Did you know that your smile is one of the first things people notice about you in an encounter? And let’s face it — we all want to make an excellent first impression. It is a great way to start off on the right foot and leave a lasting impact. We know that first impressions matter a great deal, both in our professional lives and personal relationships. There are many studies suggesting that people with better smiles are considered smarter and have higher chances of landing a job.
We don’t want you missing out on any opportunities in life. If you’re not happy with how your teeth look and want to improve your smile, you’ve come to the right place. Dental veneers might just be the answer you’ve been searching for.
Although most people attribute the desire for veneers to an improved aesthetic appearance, a uniform smile, and healthy gums can do much more than just make you look good. They are essential to maintaining overall oral health. In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about this simple procedure, including its benefits, drawbacks, and more.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are tooth-colored, wafer-thin sheets that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth. They can improve your smile by changing the shape, size, and color of your teeth.
Veneers are commonly made from porcelain or resin composite and can bond to teeth with special cement, concealing imperfections and improving their appearance. Although they can be applied to any tooth the patient desires, they are commonly attached to the upper eight front teeth of the mouth to create an even and symmetrical smile. These teeth show the most when you smile.
Who Are the Perfect Candidates for Dental Veneers?
As they say, a smile is the most beautiful accessory you can wear. A perfect smile can be a game-changer, boosting your self-esteem, uplifting your mood, and enhancing your ability to connect with others. Some even say that it can influence the success of your personal and business relationships more than any other part of your appearance. Studies show that people with straight and white teeth are perceived to be more attractive, healthier, wealthier, and more educated. A smile can be indicative of true happiness, joy, and contentment, qualities that are undeniably the most desirable ones anyone can possess. On the flip side, a less-than-perfect smile can have the opposite effect.
People with discolored teeth are generally more likely to be dissatisfied with the appearance of their smiles. Tooth discoloration also negatively impacts the mental health of these individuals and may also cause anxiety and depression.
Several factors can affect your smile, including tooth staining, unsightly gaps, or crooked teeth. As troublesome and frustrating as these problems may seem, dental veneers can fix them.
Veneers can be used to address a variety of cosmetic concerns and help improve the appearance of your smile. Discussed below are some smile flaws that can be remedied by dental veneers:
- 1
Tooth Discoloration and Staining
One’s appearance can be emblematic of their virtues, such as professional success, financial success, and trustworthiness. Research shows that people with white teeth are generally perceived to be more attractive, confident, wealthier, and well-educated than people with discolored teeth. A study done in 2012 provides evidence that tooth color is a factor that people take into consideration when choosing their romantic partners.
However, keeping our teeth white can be quite challenging with our diet generally consisting of many foods and beverages that can stain teeth, our lifestyle, which may include smoking and using other tobacco products, and the natural and inevitable process of aging. There are many other factors that can cause tooth discoloration and staining. Some common culprits include poor oral hygiene, smoking, dental trauma, old age, certain medications, foods and drinks, and some conditions like amelogenesis imperfecta and fluorosis. If you long for white teeth but your diet contains foods and drinks that stain your teeth, such as coffee, tea, wine, and berries, or if you have medication-induced stains that teeth whitening has not been able to remove, many dentists are of the view that dental veneers may just turn out to be your holy grail.
Dental veneers have the power to transform your smile by covering up any discoloration and staining and giving you a smile that’s customized to your preference. With a smile as perfect as that, you’ll be spreading warmth and happiness wherever you go!
- 2
Fractured, Chipped, and Worn Teeth
Chipped or worn teeth are a common complaint patients present with at dental clinics. Fractures, cracks, and uneven tooth edges may result from dental trauma, biting on hard objects, and parafunctional habits like teeth grinding. Veneers can be used to cover these imperfections and provide a uniform smile.
- 3
Size or Shape Irregularities
Slightly crooked, rotated, or smaller-than-average teeth can compromise the aesthetics of a smile and cause self-esteem issues for many people. However, dental veneers may provide a quick fix for this problem and help unveil your best smile. Although veneers cannot straighten or realign your teeth, they can still address this issue by covering the crooked teeth and giving your smile an even and uniform look.
- 4
Gapped teeth
Teeth gaps can be quite embarrassing for some people and negatively affect their self-esteem. If you’re someone who is self-conscious about your teeth gaps, you don’t have to be anymore. Luckily, there are a few treatment options available that can address your concerns effectively and restore your self-confidence.
