If you dislike the outward appearance of your teeth, you may be considering cosmetic dentistry services to help you improve those elements that make you feel most self-conscious about the appearance of your smile. Veneers are a highly popular cosmetic dentistry treatment that can help you transform your teeth and enjoy a natural, confident smile.

What are veneers?

Veneers are thin, shell-like covers that are attached to the outward-facing enamel of your teeth. Each veneer is custom-designed specifically for the tooth or teeth that you wish to be addressed and created from high-grade porcelain, composite resin or zirconia, enabling it to be glazed in a shade that matches your existing teeth. If you are having all of your teeth covered with veneers, you can choose a whiter, brighter shade that will enhance the appearance of your smile.

How are veneers applied?

The procedure to fit a single or full set of veneers is very straightforward. Once your custom-designed veneers are ready, it will first be necessary to prepare the teeth by filing down a little of the natural enamel. This is done for several reasons. Firstly, it creates a rougher surface which the adhesive that is being used to attach your veneers can better adhere to. Secondly, it prevents the tooth from looking unnaturally thick once the veneer is in place. A local anesthetic is provided so that the filing doesn’t cause you any discomfort. Once complete, the veneers can be applied and secured individually.

Since dental enamel cannot regenerate, once you have had a tooth prepared for a veneer it will always require a veneer to cover it.

What cosmetic issues can veneers help to resolve?

Veneers can be used to resolve a variety of different cosmetic dental issues, including the following:

Discoloration and Staining:

Over time, our teeth can be affected by the colors in the foods and drinks we consume, and by other toxins, we are exposed to – such as nicotine from smoking. Veneers can be used to cover any discoloration and staining, restoring the teeth to a natural or improved shade.

Cover Minor Damage:

As well as covering stains, veneers can cover other minor imperfections including chips and cracks, improving the overall appearance of your smile.

Make Teeth Look More Uniform in Appearance:

Veneers can be used to make slight alterations to the height, width or thickness of teeth so that they look more uniform and as a result, more attractive.

Are there any non-cosmetic benefits associated with veneers?

Much like most cosmetic dentistry procedure, there are also several health-related benefits associated with the placement of dental veneers.

Closing The Gaps in Your Smile Means Better Oral Health

Very few people have teeth that come through in perfect alignment with one another and small gaps between individual teeth are very common. Unfortunately, these gaps are ideal breeding grounds for plaque since bacteria and food debris can become trapped inside where it is very difficult for a toothbrush to reach. By closing these gaps with veneers, you can benefit from a decreased risk of cavities and periodontal disease.

Add Strength To Your Teeth;

Veneers may look fragile, but they are actually surprisingly robust. When they are placed, they can protect the outer enamel of your teeth and give them added strength. This could help ensure that your natural teeth are retained for longer.

At Castro Valley Dentistry, we are delighted to be able to offer our patients the cosmetic and functional benefits of dental veneers. If you would like to schedule a consultation, please get in touch with our experience team here at our offices in Castro Valley, CA on (510) 674-0900.