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Dental laminates and dental veneers are two common procedures done to improve the overall appearances of someone's smile. From color to shape and size, both options ultimately provide non-invasive treatments to unpleasant smiles. But what is the difference between the two?
Dental veneers are thin, tooth-colored shells placed on the surface of the teeth to improve appearance, giving patients a better-looking smile. The procedure used to place veneers is minimally invasive and requires a small amount of enamel be removed for them to fit.
Dental laminates have the same function as veneers and are sometimes the two terms are used interchangeably. Laminates differ in the sense that they are much thinner and require less amount of enamel to be removed for them to be placed.
Dental veneers may be right for you if you are looking for an alternative to crowns and caps. Veneers can help you if you have gaps between your teeth or teeth that are broken, chipped, irregularly shaped or misaligned. To find out more about whether dental veneers are right for you, contact our Bernal Dental office to schedule a consultation.
Knowing the difference between dental laminates and dental veneers matters because it can help a patient decide which option is best for their teeth and smile needs. For instance, someone with crooked teeth or who has gaps are much better off getting veneers which are more flexible and stabler than dental laminates. However, if the issue is discoloration or minor chips, laminates are a great option because they are lightweight and do not require much enamel removal.
Before dental veneers can be placed on the teeth, the surface of the teeth must be prepared for bonding. After administering a local anesthetic, your dentist will buff away approximately half a millimeter from the surface of the teeth. You’ll then bite into a mold that will be used to form your veneers in a dental lab. When the veneers are ready, you’ll be asked to return to have them fitted, bonded and adjusted for shape and color.
There is no special care required for dental veneers, and normal brushing and flossing can be resumed immediately. Because veneers are usually placed over the course of two appointments, it is normal to experience some sensitivity between the first and second visit when the teeth have been reduced in preparation for bonding.