Gaps between teeth are commonly closed with traditional orthodontic treatment (braces), but with that, good results can take a long time to show. Dental veneers are a popular choice for concealing any spaces or gaps you might have in either your front teeth (diastema) or throughout the rest of your dentition in just a few weeks. Although veneers aren’t preferred for closing very large gaps, they’re ideal for small gaps and can provide you with a harmonious smile.
What Materials Are Used to Make Veneers?
If you’re considering getting dental veneers, you’ll be interested in learning what they’re made of. Veneers are commonly made from either porcelain, composite, or ceramic. There are pros and cons associated with all types of veneers, so it’s important to keep in mind the kind of problem you’re hoping to solve with veneers to ensure you pick the right one that meets your needs. Another important consideration is your budget.
Porcelain veneers are custom-made according to your dental anatomy and can treat various dental anomalies. Ceramic veneers are synthesized from a type of porcelain. Composite veneers are made of composite resin, the same material used for filling cavities. They can only conceal mild defects and imperfections. Composite veneers can be applied either directly or indirectly to your teeth. The difference lies only in the application process and not in the type of material used.
Getting dental veneers is a big decision that can drastically change your smile, so make sure you are fully informed about your options before deciding what material is best for you. Below are some characteristics of the types of veneers discussed, providing you with some insight into veneer material:
Porcelain or Ceramic Veneers (E-Max veneers)
- Porcelain veneers are much stronger than composite veneers and can last more than twenty years if you care for them properly. Composite veneers, on the other hand, have a much shorter life span and need to be replaced every five or seven years.
- They offer better aesthetic outcomes than composite veneers, as they can closely match the natural shade and translucency of teeth.
- Porcelain veneers can be used to fix a wide variety of issues, including darkly stained teeth and abnormally positioned teeth.
- Porcelain veneers bond better to your teeth than composite ones.
- They don’t stain or chip over time, so you never have to worry about the aesthetics of your smile deteriorating in the long run.
- The price of a porcelain veneer is higher as compared to a composite veneer.
Composite Veneers
- Composite veneers require minimal tooth preparation, meaning that less tooth structure needs to be compromised and more tooth enamel can be preserved.
- Composite veneers can be applied to your teeth faster than porcelain ones (if applied directly).
- They’re cheaper than porcelain veneers.
- Although they are not very durable, composite veneers are easier to fix if damaged.
- Resin veneers are more prone to breakage and staining. They’re also more likely to accumulate plaque. This can lead to decay underneath the composite veneers, compromising the structural integrity of the tooth and, subsequently, the longevity of the veneer.
- Composite veneers can only be used to treat mild issues.
What Are the Types of Dental Veneers Available at Blanc Dentaire, Montreal, QC?
At Blanc Dentaire, we believe that our investment in advanced state-of-the-art technology allows us to provide our patients with the latest, most convenient, and comfortable treatment options. We offer First Fit veneers, E-max veneers, no-prep veneers, and 3D-printed veneers.
First Fit Veneers
- First Fit veneers are prepared using an advanced software that employs a minimally invasive technique that not only focuses on preserving as much of your natural healthy tooth structure as possible but also significantly simplifies and streamlines the tooth preparation.
- The First Fit technology provides custom-made tooth preparation guides that enable tooth preparation with the utmost accuracy and precision, ensuring minimal enamel reduction. Using a conservative approach allows for a more durable and compatible dental restoration that aligns with the natural dynamics of the tooth.
- Once the tooth preparation is complete, this advanced state-of-the-art system fabricates veneers that are all seated on your teeth in a single, swift, and precise movement, using a special delivery guide.
- The procedure for getting First Fit veneers is quick, and these are often completed in a single appointment, reducing the need for multiple visits. With this technology, you can now get immediate results.
- First Fit veneers have an immaculate aesthetic appeal. Designed to closely match natural teeth in color and shape, they can drastically improve and brighten your smile.
- They are made from strong, long-lasting composite resin material.
E-max Veneers
- E-max veneers are made from a special lithium disilicate glass ceramic material.
- They require less tooth reduction than traditional porcelain veneers, making them a more conservative treatment option than the latter.
- E-max veneers have exceptional aesthetic qualities and give your teeth the natural luster and translucence of a healthy smile. This can be attributed to the translucence, opalescence, and light diffusion properties of the glass ceramic material from which these veneers are made.
- One of the biggest advantages of e-Max veneers is their ability to closely match the shade of your natural teeth for seamless integration and a natural-looking smile. You can choose a precise shade and color of eMax veneers to improve the color of one or more stained teeth to give you a flawless smile.
- E-max veneers are harder, tougher, and thinner than traditional porcelain veneers, meaning that they offer better durability and require less tooth preparation than traditional veneers.
