| Chipped, stained, discolored, unevenly
spaced, or even slightly crooked front teeth can cause people
not to
smile. And that's
no way to live! Fortunately, in many cases, porcelain veneers
are an excellent solution to providing a completely new-looking,
long-lasting smile. Applying porcelain veneers is a simple three-step
procedure involving bonding thin, shell-like coverings to the
problem teeth, thereby creating a more attractive color, shape
or size. And in many cases, veneers can provide a durable, stain-resistant
alternative to crowns.
Evaluation & Imagination
If you’re interested in having porcelain veneers put
on your teeth, the doctor will first carefully evaluate your
specific situation, listening to you explain the exact changes
you have in mind. Then, he'll do several things to help you
visualize your end result. He’ll spend some time showing
you photos of similar case outcomes; then he may also demonstrate
potential changes on the computer screen for you, using our
'Vipersoft' program of digital imaging.
Preparation & Customization
After you’ve agreed on your desired results and a corresponding
course of action, the doctor will prepare your teeth for the
veneers by gently buffing or filing approximately one half
of a millimeter from the surface of each recipient tooth. Occasionally,
this step requires a local anesthetic. He'll then take the
final mold or impression of your teeth and send it to a special
professional dental laboratory. There, experts will carefully
produce your veneers for a custom-fit.
Application & Protection
When the veneers are ready, the doctor will apply them temporarily
with water or glycerine, to test their fit and color. As
soon as you're both completely happy with their compatibility,
look, feel, and fit, he'll permanently affix them to your
teeth using a special dental cement. Finally, to activate
the cement’s hardening agent, he’ll apply a visible
light beam to the veneers and create your finished look.
Of course, you'll need to clean and floss your new smile daily!
Not to mention regular dental visits for professional care
and maintenance. And to protect this new investment, you may
also want to discuss wearing a night-guard to prevent any accidental
clenching or grinding pressure while you sleep. |
