Dental veneers are very thin tooth-coloured shells that are bonded to the surface of your teeth, usually made of porcelain. They’re a great way to subtly change the shape, colour, size or length of your natural teeth. Depending on your needs, they can be applied on only one tooth or used on all visible teeth to revamp your smile.
Are Veneers Right for Me?
Porcelain veneers are ideal for teeth with minor imperfections. They’re perfect for hiding cracks or filling in a small chip on the edge of a tooth. They can also be used to slightly reshape or lengthen teeth that are too small or oddly shaped. Veneers can even correct slight crookedness or fill in a gap between teeth. Finally, they can do wonders for stained or discoloured teeth that can’t be whitened.
How Are Veneers Applied?
Here’s what you can expect when you decide to have dental veneers applied to your teeth:
Planning. Once you and your dentist have determined that veneers are right for you, they’ll examine your teeth and may take X-rays.
Preparation. Your dentist will prepare your natural tooth for the veneers by removing a thin layer of enamel (about the same thickness as the veneer) from the front and sides of the tooth. They’ll then take an impression of the prepared teeth to send to the laboratory that will create your veneers.
At the same time, you’ll work with your dentist to choose the right shade to match your remaining teeth. It will take approximately two weeks before your veneers are ready.
Bonding. Once the veneers are ready, your dentist will check the fit and colour to make sure they match your teeth perfectly. Then, they’ll thoroughly clean your teeth to ensure no bacteria become trapped under the layer of porcelain.
The tooth is then roughened to ensure the veneer bonds thoroughly. A special cement that’s cured using a UV light is then used to affix the veneer to your tooth.
Follow-up. After about two weeks, your dentist will want to see you again to make sure the veneers are properly attached and fit correctly.
Aftercare. In order to keep your veneers looking good and your teeth healthy, it’s important to keep up your regular oral hygiene routine, including brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning.
Cosmetic Dentistry in South Edmonton
Wondering if veneers are right for you? Consult a dentist from Heritage Dental Centre in South Edmonton to find out. Contact us today to make an appointment.
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Dr. Gordon Poznikoff
Owner and General Dentist at Heritage Dental Centre in Edmonton.
