What are veneers?
Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are fitted to the front of your teeth to improve their appearance. These extremely thin shells are bonded directly to the front of your teeth and are typically made of porcelain or resin composite materials. Porcelain veneers are often chosen because they have a more natural appearance and more closely resemble the shine of real teeth.
What do veneers do?
Veneers can fix a variety of cosmetic dental issues, including:
- Teeth discolored by root canal treatment, a large filling, or stains from excess fluoride or other drugs
- Broken, chipped or worn-down teeth
- Misaligned or irregularly shaped teeth
- Teeth with gaps between them
In general, the veneer will completely cover the old tooth, masking almost any cosmetic problem you may want to address.
What is it like to get veneers?
Installing a dental veneer typically takes place over three separate visits. Your first visit is a consultation to determine if veneers are the best option for your treatment and for you to explain to Dr. Rhoads exactly what your goals are. A veneer can be used for only one tooth or many teeth, so you discuss exactly where the veneer will be placed, and Dr. Rhoads takes X-rays to confirm your teeth are healthy enough to support a veneer.
To install the veneer, Dr. Rhoads removes a small amount of enamel from the front of your teeth, creating a rougher surface that the veneer can bond to more easily. Once he’s worn away the enamel, Dr. Rhoads takes a mold of your teeth so your veneers fit perfectly, and you’re given a temporary veneer while your permanent model is made.
You come in for a second visit in a couple of weeks when your veneer is ready. Dr. Rhoads places it on the teeth to check the fit, trimming or shaping it as necessary. Once he’s got a perfect fit, Dr. Rhoads cements the veneers in place, completing the process.
You may need to return in a few weeks to check that the veneer’s bonding is sturdy, but a veneer should last for years when properly cared for.
If you’re interested in how veneers could help improve your smile, call the office today or make an appointment online.
