Ask a Cosmetic Dentist: What Are Veneers

Ask a Cosmetic Dentist: What Are Veneers from Farmington Family Dentistry in Farmington, NMWhen a person wants to improve the color or overall appearance of their teeth, a cosmetic dentist can provide numerous treatment options. One popular solution is enhancing the smile with dental veneers. These thin coverings are designed to fit over existing teeth to create a whiter, more symmetrical look. Patients with a variety of cosmetic dental issues can utilize this treatment option for an improved appearance.

Candidates for veneers

Dental veneers are mounted to the front of existing teeth and are a treatment designed to last for many years. Therefore, patients should be in good oral health without excessive decay, serious gum disease, or other major dental issues. While very durable, veneers are typically made from either porcelain or ceramic, which can chip or crack under excessive or prolonged pressure. Patients who suffer from bruxism or habitually clench or grind their teeth should not receive veneers.

There are many cosmetic issues that can be improved with veneers, including:

  • Discoloration that will not respond to whitening treatments
  • Irregularly shaped or sized teeth
  • Gaps between teeth
  • Teeth that are chipped or worn down

After treatment, teeth have a whiter appearance and a shape or size that is more appropriate for the patient's overall smile. In addition, the material has a natural look and is highly resistant to future staining. With proper home care and regular dental cleanings, patients can enjoy veneers for decades.

The dental veneers procedure

Once it has been determined that a person is a good candidate for veneers, a series of three or more appointments is generally scheduled for the entire treatment process.

Preliminary appointments

At the first appointment, patients may be evaluated with a simple exam and X-rays to rule out any preexisting dental conditions. Impressions of the entire mouth may also be taken at this time. At the next visit, a cosmetic dentist prepares for application by reshaping the enamel on the existing affected teeth. Once the teeth are properly shaped, molds of the affected teeth are taken and sent to a lab where the veneers are created.

It typically takes two to four weeks for veneer coverings to be created and shipped to the dentist for application. During this time, temporary coverings or veneers may be placed until the permanent counterparts are ready. At the final appointment, the surface of the tooth is prepped for bonding.

Application

The dentist polishes the tooth and creates a rough surface texture to ensure a secure fit. The veneer may also be reshaped during this time. Once all components are ready, a shaded cement is used to attach the veneer to the tooth. Dental lights are utilized to help the cement cure rapidly for an instant bond. Finally, the attached veneers are polished and adjusted for a comfortable fit and natural look.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
Cosmetic Dentist Veneers in Farmington, NM

Conclusion

When a patient turns to a cosmetic dentist for smile enhancement, veneers can offer desirable results that last for years to come. These tooth coverings can be an excellent option for patients in good oral health looking to improve a variety of cosmetic dental issues.

Request an appointment or call Farmington Family Dentistry at 505-295-4075 for an appointment in our Farmington office.

Recent Posts

Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures For Discolored Teeth

With the latest treatments in cosmetic dentistry, it is easy to have a white, bright smile. Everybody wants to have sparkling teeth, but it is difficult to achieve it without professional help. That is why teeth-whitening treatments are everywhere. If you are thinking about getting a cosmetic dentistry treatment to treat your stained teeth, here…

Ask A Cosmetic Dentist: Are Veneers Considered Cosmetic

While veneers are technically considered cosmetic treatments, a cosmetic dentist may describe additional benefits to getting them added to the teeth. Dental veneers can both improve the look of the smile and help keep teeth healthy. These thin, customized shells cover the front of the teeth and can be customized to match the color of…

Ask A Cosmetic Dentist: What Is Dental Bonding

One of the treatment options a cosmetic dentist may employ to improve the appearance of a person's smile is dental bonding. Also known as tooth bonding, dental bonding is a procedure that involves applying a tooth-colored resin to the teeth to achieve the desired result. When a cosmetic dentist performs dental bonding, the dentist applies…

Recent Posts

Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures For Discolored Teeth

Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures For Discolored Teeth

With the latest treatments in cosmetic dentistry, it is easy to have a white, bright smile. Everybody wants to have sparkling teeth, but it is difficult to achieve it without professional help. That is why teeth-whitening treatments are everywhere. If you are thinking about getting a cosmetic dentistry treatment to treat your stained teeth, here…

TMJ Treatments From A General Dentist

TMJ Treatments From A General Dentist

TMJ disorders are known to be one of the most grueling, as they induce a lot of discomfort and difficulty eating. However, modern-day technology has allowed for a wide range of options when it comes to treatment plans. Working with a general dentist is typically the first step. As surprising as it may be, general…