Dental Veneers: A Complete Guide

Dental veneers are an incredibly common dental practice. But how much do you really know about them? Read here to learn all about dental veneers.

If you aren't completely happy with your smile, you certainly aren't alone. In fact, 57% of Americans say that they cover their mouth when they laugh due to insecurity over their teeth. Missing, misaligned, misshapen, or discolored teeth can have a major impact on a person's confidence, self-esteem, and overall outgoingness, something that can affect their social, work, and romantic lives.



For people seeking to improve the appearance of their teeth and smiles, dental veneers are a wonderful option. In this blog post, your expert team at SoHo Dental Group will highlight everything you need to know about dental veneers. This includes the different types of veneers, the benefits, how to prepare for dental veneers, and how to look after them.

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers can be defined as thin, tooth-colored wafers that attach to the front side of teeth in order to improve their appearance. They can be thought of in the same way as false nails, which are applied to nails as a means of improving their appearance.

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

• Smaller than average teeth
• Broken teeth
• Chipped teeth
• Pointed or unusually sharp teeth
• Discolored teeth



An individual may opt for a single veneer or, depending on the case, choose multiple veneers to create a symmetrical smile. In the latter instance, typically 6 to 8 veneers are applied.

What Are the Different Types of Veneers?

We noted above there are different types of dental veneers and the main options are porcelain and composite resin. Let's take a look at both of these options in turn.

Porcelain Veneers

The premium choice when it comes to dental veneers is porcelain. Compared to composite resin, these veneers are highly durable and are a more permanent solution to the above cosmetic concerns.

Porcelain veneers are also long-lasting and stain-resistant, as well as being more natural-looking in their appearance. With proper care, they can last for up to 20 years or even more.

When it comes to getting porcelain veneers, the first step is to file down the existing tooth. This creates the necessary space for the veneer to be placed onto the front surface of the tooth. Next, an impression of the tooth will be taken for the creation of a mold, which is used to create a veneer that is fully customized.

The final step is to place and then cement the veneer in place. A temporary veneer may be used while waiting for the personalized porcelain veneer to be created.

Composite Resin Veneers

In comparison to the approximately 20-year lifespan of porcelain veneers, composite resin veneers have a lifespan of between 5 and 10 years. They are a more affordable option and provide a life-like appearance.

These veneers consist of a thin layer of composite material that is applied to the surface of a tooth after it has been etched. Multiple layers may be applied in order to achieve the intended look. The final step is to harden the veneer, which is done using a special light.

Preparing for Dental Veneers

During your initial consultation, we will discuss with you your preferred option and the number of veneers you would like. An overall oral health check will also be performed to check that you are a good candidate.

Prior to undergoing this cosmetic procedure, it may be necessary to undergo other types of dental treatment. For example, people with tooth decay or gum disease may not be suitable candidates for dental veneers.



Above, we have highlighted how dental veneers are applied to teeth. Once this has been performed, your dentist will thoroughly clean the teeth. This is done to stop bacteria from becoming trapped under the veneer and causing decay. Check out our dental services that can help you get rid of tooth decay!

What Are the Benefits of Dental Veneers?

For people looking to improve the aesthetics of their teeth and smile, dental veneers are a highly recommended option. They are an easy, fast, and affordable option when it comes to fixing teeth.

Given that they are incredibly natural-looking, wafer-thin, and tooth-colored, no one will be able to tell that you have dental veneers. All they will know is that you are smiling a whole lot more!

Dental veneers are a minimally invasive dental procedure and (as we will highlight below) very easy to maintain. Furthermore, dental veneers are a good treatment option for people who have experienced enamel loss. This can occur for a number of reasons, such as eating highly acidic foods, acid reflux disease, and over-ambitious tooth-brushing.

How to Care for Your Veneers

There are a number of steps you can take to protect your dental veneers and increase their lifespan. These precautions include:

• Chew harder foods using your back teeth
• Wear a mouthguard when you play sports
• Use a retainer at night if you grind your teeth
• Do not chew on objects (such as pens and fingernails)
• Do not use teeth to open bottles or packaging



In terms of recovery time following the procedure, you will be able to eat and drink as normal as soon as the anesthetic (if applicable) has worn off.

Your Complete Guide to Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are a wonderful option for people who aren't completely satisfied with the appearance of their teeth. If you are interested in dental veneers or other dental procedures, your No. 1 dentist in New York, NY, is SoHo Dental Group. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.