What is a Dental Veneer?
Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of your teeth. They are created in a dental laboratory and carefully crafted to match a shape and shade that complements your smile, helping them blend naturally with your surrounding teeth.
Veneers may be recommended to alter the appearance of teeth that are discoloured, chipped, uneven, or slightly spaced apart. By covering the visible portion of the tooth, veneers can help create a smoother, more balanced look while maintaining a natural appearance.
At Canmore Downtown Dental, we can also use digital imaging to show you a preview of how your smile may look before treatment begins. This allows you to see a potential outcome and discuss any adjustments before moving forward with treatment.
The Veneers Process
Getting veneers usually takes a couple of visits. At your first appointment, your dentist will examine your teeth and discuss the look you would like to achieve.
To prepare your teeth, a small amount of enamel may be removed from the front surface to make space for the veneers. Impressions or digital scans are then taken so your custom veneers can be created in a dental laboratory.
Once your veneers are ready, you will return to the office so your dentist can check them carefully for fit and appearance.
The veneers are then bonded to your teeth, and any final adjustments are made to help ensure they feel comfortable and look natural.
Caring for Veneers
Taking care of veneers is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and maintaining regular dental checkups and cleanings can help keep your veneers and the surrounding teeth in good condition.
It is also helpful to avoid habits that place extra pressure on your teeth, such as biting hard objects like ice or using your teeth to open packaging.
Being mindful of these habits can help protect both your veneers and your natural teeth from unnecessary damage.
With good oral hygiene and routine dental visits, veneers can continue to look natural and function well for many years.