We often observe issues with our teeth that require cosmetic attention. These problems include stained, broken, discolored, or smaller than average-sized teeth. That’s where dental veneers come into play. These are thin, tooth-colored shells that are attached to the front surface of the tooth to improve its appearance.
These restorations are usually made of dental-grade porcelain and are permanently attached to the teeth. In most instances, just 1-2 veneers would suffice to cover damaged or broken teeth. But some cases may require 6-8 veneers for an even and symmetrical look.
Types of Veneers
There are two main types of veneers available – Ceramic and Composite. Traditional veneers are made of wafer-thin porcelain and require more intensive prep work. On the other hand, composite veneers are made of composite resin and require minimal prep work. Both of them are perfectly fitted, durable, and give an instant smile makeover. Also, they are tooth-colored, allowing you to smile without feeling conscious of your facial appearance.
Why Should You Choose Dental Veneers?
- People often compare veneers with implants or crowns. Veneers only cover the front surface of the tooth, whereas the crown or implants are more extensive solutions. Therefore, veneers are a more convenient option.
- It covers a chipped, cracked, or discolored tooth and gives a more improved appearance and natural-looking tooth surface without replacing the natural tooth itself.
- They are well-fitted, strong, and highly durable.
- The maintenance of dental veneers is very simple. If given care properly, they last for several years.
Procedure
The entire process can be done in just two sittings. However, follow-up consultations are required after that. There are three major steps that your dentist will follow, which are:
Initial Assessment – During the first consultation, your dentist will examine your tooth to check if it requires veneer. At this stage, your dentist will discuss all the necessary details with you and take an X-ray to examine the condition of your tooth.
Tooth Preparation – Now, your Dentist San Jose will prepare your tooth by trimming down approximately half a millimeter of the enamel to get an accurate fitting for the veneer and will take an impression of it. This impression will be sent to the laboratory, where your veneer will be made. This usually takes a few days.
Veneer Placement – Once the veneer is ready, on the final sitting, your dentist will thoroughly clean your tooth and then use dental adhesives to bond the veneer and then secure it using a curing light. A bite test will be taken to ensure optimum fit.
Regular brushing twice a day, along with keeping away from unhealthy oral habits such as chewing hard substances like pens, fingernails, or using your teeth to open plastic packaging, is necessary to maintain your veneers as good as new.
Please reach out to Galan Dental, Dentist in San Jose, CA, to have a consultation with our dentist, Dr. Galan. Please call us at (408) 377-8200 or schedule an online consultation, and we’ll guide you further.