Dental veneers are very durable and attractive thin overlays of tooth-colored porcelain or resin, that are intended to cover the front surface of teeth for a nicer appearance. Veneers are bonded to the front of the teeth and have the capacity to change their color, shape, or length. Aesthetic Dental – Dr. Dennis J Wells in Nashville is happy to discuss your interest in veneers.
Veneers are typically manufactured from durable porcelain or composite resin materials. The porcelain version resists stains better than resin, and they also reproduce light-reflecting properties of natural teeth. A discussion with your dentist will help you decide on the best choice of veneer material for your teeth and objectives.
Why would I consider veneers?
Dental veneers are used to address some of the following issues:
- Brighten discolored teeth either from stains or fillings
- Cover heavily worn-down teeth
- Repair broken or chipped teeth
- Create more appealing shape to misaligned teeth
- Fill gaps between teeth
How do Dental Veneers get Installed?
A standard timeline to install veneers involves three trips to your dentist – the first for a consultation and then two more to actually manufacture and install the veneers.
Visit #1 diagnosing and planning. Here is where your dentist will inspect your teeth to ensure that veneers are a viable solution for you. You also get a chance to explain what you would like your teeth to look like and any goals or objectives you have. Your dentist may also take X-rays and / or impressions of your teeth at this time.
Visit #2 tooth preparation. Veneer preparation usually starts with reshaping the tooth surface and removing enamel the same thickness as the new veneer, and a local anesthetic may be required. After this, an impression of your tooth will be made by your dentist, which is subsequently sent out to a dental laboratory for manufacture of the veneer. Typical turnaround times are 2-4 weeks to complete and your dentist may install temporary veneers to cover any unsightly teeth.
Visit #3 the bonding process. During the final visit, your veneer/s will be temporarily fitted it onto your teeth to verify the shape and color are correct. Your dentist will start a process of trimming your new veneer and continually refitting it for the proper bond. Next, your tooth will be cleaned, polished, and etched (roughened) to facilitate a strong bonding process. Bonding cement is then applied to the veneer and installed onto your tooth. A special light beam is pointed to the dental veneer, which activates the cement to harden quickly. After final cleanup and inspection, you are ready to go home, and you may be requested to return in a couple weeks to inspect the fit and functionality.
To learn more or get started, contact us for an appointment: