No matter the filter, location, outfit or influencer posting, there is one thing all selfies on Instagram have in common — gorgeous, picture-perfect smiles. Daily social media consumers and active users have actively sought out ways of looking perfect both on and off the camera and many found that the upkeep and look of their teeth was as important as ensuring clear and glowy skin. Haute Beauty caught up with renowned cosmetic dentist, Dr. Katherine Roman who answers the most frequently asked questions pertaining to veneers including why a patient should consider getting them and how to ensure the upkeep is being done properly.

Why should a patient consider getting veneers?

Veneers can be used to correct a wide range of dental issues, such as: teeth with large restorations, stained, fractured or with discrepancies of shape. Nowadays the tendency in patient to do it is being high. Influences and celebrities have a big influence on the demand to have a perfect smiles. 

What factors should be taken into account regarding a patient’s dental health/history when considering veneers?

Some of the factors to be considered depends on people face. Every smile it’s different and should be according to esthetic concepts where facial esthetics are related to dental composition. For example, the lips should be evaluated according to width, fullness, and symmetry. Wide lips make for a wide smile and each lip should be evaluated separately. Other factors include previous large restorations, caries, teeth position and bite.

Is there a difference in getting veneers through general dentist vs cosmetic dentist?

There is a difference to have these done when a dentist is oriented to cosmetics, these professionals are most meticulous and focus to give to patient the most natural look to a new smile. Not all dental labs work the porcelain the same, it’s like the purse made in a factory versus the purse that’s is done by hand.

How to care for veneers?

The care of veneers includes a periodic visit to the dentist, brushing with a non-abrasive toothpaste, flossing at least once a day to remove food particles around the area and rinsing with an antiseptic mouth wash.