Veneer: A Popular Cosmetic Dentistry Choice
Veneer has become popular in cosmetic dentistry today. One of the best ways to enhance your smile is with veneer teeth. It involves adding thin porcelain laminates to your teeth.
It is now available to everyone, not just celebrities. It’s growing in popularity and becoming a common way for anyone to get a better smile. Know the process well to eliminate fears and feel confident about approaching it. With a bright smile from veneers, each step in the journey boosts self-esteem.
The Pre-Procedure Consultation
To get a veneer, start with a consultation with a dentist. You can discuss your needs, dental goals, and any concerns at this meeting. During the meeting, the dentist examines your mouth to see if you are fit for veneers. They might also recommend an X-ray or impression for a thorough evaluation.
Selecting the Right Shade
Once you’re deemed a suitable candidate, the next step revolves around customization. The color of your veneers requires thorough consideration. You and your dentist will work together to find the best shade that matches your other teeth. This step ensures a natural-looking smile post-procedure.
Preparation of Your Teeth
Veneer prep makes slight changes to your tooth structure. The dentist numbs the area and removes about half a millimeter of enamel. Reshaping your tooth is important to ensure the veneer fits securely and looks good.
Taking The Impression
Post-preparation, the dentist takes an impression of your teeth. The model goes to a dental lab to customize the veneer for a perfect fit on your teeth. Before getting the veneer from the lab, the duration can be one to two weeks. During this time, dentists often apply temporary veneers.
Fitting the Veneer
Once your veneer is ready to be fitted, your dentist places it onto your tooth to examine its fit and color. To achieve the right fit, the dentist trims it as needed and adjusts the color by placing and removing it. This process may seem repetitive, but it’s necessary for a perfect fit and appearance.
Adhere the Veneer
Your dentist will clean, polish, and etch your tooth to ensure the veneer fits perfectly. An etching process roughens the tooth to provide a firm bonding surface. They apply a unique adhesive or cement to the veneer and position it onto your tooth. A special light quickly hardens the adhesive, securing the veneer onto your tooth.
Post-procedure Assessment and Care
- Veneer Longevity: Veneers are durable, but their lifespan depends on various factors. Your habits, oral hygiene, and diet can impact the lifespan of porcelain laminates. Many veneers can last a good 10 to 15 years with proper care.
- Reversibility of the Procedure: The procedure is often irreversible. Enamel is removed to fit the veneer. After removing the enamel, it cannot regrow, so a permanent veneer or cover is necessary. This makes pre-procedure understanding essential.
- Possibility of Sensitivity: After the procedure, your veneer-fitted teeth may be sensitive due to enamel removal. However, sensitivity is mainly subjective and varies from person to person. Some people might not feel any sensitivity after their procedure. It is recommended to discuss possible post-procedure effects with your dentist beforehand.
Book an Appointment
If you would like to book an appointment with one of our dentists and teams at Grand Family Dentistry, we invite you to contact us in Mandeville, Louisiana. We are here to help with all your dental veneer needs!