Porcelain veneers are thin shells that are commonly used to correct cosmetic flaws with one’s smile, like chips, cracks, gaps, misshapen teeth, and minor alignment issues. Though the veneers process is a much quicker and easier way to make your smile look straighter than with traditional braces or clear aligners, there are still a few steps involved. Read on to learn about the veneer process so that you have a better idea of what to expect from the procedure.
Step #1: Creating a Plan
Before you proceed with the veneer process, you will work with your dentist to make a treatment plan customized to fit your needs. You can use this time to explain your smile goals so they can determine the best way to achieve them. The more detailed you are, the better. If possible, bring photos to your appointment to use as examples of what you want your pearly whites to look like. Your dentist will let you know how possible those results are and may recommend alternative methods if necessary.
Step #2: Preparing the Teeth
Next, your dentist will prepare your teeth for the veneers. Oral health issues like cavities will need to be treated before they move forward. They will have to remove a thin layer of enamel from the front surface of the teeth to make sure that they adhere properly and blend in with your surrounding pearly whites. These alterations are permanent, so make sure that you’re completely comfortable with the veneer process before you get to this point.
Step #3: Crafting at the Laboratory
Once your dentist has finished preparing your teeth, they will take impressions of them so they can be sent off to the dental lab that’s going to make your veneers. Your dentist will also fit you with a set of temporary veneers. These will protect your smile from harm while you wait on the permanent ones to be made and will prevent your smile from looking odd.
Step #4: The Final Placement
Once your dentist receives your permanent veneers from the dental lab, they will have you come back in to have them placed. They will do this using a dental cement that holds them in place. Once they’re done attaching the veneers, your new and improved smile will be complete!
The veneer process involves several steps, but it’s pretty straightforward. Veneers can last upwards of a decade with proper care, so make sure to take good care of yours so you can enjoy a new and improved smile for years to come!
About the Practice
If your teeth are chipped, cracked, misaligned, gapped, discolored, or misshapen, Dr. Robert A. Whitmore and his skilled Arlington team can help. They offer DFW residents durable, life-like porcelain veneers to cover up smile imperfections and help you achieve the beautiful, healthy-looking smile you deserve. Call the dental office of Dr. Robert A. Whitmore at (817) 468-1212 or visit his website for more information on the veneer process or to set up an appointment today.