Dental veneers are ideal for those who want to transform their smile. They can cover flaws on the teeth and make them more cosmetically appealing. A veneer is a thin shell made from either composite or porcelain material and placed over the tooth to change its color, shape, or size.
For patients thinking of getting dental veneers, the following is important information to know.
Patients can choose veneers to correct structural issues with their teeth, such as chips, cracks, or fractures, and protect the enamel from additional damage. Veneers are also options for those who need to change their teeth's shape, length, or size to make their smile look more uniform. It is also an option for those who have tried teeth whitening unsuccessfully. If the enamel has worn down and is causing teeth sensitivity, placing veneers over the teeth can be a permanent solution.
The dentist can choose between composite or porcelain when fabricating dental veneers. The two options are highly durable and can last for several years. It is possible to customize them to be the same color as the natural tooth. The material choice often boils down to the patient's preferences and the affected tooth.
The materials used for producing veneers are color-matched so they blend seamlessly with the rest of the natural teeth. Therefore, the dentist can use veneers to cover a tooth whose enamel is compromised and discolored. It will be hard to tell them apart among all the teeth. Dental cleaning is usually required before veneer placement.
The dentist will design the veneers based on the patient's specific needs, which means the process is not the same for everyone. The dentist can make veneers thicker if the tooth is slightly cracked and needs protection. When lengthening a short or chipped tooth, the veneer is made longer.
Getting veneers can take between two to three dental appointments, based on the patient's needs. On the first visit, the dentist will assess the tooth and prepare it by removing a thin enamel layer. They will then take impressions that will be sent to the dental lab for custom-made veneers. The next appointment will be to place the veneers over the teeth.
After getting veneers, patients do not have to follow a special maintenance routine. They can continue to care for their teeth as usual: brush and floss regularly, while keeping up with routine dental appointments.
In most cases, with adequate care, dental veneers can last between 15 to 20 years without needing repair or replacement. The key is to follow the dentist's oral care instructions. If you want more information about the procedure, visit the general dentist. They will be happy to answer your questions and to help you get your dream smile.
Request an appointment here: https://www.hemingwaydds.com or call Julie A. Hemingway, D.D.S. at (805) 409-2358 for an appointment in our Santa Barbara office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Veneers and Dental Laminates in Santa Barbara, CA.
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