Dental veneers can improve the appearance of teeth and also protect teeth, as well as, protect them from damage. Located in Silver Spring, Maryland, Dr. Joseph E. Frew provides dental veneers for patients with cosmetic tooth problems, such as discoloration, cracks, uneven spacing, or chipped teeth.
Veneers Q & A
What are dental veneers?
Dental veneers are composite or porcelain layers that are fitted over the surface of teeth to correct cosmetic flaws, including teeth that are:
- Worn down
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Misaligned, uneven, or poorly shaped
- Have gaps in teeth, minor twists or overlap
What can I expect from the dental veneer process?
The process begins with Dr. Frew removing a small amount of tooth enamel, the same thickness of the veneer that will be applied. Next temporary veneers are affixed to protect the teeth while your permanent, custom-crafted veneers are fabricated. Once your permanent veneers are ready, they are securely bonded in place with a special resin cement.
What are the benefits of dental veneers?
Dental veneers provide patients more attractive smiles, as well as, extra protection from damage. Among their many benefits, veneers:
- Offers a relatively conservative approach to improving the color, shape or size of a tooth.
- Unlike crowns, with veneers a patient’s natural teeth remain largely intact; only a minimal enamel filing amount being altered to fit the veneer.
- Veneers last for up to ten years.
- Unlike natural teeth, custom-made veneers resist coffee and tea stains, and cigarette smoke because they are made of high-tech materials.
Dental veneers offer a high degree of durability as well, which reduces the risk of damage to these coverings. Having dental veneers done rather than crowns also means that patients don’t need to have as much enamel or other tooth structures removed to make room.
How long do dental veneers last?
Dental veneers are designed to last for at least 7 years, although some can last for as long as 20 years or more. Patients who brush their teeth regularly and have routine cleanings done can expect to have dental veneers for many years. Poor care at home and a lack of preventative care can shorten the lifespan of dental veneers.