An attractive smile is an invaluable social asset. It not only indicates that you take good care of your oral hygiene, but it also makes you seem more friendly and approachable. However, a charming smile is only possible when one has perfectly aligned, pearly white teeth. If you are among those people who feel self-conscious about their crooked and stained teeth ruining their smile and personality, no need to worry; cosmetic dentistry is at your service!
But what is the most suitable cosmetic option for restoring my teeth? You may ask! Well, dental veneers are the most commonly used cosmetic dental option for this purpose. But, this is not the only option. In this blog, we will discuss dental veneers and other options that can be used for restoring flawed or blemished teeth. So, read on!
What Are The Various Types Of Dental Veneers?
According to the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, a veneer is an ultra-thin shell of porcelain or composite used to restore the structure, shape, and aesthetics of damaged teeth. Veneers are bonded to the front surfaces of the prepared teeth using adhesive. Based on their material, veneers are of two main types: composite and porcelain veneers.
Composite veneers are made of tooth-coloured polymer resins that are activated using a special light. These veneers can be prepared either at the dental chairside or in a dental laboratory. On the other hand, porcelain veneers are made of tooth-coloured porcelains. These veneers go through multiple stages of fabrication. Hence, they are fabricated in the dental laboratory only.
Do Composite Veneers Look Natural?
Dental veneers, composite or porcelain, look natural. This is because both veneers are tooth-coloured and your dentist can precisely match their colour and shade with your natural teeth. As a result, composite and porcelain veneers blend in perfectly with your own teeth and become virtually invisible. So yes; composite veneers do look naturally pleasing.
Do Veneers Act As A Protective Covering Around The Teeth?
The main purpose of veneers is to mask the cosmetic and structural flaws of the teeth. Hence, they also act as protective coatings around the teeth. However, as mentioned earlier, their main role is cosmetic and aesthetic rather than protective. If protection and strength are needed along with cosmetic restoration, then porcelain crowns may be a better option. Your cosmetic dentist can suggest a suitable aesthetic option for restoring your teeth after a thorough clinical examination.
Should I Get Dental Veneers Or Dental Bonding?
Before you decide between two options, let us first understand how they work. Because, while both bonding and veneers have the same use - to restore damaged teeth - they work differently. For example, in bonding, a tooth-coloured filling material is directly bonded to the tooth’s surface using adhesive. This filling material is applied and shaped incrementally and then hardened using a special light. On the other hand, a veneer is a porcelain or composite shell that is made in the laboratory and then bonded to the prepared teeth with an adhesive. So, while composite bonding is a type of a direct restoration, veneers are indirect restorations as they are bonded to teeth after their fabrication.
Now that we understand these two treatment options, let us consider which option to choose. Ideally, dental veneers are a better option for restoring teeth as they are fabricated in the dental laboratory. As a result, they possess minimal structural or fabrication-related flaws. So, whenever possible, one should go for veneers, especially when the aesthetics of the front teeth are the primary concern.
What Is The Difference Between Teeth Whitening And Veneers?
Tooth whitening is a procedure in which a bleaching agent is applied to the teeth to remove adherent stains, such as coffee, tobacco, tea, and curry stains. Teeth whitening is among the most commonly performed cosmetic dental procedures worldwide. However, there are certain cases when teeth whitening is not possible. For example, when a tooth has become permanently stained due to tetracycline intake during tooth development or internal bleeding. In these cases, veneers are attached to these to hide the stains and restore facial aesthetics cosmetically.
How Do You Decide Between Braces And Veneers?
Veneers can also be used for the cosmetic restoration of mild tooth overcrowding or misalignment. However, veneers do not fix the underlying issue; they only restore the aesthetics. If one wants to treat the underlying problem, then one must get braces or clear aligners to realign the teeth. In fact, orthodontic treatment with braces or aligners is the ideal treatment option for crooked teeth. However, if someone cannot afford orthodontic treatment or need quick results, they may consider cosmetic restoration of the issue with veneers.
What Is The Best Alternative Of Metal Braces For Unaligned Teeth?
If someone does not want to get braces, they may consider clear aligners, which are more convenient, comfortable, and inconspicuous. Similarly, another alternative may be to use veneers to mask the misalignment.
What Are The 5 Most Famous Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures?
Cosmetic dentistry can truly transform one’s personality and smile. Here are the 5 most famous cosmetic dentistry procedures available worldwide:
- Teeth whitening
- Porcelain veneers or lumineers
- Porcelain crowns
- Clear braces
- Cosmetic bonding
If you have cosmetic facial flaws affecting your self-confidence and smile, cosmetic dentistry offers many safe and effective options to get rid of them. If you are looking for a reliable and cost-effective cosmetic dentist in Chingford, Head over to Chingford Mount Dental Practice today and walk away with your dream smile. Request a virtual consultation today!
