Veneers are a cosmetic dental procedure that will leave you with a smile designed to enhance your appearance and confidence. With veneers, you can camouflage chipped/broken teeth, gaps in your smile, tooth discoloration or stains, misshapen teeth, and teeth that are too small. Once you have figured out what is the veneers process, how long do they last (how long do veneers last), and their cost (veneers cost), you can then comfortably move on with the whole procedure. In this article, we tell you all about the process of getting veneers, what it entails, and what you should expect.
Porcelain veneer process explained step-by-step
Veneers surgery is not for everyone. You will be eligible for veneers only if your teeth are free from cavities and your gums are free from any gum disease. After your dentist has checked that box, they will take you through the process of getting veneers.
Here are all the steps included in the cost (veneers cost) of veneers surgery:
Step 1 - Initial consultation
A consultation with your dentist in which they will assess whether veneers are right for you.
Step 2 - Tooth preparation
Your teeth (or tooth) will be prepared for the veneers to be placed. A thin layer of enamel might need to be removed so that the veneers can be attached. A small sedative might be given to you to help you relax.
Step 3 - Shade choice
You and your dentist will choose the shade of your veneers so that they can be as close as possible to your natural teeth color.
Step 4 - Impression
Your dentist will then use a 3D digital scanner or soft putty in a tray to obtain an impression of your mouth and the shape of your teeth. While you wait for your next appointment, temporary veneers may be placed.
Step 5 - Bonding
The last appointment is when your new veneers are finally attached! This is called bonding. Your dentist will use a strong dental glue to secure the veneers permanently
Step 6 - Follow-up
Your dentist will ask you to come on for a follow-up consultation to check your gums and how the veneers are attached.
How long is the process for veneers?
Referring to the whole process above, the time it takes for the dental veneers procedure from consultation to the final procedure is around 3 weeks in most dental clinics. Your dentist will give you an overall cost for the whole procedure before you begin any veneer surgery (veneers cost).
3 signs you may need a porcelain veneer procedure
To know whether you need to go through the porcelain or other veneers process, there are 3 signs you should be aware of. Your dentist will recommend veneers to patients after an initial consultation. Here are the 3 signs to look out for:
Sign 1 - Stained or discolored teeth
Depending on what we eat and drink, as well as the nature of our teeth, teeth easily stain with time. Coffee, smoking and colored food and drinks all have that effect. While teeth whitening is most often used, some stained or discolored teeth are harder to treat. That is why veneers are recommended for a shiny and clean smile.
Sign 2 - Crooked teeth or teeth with gaps in between
This is one of the most common dental issues patients go to the dentist with. Porcelain veneers are used to hide crooked teeth and fill gaps.
Sign 3 - Damaged teeth
If your tooth or teeth are cracked or chipped, it is important to visit your dentist for solutions. They will most probably recommend veneers as a cost-effective solution (veneers cost) that is also durable (how long do veneers last).
How long do your teeth hurt after veneers?
The porcelain veneer process, or any other type of veneer for that matter, is generally painless. After placing veneers, most patients feel little to no pain. Some with 8 veneers or more experience soreness in the gums or jaw. However, the pain is manageable with over-the-counter medications and goes away within a few days.
Is it painful to get veneers?
When it comes to the whole process of veneers, there’s nothing to worry about. Dental veneers are actually a painless process. The only minimal pain you might feel is when your dentist will administer local anesthesia. After this takes effect, you will feel no pain or discomfort during the whole procedure.
Do they shave teeth for veneers?
Yes. The teeth veneers process entails shaving 0.5 mm of your tooth for porcelain veneers, and a little less for composite veneers.
What happens to your teeth under veneers?
While it is true that teeth under veneers are shaved from enamel, the nerves and roots are never touched by the dentist. The patient’s natural teeth remain as they are (with a few less enamel), and serve as a foundation for veneers. It is important to note that good oral care is important after placing veneers as they do not protect your teeth from tooth decay.
Do veneers go under the gum?
The dentist needs to keep a margin between the gum line and the veneers. However, it is delicate as aesthetics are key to the whole veneers process. It is important to consult a qualified professional with experience in placing veneers to get the best results and for your veneers to last (how long do veneers last).
Final Points
The veneers teeth process is usually predictable and straight to the point. Once you agree with your dentist on all the steps and the cost (veneers cost), you are all set to go!
