If you’re not happy with some aspects of your smile, which cosmetic service do you choose? Teeth whitening, cosmetic bonding, or maybe a crown? For some, there may be a simpler answer: Instead of choosing multiple treatments, veneers serve as the single solution to many smile flaws.
In this blog, Kevin Miller, DDS, and our team at Dentistry in Paradise in Santa Barbara, California, highlight the convenience 一 and aesthetic brilliance 一 of porcelain veneers. Here’s a look at the many imperfections this one procedure can address and what you can expect when you get veneers.
One treatment to enhance your smile
Unlike other cosmetic dentistry services, veneers don’t treat one specific issue. Rather, veneers can correct many flaws at the same time. Veneers are thin porcelain shells that cover the front of your natural teeth, and they’re completely customized to transform your smile.
Veneers can:
- Brighten your teeth, even if your teeth have been permanently stained by medication, excessive fluoride, or other causes
- Enhance the size and shape of your teeth
- Hide minor imperfections such as chips and cracks
- Hide minor gaps between teeth
- Elongate teeth that appear too short
In addition to physically enhancing your smile, veneers also boost your self-confidence, eliminate self-conscious feelings regarding tooth flaws and imperfections, and help you love your smile once again.
One solution in just two appointments
If you’re considering multiple services, such as whitening treatments, crowns, and cosmetic bonding, you may need several appointments to accomplish your goals. The process for getting veneers is much simpler — after your consultation, you only need two appointments. And all of your teeth can receive veneers at the same time.
During your first appointment, we prepare your teeth to receive veneers. This involves removing a thin layer of enamel, just enough to make room for your new porcelain veneers. At this time, our team also takes impressions, or molds, of your teeth.
These are sent to a laboratory, where your custom veneers are fabricated based on the specifications — including tooth shade — laid out by Dr. Miller. Because each set of veneers is customized for you, it can take a few weeks for the lab to create your veneers. We apply temporary veneers at your first appointment until your permanent veneers are ready.
When you return for your second appointment, you can expect:
- Removal of your temporary veneers
- Cleaning, drying, and etching your teeth, which helps create a secure bond with your veneers
- Cementing your veneers in place
- Curing the cement with a special light
After we place your veneers, we remove any excess cement, check your bite, and answer any questions you have about your new smile. All of this transpires while you’re comfortably reclined watching your favorite Netflix show on our overhead monitors.
Easy maintenance
The process is simple for receiving veneers, and so is your daily maintenance. Unlike dentures, you don’t remove or soak veneers. They’re permanently secured to your natural teeth, and you can continue to brush and floss as you normally would. With a solid at-home oral care routine, your veneers can last for up to a decade or longer.
Treat yourself to a smile makeover
If you’re ready to turn a dull smile into a dazzling one, schedule your consultation for veneers today. During your consultation, we discuss your aesthetic goals, answer your questions, and guide you with your next steps 一 whether that’s veneers or another one of our cosmetic dentistry services.
You can reach our office by phone at 805-967-0272 or request an appointment via our online portal.