Dental veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or resin composite that cover the front tooth surface. The dentist will help you determine the best type of veneers for your condition. These veneers help improve the appearance of your damaged teeth because they change their shape, color, or size. 

To understand the process of getting veneers, here is a guide. 

When to Use Dental Veneers 

When dentists apply the veneers to the front teeth, they create a symmetrical and even smile. They can also fix several dental issues, with some of the most common being fixing: 

  • Discolored teeth.
  • Worn-down teeth.
  • Misaligned or uneven teeth. 
  • Chipped or broken teeth.
  • Gaps in the teeth.

Teeth can lose their original color owing to root canal treatment, excessive fluoride, certain medications, and large fillings. 

Dental Veneer Process 

Getting dental veneers will require at least three trips to the dentist. The first visit is for consultation, the second is to create the veneers, and the third is for application. Dentists can apply them to one or several teeth in one appointment. 

During the initial appointment, the dentist will examine the teeth to determine if you qualify for the veneers. You can discuss your goals and learn about the procedure's benefits and limits. The dentist may opt to take dental X-rays.  

Preparing the Tooth

Before applying a veneer, the tooth will require preparation, which involves reshaping the surface to be ready for the veneer. As a result, it may be necessary to numb the area before trimming the enamel. The dentist will create an impression or model of the tooth and deliver it to the lab to create the veneer. It can take a few weeks for the veneers to be ready, a period during which you can use temporary veneers. 

The Bonding Process 

After receiving the veneer, the dentist will place it over the tooth to check the fit and color. They can adjust the color using the right shade of cement. They will repeat the removal and trimming process to achieve the perfect fit before cementing it. The dentist will clean, polish, and etch the teeth to roughen the surface and allow for strong bonding. They will then place the veneer on the tooth after applying a special cement. 

Hardening the Cement 

After positioning the veneer on the tooth, the dentist will use a special ultraviolet light to harden the cement quickly. The dentist will remove any excess cement before checking the bite and making necessary adjustments. You will need to schedule a follow-up appointment in a few weeks to check the condition of the gums and veneer placement.

Before you get veneers, the dentist will examine your teeth to ensure that they are in good health. If you have gum disease or tooth decay, you are not a good candidate for dental veneers. Once you have them on, maintain good oral hygiene to protect your veneers. 

For more on the process of getting veneers, call Robert A. Rees, DDS, at (858) 295-8082 to reach our office in La Jolla, California.

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