Improve Your Smile With Dental Veneers

Many adults spend years hiding their smiles due to chipped, discolored, cracked, crooked, or otherwise flawed teeth. With advances made in cosmetic dentistry over the last several years, drastically improving an imperfect smile is a realistic option for many. Dental veneers—sometimes referred to as porcelain veneers—are thin, custom-made shells that cover the front surface of the teeth. The result is teeth that are changed in color, shape, or size—and a patient who’s no longer afraid to show their smile to the world.

Am I a candidate for veneers?

Dental veneers are used to correct a number of teeth concerns, including:

• Discoloration. Whether your teeth are discolored due to a root canal treatment, medication stains, excessive fluoride, tobacco use, or other causes, porcelain veneers are an excellent fix.
• Undesired spacing. If the spacing of your teeth has always made you feel self-conscious, veneers might be a good option for you.
• Chipped or broken teeth. If you have several teeth that are chipped or broken, veneers might be a more effective option than repairing individual teeth.
• Worn-down teeth. Years of clenching, grinding, or exposure to acidic foods and drinks can wear down teeth. Veneers can restore them to their original appearance.
• Irregularly shaped teeth. If your teeth are uneven or irregularly shaped with craters or bulges, veneers may be a good treatment option.

What can I expect the dental veneer process to be like?

Getting dental veneers typically requires multiple appointments. The process includes:

• Consultation. Your dentist will evaluate your teeth and discuss your goals. X-rays may be taken to determine if veneers are the best option.
• Preparation. A small amount of enamel (about 0.5 mm) is removed from the tooth surface. Impressions are taken and sent to a lab where the veneers are custom-made, a process that typically takes one to two weeks. Temporary veneers may be placed in the meantime.
• Bonding. Once the veneers are ready, your dentist will place them on your teeth to check for fit and color. Adjustments may be made before they are permanently bonded with special cement and hardened with a curing light.
• Follow-up. A follow-up visit within a couple of weeks ensures the veneers are properly bonded, and your gums are responding well.

Are you ready to stop hiding your smile from the world? Contact us today to learn more about dental veneers and our other cosmetic dentistry options!

Meet the Author

Dr. Samantha Kothapalli

General Dentist

Dr. Sam provides personalized dental care with a focus on prevention, patient education, and modern, comfortable treatment.

Meet Dr. Sam

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