Veneers

When a patient has cosmetic problems with their teeth, whether it is the color, size, shape, or length, veneers are an excellent option. 

Veneers are special wafer-thin laminates, which can be thought of as customized shells for your teeth, and are used to correct any tooth damage or chipping, to cover stains, and can even help to close small gaps between the teeth. This procedure is typically irreversible since we have to remove about a 1/2 millimeter of enamel from your teeth, so that the customized shell can properly sit on your tooth. Veneers are a popular choice among many people because they last longer and maintain their color longer than bonding, not to mention that they also are highly resistant to staining from cigarettes, tea, and coffee.

When looking to have veneers placed, three appointments are usually needed. They are:

-Diagnosis - During the first appointment it is important that we are able to examine your teeth to see if veneers are appropriate for you. During this visit we may also take X-Rays of your teeth. 

-Preparation - During the second appointment, we prepare your teeth for the veneers. During this visit, which typically lasts 1 to 2 hours, depending on what you want, we may decide to use a a small amount of a local anesthetic, or we may not. Your teeth in this visit will be lightly buffed so that there is room for the shell to sit on top of them. We also will take an impression of your teeth, which is then sent to a lab where a technician makes the veneers. 

The next two weeks are referred to the adjustment period. During this time the shape and size of your teeth may change slightly, which is completely normal. Your follow up appointment will be scheduled out a couple of weeks.  It is important to note that you must practice good oral hygiene and continue to brush and floss daily. Veneers are not a perfect replacement for natural teeth, and as such it is not uncommon for the color to be a slightly different.