If you've been considering your options for getting rid of deep stains, your dentist may recommend that you explore veneers. One of the best parts about opting for veneers is the instant improvement once they are installed. Since installing veneers brings about a significant difference in your appearance, you may be wondering what the process entails. Here's a look at what you should know if you opt for veneers for your teeth.

You May Need Several Dental Visits

The process of getting veneers can require a couple of trips to your dentist. You'll need a consultation appointment first, in which your dentist will evaluate your teeth and the condition of your mouth to determine if you're a good fit for veneers. Then, you'll have two appointments for the veneers: one to mold and make them, and then another to apply them.

Your dentist may shorten the process and fit you for the veneers on the same day as the consultation, but since the veneers have to be custom-fit, it's going to require at least two visits to get it done right.

The Process Requires a Delicate Approach

Putting veneers on your teeth requires a delicate touch to do it correctly. The first step will require making sure that they are properly sized. The dentist will place it on your tooth without any adhesive to measure it against your tooth. Then, he or she will trim it to make sure that it's a proper fit.

Once your dentist is confident that each veneer is sized correctly and will fit as intended, it's time to get your teeth ready for the adhesive. This means cleaning and etching the surface of your teeth. The etching process creates a textured, rough finish on the front of your tooth to make it easier for the veneer to stick.

After preparing your teeth, the dentist will apply a special cement adhesive to the surface of your tooth. This will be followed by the veneer, which will be pressed into place. Once the veneers are in place, the dentist will use a special light-emitting tool to speed up the hardening process for the adhesive.

Once everything is in place and the adhesive is hardened, your dentist will clear away any excess cement around the edges. The final step is assessing your bite to be sure that it is natural and that you feel comfortable with it.

Understanding the Healing Process

In the days after the application, your gums may be sore and sensitive. You may also notice that your teeth are more sensitive to temperatures and textures. Avoid biting down on anything hard, and don't chew on ice or similar items. Your dentist will provide you with any specific dietary changes, if necessary, for the days after the treatment.

Having veneers applied to your teeth can give you renewed confidence, especially if your natural teeth are deeply discolored. Additionally, veneers are a great way to fix a slight misalignment without a full correction with braces. Understanding what to expect of the process will eliminate the fear of the unknown and let you go into the decision prepared. Consult resources such as Carpenter Dental, Charles M. Carpenter DMD, and Chas M. Carpenter DMD for more information.