Suffering from tooth damage? Want to restore the natural look of teeth while keeping them strong and healthy? Porcelain veneers may be the answer. Dental veneers look just like the original tooth enamel, but are stronger. This can be a great alternative to extracting and replacing teeth that have moderate damage, but still have good roots.
Veneers are appropriate for all the following situations:
- Teeth are discolored and cannot be restored with conventional whitening treatments
- Teeth are worn down, chipped, broken or suffer other superficial surface damage
- Teeth are misaligned or uneven, but orthodontic treatment is impossible or not desired
- Teeth have gaps between them that can’t be closed or remedied with standard braces
What are Veneers? The Process of Veneers Explained
Veneers are a convenient and modern treatment option; the process is pain-free and has very few possible complications. Plus, they’re one of the only ways to make teeth look better than new!
Following an initial consultation, dental veneers are installed during a set of two appointments. One tooth or several can be treated during these appointments, which are spaced apart anywhere from 14 to 21 days.
- During the first appointment, the enamel on the front surfaces of the teeth to be treated is trimmed back. Areas that have existing decay are trimmed more than healthy areas. Once the veneer is placed, the thickness of the tooth will be nearly the same as it was. Existing “white” fillings might also be replaced to ensure a tighter bond.
- During the second appointment, the new veneers are placed. The pause between the two appointments has two purposes: First, to make sure the teeth and mouth are ready for the process, and second, to precisely craft the new veneers in a specialized laboratory. The actual process of placing the veneer usually takes an hour or less.
To make veneers look natural and beautiful requires three very important components: the right lab, the right material and the right dentist. Although patients don’t select which dental laboratory works on their veneers, they should inquire with their dentist about which laboratory they use. The veneer-making process is very technique sensitive procedure. Lab technicians with an advanced designation of Master Technician should be employed to make the veneers. The proper material is also critical and is selected by the dentist. There are a large number of different kinds of porcelains and techniques used to make veneers. Proper material selection is imperative to get the best esthetic result that will also be durable in the long run. Finally, the right dentist is the critical factor. A dentist properly trained in the creating beautiful and functional veneers is key. The dentist will have to make very critical decisions in order to get the most esthetic result. Be sure to ask lots of questions during your consultation to make sure you are making the right selection.
Biscayne Dental & Facial Aesthetics
Dr. Julio Hernandez is a cosmetic dentist with over 25 years of experience. He has a wealth of knowledge in the veneer making process and uses a top-rated dental laboratory to fabricate the veneers. The veneering process is simple and safe enough that only certain patients require anesthesia. However, at Biscayne Dental & Facial Aesthetics, patients who feel anxious about getting veneers can benefit from sedation dentistry.
When installed and maintained properly, veneers should last up to ten years or longer. Veneers should be checked on by a dentist during regular exams at least once a year – and twice is better! Patients should continue brushing and flossing daily.
For veneers in a safe, comfortable and supportive environment, call Biscayne Dental & Facial Aesthetics today at (305) 224-1138.