No-Prep Veneers
- As the name implies, no-prep veneers are ultra-thin coverings that require only minimal alteration of the existing tooth enamel to make room for the veneer; they are bonded directly to the tooth instead. For this reason, they are usually a reversible treatment option for improving the appearance of teeth. This means they can be removed, if needed, without causing much harm to the underlying tooth.
- The biggest advantage of no-prep veneers is that they do not harm the natural tooth structure and offer the least invasive veneer option.
- While no-prep veneers can certainly enhance the appearance of your teeth, they can only treat minor imperfections. They may not be the ideal option for addressing more significant issues, such as severe discoloration, crooked teeth (malposed teeth), or rotated teeth.
- No-prep veneers are the best solution for people with generally healthy teeth who want veneers while avoiding any kind of wear or damage on them.
- As these veneers are so respectful of the natural tooth structure, the procedure for getting them does not require anesthesia unless you’re very sensitive.
3D Printed Veneers
- 3D printing has revolutionized every aspect of dentistry, and veneers are no exception. Using a digital scanner to take digital impressions and a 3D printer to fabricate them, dental veneers can be prepared in a single appointment at a reduced cost.
- 3D-printed veneers are crafted using high-quality, ultra-thin composite resin, porcelain, or ceramic materials in a fraction of the time taken for traditional veneers.
- 3D-printed veneers offer high precision and accuracy, ensuring a comfortable fit.
- With 3D printing, your dentist can create an aesthetic mockup of your smile and share it with you, asking for your input. This allows them to work with you to digitally design your smile, keeping your suggestions and preferences in view, before proceeding with the fabrication process. This kind of treatment planning provides you with the chance to make an informed decision with confidence.
Not every veneer may be suitable for you. Choosing the right type of veneer depends on many factors, including your needs, budget, and desired outcome. Discuss all your dental needs and preferences with your dentist to help them work out the best type of dental veneer for you. To book a consultation, click here or visit our call at (514)-933-3368 or (514)-564-4554.
What Is the Procedure for Getting Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers can help transform your smile in the most desirable ways: swiftly, conservatively, and painlessly. Your dentist will call you to their clinic two or three times before you get your veneers. Here’s what you can expect during those appointments:
First Visit-The Initial Consultation
During the consultation visit, your dentist will address your concerns and assess whether you are a good candidate for veneers. They will do this by taking a detailed history and performing a physical exam. A comprehensive history is essential for your dentist to know why you want to get veneers. This will give them a better idea of the kind of veneers to give you.
The physical exam is used to check your overall oral hygiene and identify any issues present in your mouth, such as cavities or gum disease, before proceeding with the veneers. During this visit, you can expect them to take X-rays, photos, and sometimes even impressions of your teeth. In the case that your dentist does not consider you to be a suitable candidate for veneers, they will suggest an alternative treatment option for you and devise a customized treatment plan that meets your needs.
Teeth Preparation and Fitting and Bonding of the Veneers
Once you have been selected as a suitable candidate for veneers, your dentist will start preparing your teeth to receive the veneers. They will clean your teeth to remove any plaque that might interfere with the bonding process of the tooth to the veneer. After that, they will remove a small amount of enamel and slightly ‘roughen’ the surface of the tooth to which the veneer will be applied. This step of enamel removal is essential to make room for the veneer and to ensure the cement adheres properly to the tooth and keeps the veneer in place.
Your dentist will then take an impression of your teeth and send it to the laboratory, where your veneers will be fabricated and customized according to your dental anatomy. At Blanc Dentaire, we have an in-house state-of-the-art laboratory with high-end machinery to craft high-quality veneers for you without any delays. This means that you won’t have to deal with long waiting times, as with other clinics, and you can receive your veneers the same day.
When your veneers are ready, your dentist will have you try them on to check if the size, color, fit, and overall appearance are suitable for you. They will also check your bite and make any necessary adjustments. If you don’t like the shape or color of your new veneers, you can let your dentist know at this stage, and they’ll have it fixed for you.
If all is well, your veneers will be bonded to your teeth with the help of cement right away. If not, they may need to be sent back to the lab for adjustments to be made. This isn’t a painful procedure; your dentist might give you an anesthetic to make this a comfortable experience for you. Your gums might feel sore for a little while afterward, but you’ll be fine in a few hours.
How To Care for Your Dental Veneers?
