If you’ve heard all about the many suggested benefits of dental veneers in Winnetka and Deerfield, it’s time to find out exactly how these modern dental appliances work. Even teeth that are perfectly straight may have a slightly uneven appearance, and teeth in different parts of the mouth experience wear at different rates. Natural tooth color can also vary significantly even in the same patient. Dental veneers are designed to address these slight differences between teeth by covering the surfaces with thin, durable material. Veneers are also a great choice for individuals who have chipped or widely spaced teeth. In some cases, a dental veneer may even be used to add an extra layer of strength and protection to a weak or damaged tooth.
Veneers are made of either composite resin or dental-grade porcelain that is similar to the material used in crowns. Composite veneers are applied directly to the surface of the teeth while porcelain veneers are custom-made to fit over the top of each tooth. The first step of the veneer application process is carefully cleaning the surfaces of the teeth in preparation for the veneer. Each veneer is then attached in place using specially made dental cement that’s quickly cured using ultraviolet light. If properly cared for, composite veneers can be expected to last five to seven years. More durable porcelain veneers have an expected life of 15 years or more.
Whether you’re interested in dental veneers to address a single damaged tooth or to enhance the overall appearance of your smile, the team at Chicago Beautiful Smiles may be able to help. Call our office if you’re anywhere in the greater Chicago area to schedule an appointment for an initial consultation with one of our experienced dentists today.
