Dental veneers are thin porcelain shells that are custom designed to hide teeth to create a specific look or cover imperfections. As dental veneers do not stain and are durable, they tend to be very common among those who are seeking to restore or improve their smiles, specially if their natural teeth are discolored or stained, chipped, worn, crowded, misshapen, gapped, or too large or too small.
If you are interested in getting dental veneers, you may need between two and three trips to your dentist. You will begin with a consultation, during which you and your dentist will determine whether you are a candidate for dental veneers. You may have a single dental veneer on a single tooth, or you may have veneers placed on all your teeth. At your consultation, you will have the opportunity to discuss your goals and preferences, and your dentist will discuss the procedure itself and its limitations. If you together determine that porcelain veneers are right for you, your dentist may take dental impressions at this visit, as well as dental X-rays.
Your teeth will also need to be prepared for your new dental veneers. A small amount of dental enamel will be removed from the surface of your teeth to allow for placement of the dental veneers. Your dentist will use an anesthetic so that you will be comfortable throughout this process, and after the enamel has been removed, he or she will place temporary dental veneers so that you will not be bothered by sensitivity until your permanent dental veneers are completed. If you did not have dental X-rays and impressions taken at your first dental visit, they will be taken at this visit.
At your final dental visit, your dentist will check your permanent dental veneers for fit and color. In some conditions, you may opt for teeth whitening treatments ahead of time, or your dentist may be able to change the color of your results through the color of the bonding material used. If the fit and color are right, your dentist will apply the dental veneers to your teeth with a special cement, which is cured using a special light. Your bite will be evaluated, and final adjustments will be made, if necessary. You may need a final checkup to make sure your teeth and gums are adjusting well to your new veneers.
Although dental veneers are very durable, proper care can help them last longer and look better. Keep your beautiful new smile longer by brushing at least two times every day and flossing carefully once a day. Visit your dentist two times a year to ensure good dental health and catch signs of dental disease at the earliest so that they can be treated promptly.
Visit WilshireDentalCare.com for more information. Our Los Angeles dental veneers expert can determine if this treatment can help you improve your smile.