Dental veneers are thin, tooth-colored shells that are attached to the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. They can be used to fix the shape, size, and colour of the teeth to provide a beautiful, natural, long lasting smile.
Made popular by the widespread use of celebrities both young and old, veneers are no longer a consideration of the aging only. Younger adults with cosmetic concerns are also researching veneers to achieve a long-lasting smile.
Some research on veneers can be misleading. It’s important to find a cosmetic dentist who specializes in these types of procedures to help guide you through the process. Dr. Jessie McAllister of McAllister Dentistry has over 12 years of experience in dentistry, and offers a full range of dental treatments at her boutique-style office on Ogilvie Road, including veneers.
Here’s what you need to know, and what you can expect during and after this treatment to determine if getting veneers is right for you, according to Dr. McAllister.
The Five Most Common Myths About Veneers
1) Your teeth will have to be shaved down to little pegs.
False. This is a common misconception made popular by ‘extreme’ videos on social media, and luckily it’s completely false. In fact, veneers are very conservative. The teeth are often extremely minimally prepared and the veneers can be placed right over the enamel of your teeth. It’s quick, easy, and painless, but we still offer our patients a local anaesthetic to make sure they don’t feel anything at all during the procedure. We also provide neck pillows, blankets, and wireless headphones so that you can catch up on all your favourite shows while getting your veneers done.
Before (Top) & After (Bottom), real patient photo.
2) Veneers look fake or unnatural.
False, as long as you choose the right cosmetic dentist. We use hand crafted porcelain materials and work with world renowned dental technicians to create the most natural looking veneers. We also take into consideration your specific wants and needs. You will always be involved in the decision making process when we are creating your new smile design. We can help you achieve a more youthful, broader, straighter, and whiter smile. The goal is for the final results to look like your smile, but better!
3) Veneers don’t last very long and will need to be replaced often.
False. If you care for your veneers properly they will hold up very well over time. You still need to brush and floss them, just like your regular teeth, and we often recommend wearing a nightguard to protect your investment.
4) Veneers will chip and stain.
False. If they are done properly and carefully bonded into place, they will be very strong and stain resistant. It’s important to note that you still need to care for your veneers and visit your dentist regularly for routine checkups and cleanings.
5) Veneers are too expensive.
False. Many patients are worried about the cost of veneers but there are always options to fit within your budget. For example, composite bonding or composite veneers can be half the price of regular veneers. It’s a good alternative and can still have a very dramatic impact on your smile. However, if you choose to invest porcelain veneers, they will definitely be the most aesthetic and longest lasting. We also offer payment plans to ensure we can work within your budget and give you the smile of your dreams.
If you have any further questions about dental veneers, you can book a complimentary consultation with our team of dental experts in Ottawa. We can’t wait to help you love your smile!
