Veneers Q & A

What are veneers?

Veneers are porcelain shells that your Century Village Dental provider bonds to the front of your permanent teeth. Once placed, they make your smile more balanced and aesthetically pleasing.

Some people get only one veneer, but the team at Century Village Dental recommends getting between six and eight. An even number helps ensure that the final results look as natural as possible.

What types of cosmetic problems can veneers fix?

At Century Village Dental, the team uses veneers to fix various cosmetic problems, including:

  • Broken or chipped teeth
  • Severe discoloration
  • Smaller-than-average teeth
  • Gaps between the teeth
  • Pointy teeth

You might also be a candidate for veneers if you have unusually shaped teeth.

Who is an ideal candidate for veneers?

To get veneers, you need to have straight teeth and healthy gums. If your teeth are crowded or crooked or you have gum disease, the team at Century Village Dental recommends orthodontics or periodontal treatment first.

What does getting veneers involve?

At Century Village Dental, getting veneers takes two visits spaced several weeks apart.

Your provider reviews your dental records, completes an oral exam, and takes digital X-rays. Then, your provider administers a local anesthetic and shaves a thin layer of enamel from each tooth (about one millimeter thick).

Next, they take impressions of your mouth and send your molds to a dental lab. The lab then creates a custom set of veneers. 

You return to Century Village Dental when your veneers are ready two or three weeks later. Your provider administers a local anesthetic, bonds the veneers to the front of your teeth, and checks your bite. After treatment, they explain how to keep your veneers in optimal condition.

How long do veneers last?

Veneers last between 12-15 years* on average, but you can extend their use by practicing good oral hygiene. The team at Century Village Dental recommends brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing regularly, and visiting the office every six months for preventive teeth cleaning.

Veneers are tough, but they can experience wear-and-tear. Therefore, avoiding bad habits, such as nail-biting, chewing on ice cubes, or opening packaging with your teeth, is crucial.

To find out if you’re a good candidate for veneers, call Century Village Dental or schedule an appointment online today.

*Individual results may vary