Caring for your veneers doesn’t require much more than what you already do to take care of your teeth. Here is an aftercare checklist to help you make sure you take the right steps necessary to keep your veneers in good shape:
Maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine
- Brush all surfaces of your teeth carefully twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Avoid using abrasive toothpaste containing harsh chemicals like hydrogen peroxide, sodium bicarbonate, or baking soda, as they can damage your veneers.
- Floss carefully between the teeth and around the veneer daily to remove food debris and plaque stuck in the tiny crevices is non-negotiable.
Refrain from biting into hard things
- Try not to bite on hard foods such as raw fruits and vegetables, meat with bones, ice, and hard candy. This carries the risk of chipping or fracturing the veneers.
Break unhealthy habits
- Do not use your teeth as tools to cut, open, or tear anything to prevent damage to the veneers. If you have a habit of chewing on ice, ditch it.
Keep your new smile safe
- If you have a habit of clenching or grinding your teeth, your dentist may suggest wearing a nightguard while sleeping to prevent any damage to your veneers. Similarly, if you engage in contact sports, it is recommended that you wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth from any accidental blows to the face.
Schedule regular dental visits
- Show up to all your dentist appointments for routine check-ups and cleanings. This will allow your dentist to examine your mouth and ensure that your veneers are doing well.
With these daily practices, you can guarantee good dental care and maintenance of your veneers.
Are There Any Potential Drawbacks Associated with Dental Veneers?
There are a few problems that can arise when you get veneers, including:
- Tooth sensitivity. Some people complain of experiencing increased tooth sensitivity after getting veneers. You may experience slight sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures after the procedure as it involves the removal of your tooth enamel, the topmost layer of your teeth. However, this usually subsides on its own within a few days, so you shouldn’t worry about it too much. Tooth sensitivity can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, but there are some easy remedies available to help you manage it. We recommend using toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth during this time to relieve the pain. It also has the ability to repair and strengthen the weakened enamel.
- Irreversible treatment option. Getting veneers is an irreversible procedure, as your dentist has to temper your natural tooth structure and remove some enamel to make room for the veneers. Once removed, your enamel does not have the ability to regrow. Your tooth structure is changed permanently when you receive dental veneers.
- Prone to breakage. Dental veneers, especially porcelain veneers, are hailed as quite durable. However, if excessive force or pressure is applied to them, they can break, chip, or fracture. Although they can be repaired, the process is costly. To prevent any damage to your veneers, avoid biting on hard objects and tearing open packages or bottles with your teeth.
- Tooth decay under veneers. If you already have veneers, and you notice that they’re starting to break down or detect a cavity developing underneath them, immediately see your dentist and have them checked. The importance of early detection of tooth decay beneath dental veneers cannot be stressed enough. They must be replaced to stop the decay from destroying the remaining tooth structure below the veneer.
Are there any contraindications to getting dental veneers?
While most people can safely get dental veneers, there are a few cases where dental veneers are contraindicated, including:
- Parafunctional habits, such as bruxism (tooth clenching) and nail-biting. Patients who clench their teeth and aggressively bite their nails are at risk of damaging their teeth and veneers. For this reason, it is best to address the cause of bruxism before giving them dental veneers. This will minimize the patient’s risk of dental and veneer trauma and ensure good long-term results.
- Poor oral hygiene. You must take good care of your veneers to ensure that they look and function well for a long time. Veneers require meticulous oral hygiene to prevent decay or gum disease from developing around the edges and maintain their appearance. If you want dental veneers, you need to be willing to commit to good dental hygiene.
- Insufficient enamel. The presence of a sufficient layer of enamel is vital for dental veneers to bond properly to the teeth. Without enough enamel to bond to, they won’t be able to stick to your teeth and cause problems down the road. You will need a full-coverage restoration, like a crown, to cover a tooth that doesn’t have sufficient enamel present.
- Severe gum disease. If you have active gum disease, it must be addressed before dental veneer placement, as it can weaken the bond of the veneer to the teeth and compromise its longevity and long-term success.
- Severely crooked teeth. Dental veneers can successfully conceal the appearance of mildly crooked teeth. However, if your teeth are severely malposed, veneers won’t be able to address that concern, and your dentist will recommend braces instead to fix it.
While they offer many advantages, dental veneers are not for everyone. Your dentist will check if you’re a good candidate for veneers before proceeding with the procedure to ensure successful treatment outcomes.
How Much Do Dental Veneers Cost in Canada?
Veneers are not inexpensive and are typically not covered by insurance as they are considered to be cosmetic procedures. The price can vary depending on how much work is required in your mouth for veneer placement, the material used, the number of veneers needed, the location of your dentist, and the lab costs.
