Cosmetic dentistry isn’t just about whitening your teeth. It is a practice that’s been around for centuries.
Ancient Egyptians used gold to make dental crowns and bridges. In the middle ages, they used cadaver teeth as implants. The invention of the bristle toothbrush happened in the 1400s with animal hair.
This eventually led to the nylon toothbrush invented by Dupont de Nemours in 1938. Throughout time we’ve understood the importance of cosmetic dentistry. It gives people their self-confidence back and changes their lives for the better.
Not feeling confident in your smile will affect all other aspects of your life. Dental laminates are a simple solution that could help. You should feel free to laugh and smile with friends and family regularly.
If you don’t feel confident in your smile, this solution will change your life for the better. Want to learn more about it? Read on to discover more.
We’ll talk about why laminates get confused with veneers. We’ll also provide an overview of the benefits they provide. Some common questions surrounding them get answered.
You’ll understand everything there is to know so you will make the best choice for your future smile.
What Exactly Are Dental Laminates?
Dental laminates are similar to veneers. They consist of a thin, custom material placed on the surface of a tooth or teeth to enhance the appearance. The laminate procedure is minimally invasive for the patient and is a great way to provide a great smile.
Dental laminates get confused with dental veneers because they solve the same problem. The main difference comes when you look at exactly what gets placed on the teeth.
Laminates are a thinner material. The amount of enamel removed to place them is much less than the process to place a veneer. With veneers, they are tooth-colored shells that get placed on the surface of the teeth.
To recap: a laminate is a thin material placed on an existing tooth. Veneers are tooth-color shells placed around the teeth. They both restore provide restoration for damaged teeth in different ways.
The Main Benefits of Laminates
Transforming your smile is easier than you think. The minute the procedure is complete, you’ll experience the benefits of laminates. We’ll talk about some of those benefits to help you decide if they are right for you.
They Fix Broken and Worn Teeth
Damaged teeth are bad for your oral health and your self-confidence. If you have a worn-down or broken tooth, you know this all too well. Instead of drilling or filling a tooth, a laminate gets applied.
Depending on your specific situation, they will fit on multiple teeth or a single tooth. You won’t worry about smiling in pictures the moment you have this procedure done.
Less Damaging to the Teeth Than Veneers
With veneers, a big part of the tooth or teeth gets filed down. Laminates only rub off a small portion of enamel to work. This means you keep a majority of your existing tooth.
Improvement in Discoloration
Some stains on the teeth can’t get removed with a whitening treatment. There are stains from prescription drugs, root canals, and fluoride. Laminate will assist with the problem.
A lighter color laminate is possible. When the lighter color gets applied on top of the natural teeth, your teeth become whiter. This process fixes stubborn discoloration.
They Close Gaps in Your Teeth
Gaps in teeth are common. The downside is that these gaps will eventually cause the jawbone to deteriorate. It also enables teeth to shift into unnatural positions.
A dental laminate is a quick and easy solution to the problem. It also prevents more advanced issues like jaw deterioration from happening.
The Two Types of Laminate Material
Composite resin laminates are a less expensive option. It is a plastic substance that’s reinforced with ceramic particles. They last between five and seven years before replacement.
Porcelain laminate material has a natural look to them. They last between 10 and 20 years before replacement and are more resistant to stains.
The deciding factor depends on your situation. Talk with our dentists to help yourself make the right choice for you.
How Will You Know if Laminates Are a Good Choice?
You have questions about exactly what laminates will do for you. Let’s dive into common questions, so you know exactly what to expect.
1. How Long Will My Appointment for Laminates Be?
It is common for the laminates to take two appointments. The first appointment is where the teeth get shaped so they can receive laminates. The second appointment is where the laminates get placed.
2. Does the Procedure Hurt?
We do everything possible to ensure you don’t feel any pain. We use a local anesthetic during the procedure. You might feel some pressure, but the pain won’t be an issue.
3. How Long Will the Laminates Last?
Laminate dental procedures are permanent. As a result, they will last up to 15 years. You should consider this when you are deciding whether you want them or not.
4. How Do I Take Care of Them Once They’re Installed?
Taking care of laminates is easy; all you have to do is practice good hygiene. This involves brushing and flossing at least twice daily.
5. How Much Will the Laminates Cost?
The cost of the laminates will vary. Don’t put off this treatment because of the cost. You deserve the smile you want.
For a list of the insurance we accept, click here. Call to schedule an appointment to learn more about your financial options.
Your Road to Your Perfect Smile
Getting the smile you’ve always wanted isn’t difficult. The solution is easier than you think. Dental laminates are a noninvasive method to improve your smile.
The professional dentists at Newbury Dental Group provide everything you need. Contact us today, and we’ll schedule an appointment so you can get started.
If you’re interested in learning more about how you can take hold of your dental health, check out our blog posts. The posts discuss a variety of topics. Some include why our teeth change color and best practices for healthy teeth.