If you are wondering what dental veneers are, then know that these are extremely thin, tooth-colored shells that are customized to cover a person's teeth. When veneers are placed on a person's teeth, they cover all the defects and imperfections on them.
Veneers can make the most deformed and stained teeth appear perfect when the wearer opens their mouth. It is one of the reasons why these prosthetics are so popular, particularly in Hollywood. Your favorite celebrities would not appear so attractive if dental veneers were not a thing.
Veneers are usually used to fix dental issues like:
- Worn down teeth
- Broken or chipped teeth
- Uneven teeth
- Misaligned teeth
- Deformed teeth
- Stained teeth
- Gaps between teeth
The process of making dental veneers
Veneers are commonly made from porcelain or composite resins. Many opt for porcelain veneers since these look more natural and are highly resistant to stains. Composite materials offer a cheaper solution, but they do not mimic the way natural teeth reflect light as well.
The dentist will educate the patient about the different materials they can choose from during their consultation.
Where are veneers made?
There are two primary ways veneers are made:
- One option involves the dentist taking an image or impression of the patient teeth's and sending it over to a laboratory that makes veneers. It takes about two weeks for the veneers to be ready for installation. The patient then comes in for installation when the customized prosthetics are ready
- CEREC technology can be used to make same-day veneers. It involves using digital imaging and a milling machine that works somewhat like a 3-D printer. It makes the veneers onsite out of ceramic blocks. The entire process takes less than an hour
What to expect during the installation of veneers
The traditional procedure for getting veneers can require up to three trips to the dentist. Though the process for same-day veneers is shorter.
- During the first visit, the dentist educates the patient about veneers, how it permanently changes their teeth and what to expect after getting them. Most dentists will not install veneers the same day since it is a permanent procedure. The patient is given time to sleep on the decision
- If the patient decides veneers are right for them, then the dentist will prepare the person for veneers during the second visit. Portions of enamel are removed, the impression of the person's teeth is taken and the information is sent to a lab. The patient is fitted with temporary veneers in the meantime
- The customized veneers should be ready in a couple of weeks and the patient is called in for a third appointment. The veneers are bonded to the person's teeth and evaluated for a proper fit. The dentist might schedule a follow-up visit to evaluate how the patient's gums respond to the prosthetics
Restore your smile with dental veneers
Veneers can turn the worst smiles into a red-carpet-ready smile. They can be used to address any cosmetic issues you would like to change about your teeth. Stop by our office for a consultation today.
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