If you have gaps between your teeth that are large enough to leave you unhappy with your smile, you may have heard that orthodontics is the only way to fix this. But although braces and aligners provide beautiful, lasting results, maybe you don’t want to wait that long, or don’t need much intervention. The good news is that if you thought orthodontics were the only way to close the gaps in your teeth, you were happily mistaken. Affectionately known as “instant orthodontics,” a treatment called porcelain veneers may be able to do the job in a fraction of the time. Here’s what you need to know!
What are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are extremely thin porcelain shells that cover your teeth, improving their size, shape, color, and yes, even their spacing. If yours are uneven, discolored, too small, or have noticeable gaps between them, veneers can instantly transform your smile and provide lasting results for up to 20 years!
The Benefits of Veneers
In addition to closing the gaps in your smile, your new veneers can also change minor tooth size and shaping issues. You can even choose your ideal shade of white, and because they’re extremely stain resistant, enjoy a lasting, beautiful smile that stands up to things like coffee, chocolate, and even red wine for decades!
The Veneers Process
Unlike orthodontic treatment, the process of getting veneers can be done in just a few short weeks! First, you’ll need a consultation with your dentist, where impressions of your teeth will be made to fit your new prosthetics. They will need to remove a very small amount of enamel to reshape each tooth, so your new veneers fit securely. To do this, he or she will numb your mouth to reduce any discomfort, and then carefully reshape the required teeth. You’ll leave with temporary veneers to protect them until the permanent ones are ready. Please be aware that enamel removal is irreversible, so going forward your treated teeth will always need to have a veneer or crown to protect them. You may notice a little sensitivity to hot and cold with temporary veneers, but this should stop when you get your permanent prosthetics.
After about two weeks, your new veneers will be delivered to your dentist from the dental lab, and you’ll return to have them placed. This process is completely painless, and you should be able to return to normal activities immediately after, including eating a full diet!
Living with Veneers
The great news about veneers is that you won’t need to change much about your lifestyle once you get them. They won’t make your teeth indestructible, so you’ll still need to practice excellent oral hygiene, including brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist every six months for your regular dental exam and cleaning appointments. Be sure to do this, as getting a cavity on a tooth with a veneer can be complicated to treat, since your dentist may need to remove it to reach the cavity.
Furthermore, be aware that your veneers won’t be affected by whitening toothpastes; in fact, these can be too abrasive, so it’s important to avoid using them on your new smile. Instead, choose non-abrasive gel toothpaste and always use a soft-bristled brush. It is also important to note that though your prosthetics are strong and durable, you should be careful with what you use them for. Never use your teeth (both treated and untreated) for anything but food. No opening packaging, biting fingernails, or chewing on objects like pen caps. Also, avoid extremely hard, crunchy foods like hard candies or ice cubes.
Remember, it’s understandable to want to close gaps in your grin as soon as possible. With porcelain veneers, you can cut the line and get the smile you’ve always wanted in just a few short weeks! To learn more, contact your dentist for a consultation today!
About Our Practice
At Valer Dental & Braces, we want to make you smile! Whether you need an exam and cleaning, an orthodontic treatment, or you’d like to improve your smile in just a few short weeks with porcelain veneers, our skilled and caring dental team is here to help! To schedule an appointment for veneers, visit our website today, or call our office at 505-257-2000 in Coors or 505-600-2000 in Albuquerque.