Veneers are thin tooth colored shells that are designed to be attached to the front of teeth. Your cosmetic dentist will explain the veneers procedure, and how it will fit with your budgetary and timeline needs.
Veneers are Versatile
Misshapen, short, or elongated teeth – Veneers are ideal to make your teeth appear symmetrical by evening out one or more teeth that don’t blend in with surrounding teeth.
Dental stain – Deeply stained or discolored teeth may not respond to attempts to clean or whiten them. Porcelain veneers are ideal as they can treat one or multiple teeth.
Gaps between teeth – While some patients may embrace the openings between teeth, for those patients who do not, veneers can appear to close those gaps very quickly.
Chipped teeth – A porcelain veneer can make a chipped tooth appear whole again.
Why porcelain?
Porcelain is the ideal material for veneers for several reasons:
Appearance – Porcelain is semi translucent so treated teeth appear as natural as biological teeth.
Color – Porcelain can be precisely color matched to biological teeth so treated teeth will blend naturally with neighboring teeth.
Durable – Porcelain veneers actually will strengthen teeth they cover. Their durability allows them to last for many years. Care must be taken to keep from chipping or breaking veneers – they are generally not repairable; they will require replacement if broken or dislodged.
Stain resistant – Porcelain will naturally resist stain from the foods, beverages, and lifestyle habits that can discolor natural teeth. And since porcelain will not stain, it also will not be affected by teeth whitening products.
The Veneers Process
When you consult with your cosmetic dentist, you will be advised that veneers are a minimally invasive and permanent cosmetic option that can be completed in weeks.
Teeth that are to be treated with veneers are prepared by removing a very thin amount of enamel; impressions are taken for the dental lab to fabricate the veneers. Temporary veneers are provided until permanent restorations can be placed.
Veneers will be tried in for fit and appearance; adjustments can be made at chairside if needed. The surface of teeth will be roughened to allow for better adherence. The veneers will be cemented in place; a curing light will be applied to hasten drying; and your smile makeover is completed.
To learn more about veneers or to schedule a consultation, contact the office of Dr. Buchanan today.
