Studies have shown that as many as half of Americans are insecure about smiling or laughing because they are self-conscious about their teeth. Fortunately, dental technology has made it easier than ever to correct less than perfect teeth. Cosmetic treatments such as dental veneers can give you a smile you’ll be proud to show off every day. But what exactly are dental veneers? Read on for everything you need to know.
Veneers: Natural Looking Cosmetic Dental Treatment
Dental veneers are essentially shells or very thin coverings for your existing teeth. Made out of porcelain or composite, these shells are bonded to the surface of your existing teeth. They look like your natural teeth, only better! Dental veneers can correct a variety of concerns you have including:
- Chipped teeth
- Discolored teeth
- Small teeth
- Misshapen teeth
- Small gaps in teeth
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are more common than composite veneers. The porcelain material results in a very natural look. Porcelain veneers are stain-resistant and very durable. They often last 10-20 years or more, with excellent care.
What is the Process for Getting Porcelain Dental Veneers?
If you decide to upgrade your smile with porcelain veneers, the process is typically painless.
Dr. Roisman uses a highly trained specialty dental lab that specializes in esthetic restorations for his patient’s veneers. Before even starting the case- he and the technician, working for a series of photos and videos of your mouth, as well a 3D rendering, plan out the case in detail. You would then come in for an esthetic review to approve the design before the first appointment. During that appointment, Dr. Roisman will remove a very thin top layer of tooth enamel. This creates the space for the veneer to be affixed to each tooth.
A digital 3d scan is then taken, which will be used to make your veneers. Dr. Roisman will then make you temporary veneers based on the design that was decided upon. Your digital scans of the prepared teeth will then be transmitted to the lab for the creation of your veneers. You will have temporary veneers, based on the design decided upon at your esthetic consult visit, put on until your permanent veneers come in. While you have these temporary restorations, you can decide on any changes you want, which will then be incorporated into the final restoration. Once your custom veneers are ready, you’ll return to the dentist to remove the temporary coverings and place your new veneers. (The final veneers will only be placed, once you have given your approval at the try-in). You’ll leave your appointment with a beautiful smile you will be eager to show off.
Am I a Candidate for Veneers?
Many people are excellent candidates for dental veneers. However, some conditions will need to be corrected before getting veneers. If you have gum disease, it will need to be treated before you will be approved for veneers. If you have tooth decay (cavities) they should also be treated before you get veneers. If you grind your teeth at night, you may not be eligible for veneers. Although veneers are durable, excessive tooth grinding can splinter a veneer or cause it to come completely off. Finally, your dentist will need to ensure that you have enough enamel to be able to safely remove a thin layer so that the veneer can be placed.
Dental veneers are effective at improving your smile. They may also last a long time. However, you should note that once you have veneers, you will need them forever. Be sure to discuss any concerns or questions you have with your dentist.
Dental Veneers in Westport, CT
Dr. Mrak S. Roisman provides complete cosmetic dentistry treatments in Westport, CT. To learn more about dental veneers to improve your smile contact us today at 203-227-6338