Oral Health Support: Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored porcelain or resin composite material. They are used to recreate the natural look of teeth while also providing strength and resilience comparable to natural tooth enamel.

What is a veneer?

A dental veneer is a thin layer of porcelain that covers the front and top of a tooth. Porcelain is an excellent material for veneers because it is strong, stain-resistant, and mimics the look and feel of natural tooth enamel. Veneers address a variety of cosmetic concerns, including discoloration, chipped teeth, gaps between teeth, and misshapen teeth.

Each veneer is custom-made to fit your unique smile. The dentist will take x-rays and perform an exam to help determine whether veneers are right for you and your smile goals. If you are a good candidate for veneers, the dentist will schedule you for a second appointment so we can create and place your custom-crafted restorations. Typically, the process takes two weeks from start to finish. During your first appointment, we will prep your teeth for restoration by removing a small amount of enamel to accommodate the veneer. We will also take impressions so our lab can create your veneers. You will wear temporary veneers while we wait for your permanent ones to be created. At your next visit, your dentist will remove the temporary veneers and place the custom versions. Once they’re placed, you may feel some sensitivity or discomfort while your mouth adjusts to the new restorations; however, this will subside after a couple of days.

What are the benefits of veneers?

Veneers offer patients a number of benefits, including:

• Stain-resistant material
• A whiter smile
• Increased self-confidence
• Prevention of further tooth damage
• Improved dental health and function
• Restored confidence after tooth loss
• Balance of facial features
• Care for teeth with minor imperfections
• Lengthen short teeth
• Repair crooked teeth and straighten your bite
• Correct small gaps between teeth

Caring for veneers

Caring for your veneers is easy. Simply brush and floss your teeth as you normally would. While they are stain-resistant, you should still avoid staining drinks and foods to keep your smile bright for years to come. With proper care, your veneers can last for many years before needing to be replaced. However, we recommend coming in for regular cleanings and exams so we can monitor the health of your teeth and address any problems early before they progress to more significant issues.

Call us at 773-880-2310 or email us at office@sheffieldsquaredental.com to schedule your appointment. Visit Sheffield Square Dental Care at 2835 N. Sheffield Ave, Suite 305, Chicago, IL 60657.