A cosmetic dentist performs procedures every day that improve the look of a patient's smile and help build confidence. Veneers are an option for patients who do not like the appearance of the teeth due to shape, size, damage or alignment. Applying veneers involves a multi-step process that includes permanent removal of some of the natural enamel of the teeth, so many patients have questions about the procedure before committing.
Many patients like the results they see on others who have received veneers to correct smile issues. For patients considering a smile makeover or looking for ways to correct damage to the teeth, learning more about the veneer process can help make the decision easier.
The first step for obtaining dental veneers is planning. The cosmetic dentist evaluates the condition of the teeth and speaks with the patient about the goals and desired outcome. If the patient is not a good candidate for veneers, the dentist can provide other viable options. If the patient is a good candidate, the dentist gives an overview of the process and schedules the necessary visits. Some patients need other types of correction before moving forward with veneers, such as filling cavities, improving gum disease or addressing oral hygiene concerns.
Veneers are constructed from porcelain or a dental composite material. First, the dentist cleans the patient's teeth and makes an impression to send to a specialized laboratory. The dentist then removes tooth enamel so the veneer will have a place to attach.
The amount of enamel that must be removed depends on the thickness of the veneer to be used. The removal is necessary to maintain the same thickness as the natural tooth and to give the veneer a proper surface for bonding. Some modern veneers are very thin and do not require an excessive amount of enamel removal. Veneer construction can take a few weeks, so in the meantime the patient may be fitted with temporary veneers.
To bond the veneers to the teeth, the dentist etches the surface of each tooth to make the attachment stronger. A fit test takes place and each veneer is adjusted as needed. The veneers are then bonded to the teeth using a special dental cement or adhesive. The fit is checked again once the veneers have been placed and bonded to the teeth, and any overflow cement is removed. The patient then should schedule a follow-up visit to make sure goals have been met.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Cosmetic Dentist in Houston, TX.
During the consultation with a cosmetic dentist, patients may have many questions about the process of getting veneers. Before veneers can be placed, a portion of the natural tooth enamel must be removed to maintain the proper amount of tooth thickness and to give an abrasive surface to adhere the veneers. Patients who learn more about the veneer process are better able to make an informed decision before moving forward.
Request an appointment or call Dental Bright at 713-357-6355 for an appointment in our Houston office.
An experienced cosmetic dentist can provide dental veneers to help you regain your smile. The custom-fit shells can improve your looks. Each one can even provide support for your teeth. Here are the questions to ask your cosmetic dentist to find out if getting veneers will be a good decision for you.These thin shells go…
A leading reason people turn to a cosmetic dentist is to get a whiter smile. Teeth whitening happens to be one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures. However, it is not the only way a cosmetic dentist can help you get a whiter smile. Here is a closer look at your smile-brightening options.Cosmetic dentists…
When gums start to recede and pull away from the teeth, it can alter the appearance of the smile and leave the teeth vulnerable to decay. A cosmetic dentist may fix receding gums, restoring the smile's appearance. While the focus will be on aesthetics, some cosmetic dental procedures may also protect your oral health.Gum recession…