Dental veneers are ideal for correcting oral conditions such as crooked and misshapen teeth, tooth discoloration, and gaps between teeth.. Using the latest technology and decades of collective expertise, Circle Drive Dental in Rochester can integrate veneers that transform your smile. But are they right for you? Let’s find out.

Birthed in Hollywood to give movie stars “perfect teeth”, dental veneers are thin porcelain sheets bonded to the front of a patient’s top and bottom teeth. Minimal prep work is required – in most cases, only a small amount of tooth enamel is removed to ensure the veneer looks natural and fits the tooth/teeth. The patient then wears a temporary set of veneers for about two weeks until the permanent veneers are ready.

People who grind their teeth heavily may not be good candidates for veneers. This is because regular grinding could eventually cause the veneer to dislodge. If you’re interested in veneers but are a teeth-grinder, contact our local dentist for a consultation. Other patients who might want to avoid dental veneers are those who have untreated oral health issues, i.e. a toothache or cavity. You’ll want to address these things prior to having veneers placed on your teeth.

Assuming there’s nothing preventing you from getting dental veneers, you’re likely wondering if any pain is involved during the “installation” process or the act of wearing veneers. The answer little to no pain, although the dentist will likely administer a local anesthetic to ward off any discomfort associated with the enamel reduction mentioned earlier. This reduction is quite small (only 1/3 of a millimeter), and doesn’t come near the tooth’s nerve or root. And while you may experience post-procedure swelling or sensitivity, aspirin will easily mitigate the effects.

As with most oral procedures, the longevity of dental veneers depends a lot on the patient. Occlusion (the “bite” or “match” between the upper and lower teeth) is an important criteria, and so too are grinding habits. Consistent care for the veneers also contributes to their longevity. Generally speaking, a set of dental veneers should last 10 - 15+ years assuming regular care, minimal teeth grinding, and relatively normal occlusion.

As mentioned above, consistent cleaning is vital to the appearance and lifespan of a set of dental veneers. For our patients with veneers, we recommend a combination of a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive toothpaste. Note that toothpastes with whitening additives are classified as abrasive, and thus should be avoided. Certain non-whitening toothpastes are better than others for cleaning porcelain restorations - the Rembrandt line is notable. Also, when you visit Circle Drive Dental for your regular cleaning, be sure to remind the hygienist that you have veneers. This way, only certain instruments will be used to clean your teeth, while others (i.e. the scaler) will remain on the tray.

Whether you’re seeking general dentistry or a cosmetic dentist serving St. Paul, Circle Drive Dental offers the utmost professionalism and expertise. Contact us today regarding dental veneers, crowns, fillings, and all other oral care needs.