the veneer to be made with a dedicated printer.
Placement
Finally, after the veneer is made, the dentist attaches it to your tooth using a type of adhesive developed specifically for this purpose.
Because of this process, at least three sessions are required to have a dental veneer applied. However, depending on how many veneers you want, the number of sessions may be even higher.
How long does it last?
If a person does not experience any issues such as trauma to the teeth or gum recession, dental veneers typically last between 5 and 10 years. After this period, they can be replaced with new veneers. It’s also important to note that they cannot be removed, since the tooth beneath has been worn down.
Are There Side Effects?
There are no true side effects when it comes to dental veneers. However, they are not recommended for people who have many restorations or who suffer from conditions like very severe bruxism. That’s because the application may not be effective in these cases.
In addition, it is recommended that you take certain precautions after getting a dental veneer, such as being extra careful with brushing and flossing, and avoiding biting objects and exposing your teeth, at least for the first few days. Also, avoiding drinks that stain teeth, like coffee and soda, is a good idea.
How Much Does a Dental Veneer Cost?
The price of a dental veneer can vary greatly depending on the dentist you choose, the region of the country where you live, or even your neighborhood. However, the average cost for each veneer is between R$ 1,500.00 and R$ 3,000.00. As we mentioned, these prices can vary widely, but will rarely fall outside this range.
Before undergoing any cosmetic dental procedure, it’s important to research and understand whether the treatment is right for you. Of course, talking to your dentist can make all the difference, but your preferences and opinion are very important too. That’s why our top tip is for you to keep researching the main ways to whiten your teeth to decide which is best for your case. After all, it’s your smile.
