Dental veneers
What is a veneer?
A veneer is a layer of material placed over a tooth, used to improve the aesthetics and/or to protect the tooth. The materials used can vary from porcelain to lithium disilicate depending on the situation.
Veneers are different from crowns in that they cover only the front of the tooth, whereas a crown would cover a tooth in 360 degrees.
Why have veneers?
Veneers are an excellent option for anyone who wants to improve their smile, but does not wish to take the time moving the teeth through orthodontic appliances. Veneers are also a great option for patients who are not happy with the shapes or shade of their teeth.
When correctly utilized, veneers can transform a smile and change lives!
How long before I receive my veneers?
To receive veneers typically takes three or more appointments. The first appointment will be to evaluate your smile, and to take diagnostic impressions to form study models so that your dentist or lab technician can create your ideal smile on a wax-up model. The study models may also be used to form custom bleaching trays to be used in preparation of your veneers.
The second appointment is to discuss with you the proposed treatment and if treatment is accepted, to begin treatment. Veneers require minimal preparation on the facial surfaces of the teeth being treated.
After preparations are complete, impressions will be taken for the lab. Your dentist will then place temporaries to protect the tooth until we are ready to deliver your final veneers. Due to the fragile nature of these temporaries, it is best to avoid eating hard and sticky food during this time.
The third or fourth appointment we will deliver your veneers and adjust them accordingly for your bite. Because veneers are strictly chemically bonded to your tooth, a specific bonding procedure is required. Bonding veneers takes time to seat, adjust, and clean the veneers.
The delivery appointment may be your longest appointment, but you will not regret it. All good things take time, and veneers are no exception. Don’t wait, schedule your consult today!