Veneers are quite an investment, so please don’t hesitate to talk to your dentist about the pricing and discuss financial plans. For more information about the payment plans we offer, please get in touch with our team here or visit our clinic in Rue Saint-Jacques or Roe Jean-Talon O, Montreal, Canada.
Finding the Right Dentist for Dental Veneers in Canada
When considering any dental treatment, such as dental veneers or implants, it is important to make an informed decision and choose a highly skilled and qualified dentist. Your dental health is important, and we recommend that you give it the attention it deserves.
Choosing the right dentist is crucial to ensure that you receive the best possible care and treatment. With a treatment that’s right for you and suits your needs, you can rest assured that your dental needs are taken care of, and you get to enjoy the smile of your dreams. So, take the time to research and find a good dentist, and your teeth will thank you later. If you are located in Canada, we recommend that you visit Dr. Dan Munteanu at Blanc Dentaire, a dentist in Montreal renowned for his expertise in smile reconstruction with crowns, veneers, dental implants, and other aesthetic treatments.
If you’re interested in enhancing your smile and want to know more about aesthetic dentistry, we encourage you to come visit our dental practice for an in-person consultation appointment or talk to us on the phone at (514)-933-3368 or (514) 564-4554. We look forward to assisting you in any way we can!
The Bottom Line
Dental veneers are the ideal solution for achieving a bright, uniform, and beautiful smile without having to undergo extensive dental work and dealing with long waiting times. They’re thin tooth-colored shells that cover your teeth, fixing imperfections like discoloration, chips, or gaps.
There are many kinds of dental veneers available, and your dentist will pick the right kind for you based on many factors. This needs to be an informed decision, so don’t hesitate to discuss your expectations with your dentist.
With proper care, dental veneers can last for many years, giving you the confidence to smile like there’s no tomorrow. Whether you’re looking to make a small change in your smile or go for a drastic transformation, dental veneers could be the answer you’ve been searching for.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Veneers
Where can I get same-day veneers in Canada?
At Blanc Dentaire, we offer same-day veneers thanks to our state-of-the-art in-house dental laboratory and the use of advanced veneer technologies like FirstFit. With us, you can rest assured that you’ll get the smile of your dreams in one visit, with veneers that will last you for years to come.
What is the lifespan of dental veneers?
The lifespan of a dental veneer depends on how well you care for it. Porcelain veneers have a longer lifespan than composite veneers, which can last for more than ten years. Composite veneers, on the other hand, can last about five years at the most and need to be repaired or replaced more frequently.
Can you eat normally with veneers?
It is safe to eat with veneers, but you must practice caution when it comes to certain foods and drinks to prevent damage to your veneers. It is best to avoid biting hard foods like carrots, apples, and hard candy. It is recommended to limit your intake of black tea and coffee, red wine, and products containing tobacco, as they may stain your veneers. It is also advisable to reduce alcohol consumption as it can dissolve the adhesive cement used to glue the veneers to your teeth.
Does it hurt when you get veneers?
Following veneer placement, there is no or minimal downtime. You can resume your daily activities after your dentist’s appointment the same day. You might expect slight discomfort or some tooth sensitivity after getting veneers, but that usually resides within a week or two. If it continues longer than that, please visit your dentist.
How long do veneers take to settle?
There is minimal or no recovery time for veneers. It usually takes about an hour for the anesthesia to wear off after you’ve received your veneers. After that, you’re good to go.
How soon can you eat after getting veneers?
You can eat right after veneer placement as long as the anesthesia has worn off.
Are veneers resistant to staining?
Porcelain veneers are more resistant to staining than composite veneers, but they should be cared for to avoid discoloration or stains.
What materials are used for dental veneers?
Veneers are commonly made from porcelain, ceramic, or resin composite materials. While both materials work well, porcelain veneers are known for their superior aesthetics and longevity compared to composite veneers. At Blanc Dentaire, we offer only the best: E-max veneers (ceramic) customizable with porcelain.
What problems can dental veneers fix?
Veneers can fix the following issues:
- Gaps and spaces
- Crooked or uneven teeth
- Shape or size irregularities in teeth (such as smaller-than-average teeth or pointed or unusually shaped teeth)
- Discolored or stained teeth that can’t be fixed with tooth whitening procedures
- Gummy smiles
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Decayed teeth
Where can I find a dentist who specializes in dental veneers in Canada?
Dr. Dan Munteanu is a highly skilled and qualified dentist who provides dental veneers in Canada. His expertise, paired with the state-of-the-art facilities at his practice, Blanc Dentaire, ensures a great experience and excellent treatment outcomes.