Feeling like your smile isn’t all it could be? Many of our patients are concerned about how their teeth look, whether it’s the colour, shape or alignment. Luckily, there are many cosmetic dentistry procedures to help, ranging from teeth whitening to braces. One of the most popular procedures is dental veneers. So, let’s put a smile on your face with 10 of the most fascinating facts about dental veneers.

What are dental veneers?

Dental veneers are a thin layer of either porcelain or composite resin that sits over the front surface of your tooth. A dental veneer is custom-made to fit a specific, prepared tooth to replicate natural teeth. Though a single veneer can be made, many customers opt to get at least a few of their teeth done, for example, the top row of front teeth.

Fact 1: Getting veneers is an easy way to improve your smile

Porcelain veneers are one of the least invasive ways to improve your overall smile. Improving your smile has benefits beyond making your teeth look nicer. A great smile can add to your confidence, improve your mood, and make you happier and more comfortable with how you come across to others. The phrase “look good, feel good” has some truth behind it, especially if you feel self-conscious about your current smile.

Fact 2: Veneers can vary in quality

Like any product on the market, there is a range of veneers available, and they vary in overall quality. A lot of this can be attributed to the material used and how the veneer is manufactured. Composite and porcelain veneers can range from machine-made to hand layers and many variations in between.

When talking to your dentist, be sure to ask about your options and be crystal clear about what it is you’re paying for. Your choice can be the difference between an uncanny, fake smile and a stunning makeover.

Fact 3: Very little, if any, tooth reduction is needed to implant veneers

A big concern that stops many people from having veneers is the fear they’ll need their teeth shaved down. We get it. The phrase ‘Have your teeth shaved down’ sounds pretty unpleasant.

The great news is that veneers are designed to be minimally invasive and require little, if any, tooth reduction. As cosmetic dentistry goes, veneers are one of the most conservative and least drastic procedures you can have done.

Fact 4: Veneers help reduce pain and discomfort

For the most part, veneers are thought of as a way to address cosmetic concerns. However, there are times when having veneers applied can help with issues ranging from a sore jaw and headaches attributed to dental issues. If you’re experiencing these types of issues, it’s best to get professional advice on what the best treatment may be.

Fact 5: Your face shape will influence what the best veneers are for you

It may surprise you to learn that what’s happening outside your mouth plays a vital role in your choice of veneer. Your veneers need to work with the shape of your face to achieve the most natural-looking smile.

Heart-shaped face: This face type has the luck of being able to look good with most veneers but looks especially good with rounded veneers.

Oval-shaped face: Square-shaped veneers best suit the equally proportioned look of an oval-shaped face.

Square-shaped face: As square-shaped faces tend to look smaller and rounded, less edgy veneers are the ideal choice.

Round-shaped face: Another smaller face shape, so long, more pronounced veneers are your best bet.

Fact 6: Technology is always improving, and veneers are getting stronger

There are always advancements being made in the dental world, and that means veneers have never been better looking, more durable and more reliable than they are right now. The latest veneers are more resistant to corrosion and wear than natural tooth enamel. This also means that veneers have a longer expected lifespan, with the best expected to last for up to 20 years.

Fact 7: You maintain veneers the same way you look after regular teeth

So, you’ve decided to take the plunge and get veneers. A question you may have before the procedure, or right afterwards, is, ‘How exactly do I look after my new veneers?’

The good news is it is pretty much the same as you would with natural teeth. Responsible dental habits like brushing twice a day, flossing and getting regular check-ups all apply to those with veneers.

The one tip dentists will give you is to use non-abrasive toothpaste on your new smile. If you are not sure what this means, your dentist will be able to recommend, and even sell you, the best brands for you.

Fact 8: There are different types of veneers

There are a variety of different types of dental veneers on the market, with one of the biggest distinctions being temporary veneers and permanent veneers. You can probably figure out from the name that temporary veneers can be removed, while permanently bonded veneers cannot. Temporary veneers aren’t usually custom-made and will lack the more natural tooth look of permanent veneers.

Traditional porcelain veneers are usually agreed to be the top-of-the-line when it comes to veneers. Along with being translucent, porcelain veneers look more real. They’re also stain resistant and will remain looking new for a long time. The one downside is that porcelain veneers cost more than other materials, such as composite resin veneers.

Fact 9: There are tell-tale signs to avoid to make veneers look more natural

No one wants to spend their hard-earned money on a dental procedure only to end up with a weirder smile than they started with. Knowing what to avoid can be a lifesaver, and there are tell-tale signs that will make your teeth look fake or odd looking. Some of the common mistakes we’ve seen include:

• Unnaturally white: Anything that clashes with your natural teeth will be a dead giveaway, and if your veneers are too white, they’ll stand out for all the wrong reasons.
• No space between veneers: This is an overcompensation some people make that, unfortunately, has the opposite effect than they hoped for. Small gaps help give a natural look to your smile.
• Edges are too pointed or sharp: Again, little details like this will most likely clash with the rest of your teeth, instantly making your smile look less natural.
• You choose the wrong size or shape for your face type: Just like picking the right clothes size for your body can make a world of difference, you need to choose veneers that suit the way your face looks.

Fact 10: Many celebrities have veneers

Ever wondered how some of Hollywood’s biggest names manage to have such dazzling smiles, even as they enter their senior years? While actors and pop stars are often genetically blessed in the looks department, odds are their pearly whites have had a little help over the years.

Actor George Clooney, rapper 50 Cent, singer Miley Cyrus and even President Joe Biden, have all benefitted from cosmetic treatment that includes dental veneers. So, as you can see, getting cosmetic surgery on your teeth can give you a movie star smile.

Considering dental veneers for your teeth?

Thinking it’s time to take your smile to the next level? For veneers to look their best, you must have the best dentist performing the procedure. At KB Dental Village, our friendly, professional team is here to take care of all your dental needs. From a routine check-up to emergency surgery, we will provide the best care and expert advice to all our clientele and their families. If you’re looking to improve your smile or just need to book your next check-up, get in touch with our friendly team today.