Sometimes, it can be hard to wait patiently for something you really want. Whether it’s streaming that blockbuster while it’s still in theaters, using the drive-through for your lunch, or instantly closing the gaps in your smile with veneers, sometimes getting exactly what you’ve been wishing for doesn’t have to take forever. Here’s a closer look at this tooth transforming treatment, and how it can eliminate unsightly spaces between your teeth way sooner than braces ever could!
What Are Veneers?
Veneers are thin porcelain shells that fit over the outward facing surface of the teeth to transform their shape, size, shade, and yes, even their spacing. Because they’re made of durable, nonporous materials, with proper use, they can last in your smile for up to two decades, and they’ll even resist staining and discoloration!
Can Veneers Close Gaps in My Smile?
Because of their unique ability to close gaps and create the appearance of a perfectly aligned smile, veneers have earned the affectionate nickname “instant orthodontics.” They are ideal for teeth that have minor spacing issues that might otherwise require braces or aligners but are not significant enough that these issues would cause the patient any other problems like jaw pain, trouble maintaining oral hygiene, or if other more severe orthodontic problems.
When Orthodontics Are Best
If you have serious alignment issues like crooked teeth or a bad or painful bite, you may not be a good candidate for veneers at first. In those cases (or if you have any untreated oral health problems like cavities or gum disease) you’ll need to correct them before getting these restorations, as your dentist will not put them on teeth that could be at risk for decay or loss. Then, once your smile is aligned, you’ll be able to get veneers if you’d still like them!
What Does the Veneers Process Look Like?
The first step in getting veneers is visiting your dentist for a cosmetic dentistry consultation. At this appointment, she will examine the alignment and health of your teeth and gums. If all is well, she will take some impressions of your smile. Please be aware that to get veneers, you’ll need to have a very small amount of enamel removed from each tooth being treated. This is to ensure that your restorations fit properly and lay flush. However, because enamel can’t grow back, this procedure is considered irreversible, which means that going forward you’ll always need either a veneer or a crown on each of these teeth for protection.
While the lab creates your new restorations to your specifications, your dentist will give you temporary veneers to wear for about two weeks. This will not only protect your teeth, but it will also give you an idea of what it will be like to have real veneers. Then, once they’re ready, you’ll return to have the temporary ones removed and the permanent ones attached. Yes, it’s really that easy!
Once you get your new veneers, you can care for them just as you would real teeth, with a few small changes. First, you’ll want to switch to a gel-based toothpaste, as abrasive pastes can scratch porcelain. You’ll also need to use a soft-bristled brush if you don’t already. Finally, be prepared to take a few weeks to speak clearly, as sometimes the added bulk of veneers can create a slight, temporary lisp that usually goes away on its own with practice. You can help speed the process along by speaking as often as possible, including narrating your day when you’re alone. Then, before you know it, you’ll have a gorgeous, healthy smile free of the unsightly gaps and other cosmetic flaws that other treatments could take years to correct!
Remember, veneers earned the nickname “instant orthodontics” for a very good reason. To learn more about how this treatment can correct your smile ‘as soon as possible’, visit your dentist for a cosmetic dentistry consultation today!
About Dr. Fitzgerald
Dr. Alison Fitzgerald earned her dental doctorate at the Creighton School of Dentistry and has since taken numerous courses from prestigious institutions like Partners in Synergy, the Kois Center, Progressive Orthodontics, and the American Orthodontic Society. Although she likes all elements of dentistry, she is particularly passionate about studying airway management, sleep disorders, and facial harmony in cosmetic and orthodontic treatment. To schedule a consultation with Sweet Smiles Dental Design to see how veneers can create the gorgeous, even smile you’ve been dreaming of, visit our website or call 520-881-8902.