If you aren't entirely happy with the appearance of your smile, you aren't alone. According to a recent survey, a majority of Americans say that they feel insecure about their teeth and smile.

Younger people are most likely to feel self-conscious about their smiles and say they often feel uneasy about laughing. Crooked teeth, gaps between teeth, and receding gums all play a role in the insecurities felt by many Americans when they laugh and smile.

There are a number of different options available to people interested in improving the aesthetics of their smile. One of the leading options is dental veneers.



In this blog post, we will highlight how veneers can improve your smile and, with it, your confidence and self-esteem. We will highlight the different types of veneers that are available today, the process of applying them, their benefits, and how to care for them. Let's get started.

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry procedure. They are thin and tooth-colored wafers that are attached to the front side of teeth. In this way, they are comparable to false nails, which are applied to the surface of nails to improve their appearance.

The veneers are typically made from either porcelain or resin composite materials and are permanently bonded to the teeth. They are an excellent option to treat a range of cosmetic concerns, including:

• Broken or chipped teeth
• Discolored teeth
• Smaller than average teeth
• Unusually sharp or pointy teeth

Every case is different, and patients may choose to get a single dental veneer. Multiple dental veneers are also common (typically 6 to 8 veneers). They help to create an all-around symmetrical smile.

What Are the Different Types of Veneers?

We have noted that there are two main types of dental veneers: porcelain and resin composite materials. Other options do exist, such as no-prep veneers. Here, we will highlight what you need to know about the two most common types of veneers.

Porcelain Veneers

Patients looking for the premium option should opt for porcelain veneers. They are long-lasting, with an expected lifespan of between 10 and 20 years. In the vast majority of cases, patients can expect at least 10-plus years from their veneers, with many cases of 20-year lifespan noted.

This makes porcelain veneers a more long-term solution compared to composite veneers. What's more, they are highly durable, stain-resistant, and natural-looking.

For porcelain veneer, the target tooth or teeth will be filed down so as to make space for the veneer to be placed onto the surface. Using an impression of the tooth or teeth, your dentist will create a customized porcelain veneer. When ready, the veneer is placed onto the tooth and cemented into place.

Composite Resin Veneers

Composite veneers do not last for as long as porcelain veneers. They can be expected to last between 5 and 10 years. Compared to porcelain veneers, they are more affordable while still providing a life-like appearance.



The application process here is somewhat different from that of porcelain veneers. Your dentist will apply a thin layer of composite material to the etched surface of the target tooth or teeth. Several layers may be applied to the teeth using adhesive to achieve the intended look and the veneer will then be hardened with a special light.

How Do You Prepare for Dental Veneers?

When you schedule your consultation with your dentist, you will be able to discuss your preferred option and the number of veneers you wish to have placed.

Depending on the current condition of your teeth and your overall oral hygiene, your dentist may first recommend another type of dental treatment prior to applying dental veneers. For example, people with tooth decay or gum disease may not be ideal candidates for dental veneers. Treating these conditions first may be necessary.



Check out our veneers page here to learn more about the process as a whole.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Veneers?

As a cosmetic procedure, dental veneers are designed to improve the appearance of a person's teeth and smile. Dental veneers are an affordable, easy, and fast solution for improving the aesthetics of a smile. Given that they are wafer-thin and tooth-colored, no one will know that you have veneers.

Dental veneers are a minimally invasive dental procedure, as well as being durable and easy to maintain.



They are also a treatment option for people who have experienced enamel loss. This can occur for several reasons, including acid reflux disease, eating acidic foods, and overly-ambitious tooth brushing.

How Do You Care for Your Dental Veneers?

We recommend that you take the following precautions to maintain your dental veneers and maximize their lifespan:

• Do not chew on objects such as fingernails or pens
• Do not use teeth to open packaging or bottles
• Wear a mouthguard while playing sports
• If you grind your teeth a night, wear a retainer
• Use your back teeth to chew harder foods



In addition, brushing twice daily and flossing at least once per day can help to prolong the lifespan of veneers.

See for Yourself How Veneers Can Improve Your Smile