Enhance Smiles and Increase Confidence with Veneers

Veneers: Enhance Smiles and Increase Confidence
General dentists are able to perform a variety of cosmetic procedures to improve patients' smiles. These procedures range from subtle changes to major repairs, fixing flaws such as discolored, chipped, misshapen or missing teeth. Many patients are discovering the benefits of dental veneers.

A veneer is a thin shell of porcelain or plastic that is cemented/bonded over the front (visible) part of the tooth as opposed to a crown, which covers the entire tooth. Veneers is a simple and comfortable procedure that only takes a few visits with the dentist. This procedure requires little or no anesthesia, and can be the ideal choice for improving the appearance of the front teeth. Veneers are placed to mask discolorations, to brighten teeth, and to improve a smile.

Veneers are a popular treatment option for several reasons and are a great alternative to crowns in many situations. Veneers provide a much more conservative approach to changing a tooth's color, size, or shape. They generally are placed on upper front teeth that are severely discolored, poorly shaped or slightly crooked. Veneers may be used to lighten front teeth that are naturally yellow or have a gray cast and cannot be whitened by bleaching. Veneers are also used to correct chipped or worn teeth and may be used to correct teeth with uneven spaces or a diastema (a large, noticeable gap between the upper front teeth). Generally, veneers will last for many years and the technique has shown remarkable longevity when properly performed.

The two types of veneers are: ceramic veneers (also called laminates) and resin-based composite veneers.
Ceramic Veneers: Ceramic veneers (laminates) are extremely thin shells made of a strong and durable dental ceramic. The dentist removes a small amount of enamel from the front and sides of the tooth. This makes room for the veneer and prevents the restored tooth from feeling or looking bulky and unnatural. Next, the dentist makes an impression of the prepared teeth so that the shape of the preparations and surrounding teeth can be replicated in the dental laboratory. The dentist also looks for the shade that will best match or blend with the other teeth. The impressions are sent to a dental laboratory that makes the ceramic veneers to fit your individual teeth, which can take several days. At the next visit, the dentist places the veneers on the teeth to check the fit and shape. After any adjustments, the teeth are cleaned and the ceramic veneers are bonded to the teeth with dental cement. Additional adjustments may be done at later appointments.
Resin-based Composite Veneers: Resin-based composite veneers typically are placed in one appointment. After the tooth is prepared or reshaped, the dentist carefully bonds and sculpts the composite material in a color that matches your other teeth. A special light is used to harden the composite. The veneer is smoothed and polished to look like a natural tooth.

Considerations for Choosing Veneers
Teeth must be healthy and free of decay and active periodontal disease before being able to do a veneers treatment. Veneers typically require less removal of tooth enamel than do crowns. However, the process is not reversible once the enamel is removed. Patients who clench or grind their teeth are not good candidates for veneers, because the thin veneers may chip, break or peel. Biting your fingernails and chewing hard objects (ice or pencils) is also not recommended. Like any dental restoration treatment, veneers can be dislodged over time and with wear. If that happens, new ones may be required. Be sure to discuss your expectations and treatment options in detail with your dentist. No special maintenance is required other than practicing good oral hygiene daily. Visit your dentist regularly to maintain healthy teeth and brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth with floss or interdental cleaner.

Veneers are reasonable duplicates of natural teeth, not perfect replacements. It is not uncommon to see slight variations in the color of porcelain veneers upon close inspection, as this occurs even in natural teeth. Nevertheless, this procedure can greatly enhance your smile, and can heighten inner satisfaction and self-esteem. Read all about Veneers and Laminates.

For more about Porcelain Veneers and Laminates treatments in New York call R+R Dental at (516) 544-0823 or schedule a veneers appointment online at www.randrdental.com.