If you dream of having a perfectly straight, bright, symmetrical smile, veneers are one of the easiest ways to make cosmetic improvements. At Georgetown Advanced Dentistry in Washington, DC, Sinclair Davis, DDS, Diana Diaz, RDH, and the rest of the team design custom veneers to fit your teeth. To explore veneers and other cosmetic dental treatments, call Georgetown Advanced Dentistry, or book an appointment online today.

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What are veneers?

Veneers are porcelain or composite resin shells that your dentist cements to the front surfaces of unattractive or broken teeth. Veneers perfect your smile and improve the look of your natural teeth.

Veneers are best suited for teeth in the front of your mouth that aren’t molars. They don’t really reinforce the structure of your teeth like crowns, but they’re strong and sturdy enough to stay on your incisors without falling off or breaking under the force of your bite. Their main purpose is to make your teeth more attractive so that you can smile with more confidence.

What can veneers correct?

The team at Georgetown Advanced Dentistry uses veneers to cover or correct many cosmetic issues affecting your smile. You can get as many veneers as you need according to the number of flaws affecting your teeth. A few of the most common reasons people get veneers are:

  • Heavy discoloration
  • Chips
  • Cracks
  • Wide gaps between teeth
  • Mildly crooked teeth
  • Tooth decay
  • Short or misshapen teeth

There are other treatment options available for some of these issues, like teeth whitening for discoloration. It’s up to you and your dentist to decide which treatment best serves your needs.

How long do veneers last?

If you get veneers, you can expect to wear them for the rest of your life. This is because your dentist removes some of the enamel from the surface of each tooth before placing the veneers, and you need veneers to protect them and replace the missing enamel. However, you might need to replace them somewhat regularly.

Porcelain veneers last longer than composite resin veneers. If you have a set of porcelain veneers, you can expect them to last around 20 years. Composite resin veneers are more prone to damage and staining; they last for around five years before you need to replace them.

How can I make my veneers last?

Taking great care of your veneers means you get the most out of them. You’re less likely to have to replace them early if you clean them, maintain them, and attend your six-month dental cleanings and exams at Georgetown Advanced Dentistry. Proper veneer care involves:

  • Avoiding chewing on solid objects
  • Using a mouthguard when you play contact sports
  • Avoiding tearing or breaking things with your teeth
  • Treating your bruxism (teeth grinding)

Composite resin veneers can stain over time. If you want them to look their best, you should avoid staining foods and substances like berries, coffee, and tobacco.

To discuss your options for veneers with a professional, call Georgetown Advanced Dentistry, or book an appointment online today.