If you have front teeth that are permanently stained because of antibiotics or other medications you took when you were young, you're probably frustrated that teeth whitening products don't work for you. Unfortunately, over-the-counter products or even dentist treatments won't work on teeth that are discolored because they are damaged somehow. However, a cosmetic dentist has a few ways to help. One of those options is to have dental veneers applied. Here is some information about how they work.

What They Are

Dental veneers are thin coverings for your teeth that are cemented to your real teeth. They completely cover your discolored teeth to give them new color and shape too if needed. You can have one veneer applied or several. They are made from porcelain or resin. Porcelain veneers cost more, but they tend to look more natural. Porcelain has the ability to reflect light just like normal tooth enamel. Resin doesn't have this quality so it has a more artificial appearance that might be noticeable on a front tooth, especially if a resin veneer is placed beside teeth with healthy enamel. Also, the resin tends to stain easier than porcelain, so it may be more difficult to keep white and give you the bright smile you seek.

How Veneers Are Applied

A thin layer of your tooth enamel has to be removed to make room for the veneer. You may not even need to have an anesthetic for this procedure unless you have sensitive teeth or are uneasy about undergoing the work without your teeth being numb. Once the top layer of enamel is removed, the dentist makes a mold of your mouth so the veneer can be custom made. You'll get to select the shade of brightness you want for your veneers, so you'll want to match the color to your other teeth if you're only having one tooth covered. A veneer can also be used to lengthen your tooth and change its shape somewhat if it is needed.

You'll need two dentist appointments to complete the process of getting veneers. The first visit is when the dentist removes the top layer of enamel and makes the mold of your mouth. The second visit is when the veneers are applied. This is done by roughening up the enamel so the adhesive sticks better and then attaching a veneer to a tooth with dental cement. Your dentist then cures the cement with a laser light to create a strong bond so the veneer won't come off when you chew or bite into food.

Dental veneers can really improve the appearance of your smile. Tooth discoloration is hidden so you can finally have the white teeth you want. Although the process of having veneers applied causes mild damage to your teeth, it is far less damaging than having crowns put on, and it's much less expensive too.

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