Everything you need to know about cosmetic, strong, and biocompatible porcelain veneers

Question 1

What are dental veneers?

Answer

Veneers in dentistry refer to dental materials that are prepared and shaped to replace cosmetically “imperfect” tooth enamel. The veneer is placed and secured to the front surfaces of damaged teeth. After the veneer is bonded to the natural tooth, it effectively covers up chips, small cracks, stubborn discoloration, and other flaws. Dr. Nelson can also apply veneers to cover up gaps and other minor spacing issues, and to reshape or resize teeth.

Question 2

What materials do you use?

Answer

Veneers are largely made from porcelain and composite resin. While both materials are biocompatible and align well with our values as a holistic and biological dentistry practice, porcelain offers many benefits to patients.

Question 3

Why is porcelain an attractive option?

Answer

Porcelain is appealing for veneers and other cosmetic dentistry procedures for several reasons:

It is very strong.
Due to its durability, porcelain veneers can last a long time with good oral hygiene.
Porcelain is appropriate for patients with concerns or sensitivity over other dental materials, as it is very safe and compatible with natural tissues.
This material resists staining well.
Porcelain looks like natural tooth enamel. It “mimics” the sheen and texture of enamel. The color of the porcelain may also be matched precisely to the color of your natural teeth. These properties support the most natural-looking results.

Question 4

How do you make and place veneers?

Answer

Veneers are generally completed in 3 visits:

The first visit involves preliminary impressions, photographs and discussion on the design that you are trying to achieve. The lab prepares a wax up of the proposed changes and makes custom molds for preparation guidelines and for custom temporaries to wear while the porcelain restorations are being made at the lab.
During the 2nd appointment, Dr. Nelson prepares the teeth that will be treated. This preparation involves removing a very small amount of enamel. Modern porcelain veneers are very thin. Minimal enamel is removed to accommodate the thickness of the veneer. Since it is a conservative procedure that preserves natural tissue, the veneers process complements our focus on biological and holistic techniques. We also collect information about your teeth, which is used by our lab to make your veneers.

After our lab has made your permanent veneers, you return to our office for a second appointment. During this visit, Dr. Nelson bonds the veneers securely to your teeth. Slight adjustments are made as needed.

Question 5

How do I care for my veneers?

Answer

We advise on products and specific tips to keep your veneers in top, healthy shape. In general, brush and floss like you always have – consistently and thoroughly. Maintain visits to our office for professional cleanings and exams. Refrain from any habits that can cause chips and other types of damage to your veneers and teeth. These habits include chronic teeth grinding. This condition, known as bruxism, may require the use of a protective oral appliance. We can design nightguards or oral splints that are customized to fit your mouth. Custom-fit nightguards optimally protect your veneers from the effects of chronic and intense teeth grinding and jaw clenching.

Question 6

Am I a good candidate for veneers?

Answer

Let’s find out! If your mouth is healthy and you have some of the imperfections mentioned above, porcelain veneers may be an appropriate way to change your smile and your life. It is a privilege to offer procedures that renew both smiles as well as self-confidence and pride. To request your consultation, contact (913) 297-7800.