What To Expect During a Dental Veneer Procedure
Dental veneers are thin, custom-made hulls placed on the teeth’ front surface to boost their appearance. They are constructed from either porcelain or resin composite materials and are designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth.
If you are thinking of getting veneers, it is critical to understand what the procedure involves and what to expect during the process.
1. Consultation and Planning
Before undergoing a dental veneer procedure, your dentist will schedule a consultation to discuss your goals and expectations. During this appointment, they will examine your teeth and gums to ensure you are a candidate for veneers. They will also take x-rays and 3D impressions of your teeth to create a model that will be used to design your custom veneers.
If you have any underlying dental conditions, such as cavities or gum disease, you must have them resolved before the veneer procedure can occur. Your dentist will also discuss the different types of veneers available and help you choose the best option for your needs and budget.
2. Preparing the Teeth
Once you have decided to proceed with the veneer procedure, your dentist will prepare your teeth for the placement of veneers. This involves scraping off a thin portion of enamel from the exterior of your teeth to leave space for the veneers. The amount of enamel removed is typically equal to the thickness of the veneers, which can range from 0.5 to 1.0 millimeters.
After removing the enamel, your dentist will take another impression of your teeth to ensure that the veneers will fit properly. They may also place temporary veneers on your teeth to protect them while the permanent veneers are being fabricated.
3. Fabricating the Veneers
The fabrication process for veneers typically takes 1-2 weeks, during which time your dentist will send the impressions of your teeth to a dental laboratory. The laboratory will create your custom veneers based on the specifications provided by your dentist, including the size, shape, and color of the veneers.
Sometimes, your dentist may use computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology to create your veneers in-office. This process involves using a digital scanner to build a 3D impression of your teeth, which is then used to create your veneers using a milling machine. This process can be completed in a single day but may not be available at all dental offices.
4. Placing the Veneers
Once your custom veneers have been fabricated, your dentist will schedule an appointment to place them on your teeth. During this appointment, they will first remove the temporary veneers if they were placed. They will then clean and etch the exterior of your teeth to ready them for the bonding process.
Next, your dentist will apply a special adhesive to the back of the veneers and place them on your teeth. They will then use a curing light to activate the adhesive, which will bond the veneers to your teeth. Once the bonding process is complete, your dentist will trim and polish the veneers to ensure a natural-looking fit.
5. Aftercare and Maintenance
After the veneer procedure is complete, taking good care of your new smile is important. This includes maintaining good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing regularly and steering clear from hard or sticky foods that could damage the veneers. Your dentist may also recommend wearing a bite guard at night to protect the veneers from grinding or clenching.
Veneers typically last 10-15 years with proper care but may need to be replaced earlier if they become damaged or discolored. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can help ensure your veneers’ longevity and overall oral health.
Conclusion
Dental veneers are a popular cosmetic orthodontic procedure that can help make your smile look better. By understanding what to expect during the veneer procedure, you can make an informed decision about your dental care and achieve the smile you have always wanted. If you are interested in veneers, schedule a consultation with your dentist to learn more about this option and whether it is right for you.
If you’re looking for a smile makeover, visit Southborough Dental Partners for the best dental veneers in Southborough. Our experienced dentists will provide you with the highest quality service and care to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Schedule your consultation today to book an appointment.