Veneers
Just a subtle change in the shade, shape or alignment of your teeth can instill a sense of confidence in your smile.
One way of achieving that is with dental veneers. The benefits and advantages of veneers include:
- Only a small amount of natural tooth structure (if any) is removed during the procedure
- A healthy, natural look is achieved with little or no discomfort
- Veneers are strong, durable and color-stable
- Veneers often are less expensive than alternative procedures
Porcelain Veneers
We offer two tooth veneers procedures that correct tooth discoloration by removing the brown and yellow staining. We can assist you in choosing the right procedure for you.
Composite veneers usually are performed in one visit. The procedure involves applying a bond and enamel directly to the tooth's surface.
Porcelain veneers are an ultra-thin porcelain material. These veneers usually require two visits. During the first visit, we take an impression of your tooth and send it to a dental laboratory, which creates the final tooth restoration piece. On the second visit, we treat your tooth with a mild conditioning solution. Before the veneer is placed, we apply a tooth-colored liquid bonding material, which helps the veneer adhere to your natural teeth.
Lumineers are a new type of porcelain veneers that are roughly the thickness of a contact lens. Made of Cerinate porcelain, they often do not require altering tooth structure.
Veneers are not suitable for every patient, but they provide a cosmetic alternative for numerous dental maladies affecting the front teeth, including:
- Spaces between teeth
- Correcting crooked or uneven teeth
- Restoring teeth that are chipped or broken
- Covering stained or discolored teeth
Veneers- the difference between fillings and crowns
A composite resin filling is used when just a small portion of tooth structure needs to be repaired or replaced. A full crown is needed when a tooth has had root canal treatment or when a substantial amount of the entire tooth structure has been lost. A porcelain veneer can be used when a portion of the tooth’s front surface needs cosmetic improvement.
What to expect from your veneers
Depending on how well you care for them, veneers can last for years. Veneers are stronger than simple bonding, which makes them more resistant to stains and chipping. Maintaining regular oral hygiene for routine cleaning and exams is important. Avoid bad habits such as biting nails or chewing ice. Doing so will help extend the life and look of your veneers.
A final thought
The decision to improve your smile with porcelain veneers is a personal one. Take a moment to evaluate the appearance of your teeth. If you're not entirely pleased with your smile, ask us about options available to you in creating a smile you can be proud of. We are excited to show you how veneers or other cosmetic and restorative dentistry techniques fit into your total oral health program.