Veneers
Veneers are an excellent way to redesign and reshape your entire mouth. Veneers are a very thin ceramic shell that covers your existing tooth structure. In placing these new veneers on your teeth, you are able to fix the look of issues such as staining, cracked teeth, spaces, misaligned teeth, chipped teeth and many other issues.
In terms of the process to place veneers, it is a process that takes approximately two to three visits. In the first visit, we will discuss the new shape and look of what we are going to accomplish by placing the veneers. Once we have put a plan in place, we will carefully prepare the teeth for the placement of the new veneers.
As we complete this piece of the process, the next step is to take an impression of the newly prepared teeth. This impression will be sent to our laboratory for the final product to be fabricated. We only utilize the highest standard laboratory for fabrication of all of our work. This process at the laboratory takes between 10-14 days. While the new veneers are being fabricated at the lab, we will provide you with a beautiful temporary solution to wear for this time.
As the veneers are finalized, we will make every effort to make sure that your new veneers will feel just like your natural teeth. We will bond them into place ensuring that you can enjoy your new smile for a very long time!
Porcelain Veneer FAQs
What are dental veneers?
Dental veneers are very thin, custom-made ceramic shells that are bonded to the front surfaces of your teeth. They can change the color, shape, size, and length of teeth to create a more even, natural-looking smile.
What can veneers fix?
Veneers can improve teeth that are stained or discolored, chipped, worn, unevenly shaped, or slightly misaligned, and they can close small gaps between teeth. They are often used to redesign the overall appearance of a smile.
What is the process of getting veneers?
The process begins with a consultation to plan your new smile. Next, a thin layer of enamel is removed from the front of each tooth, impressions are taken, and temporary veneers may be placed. Once the custom veneers are ready, they are checked for fit and color, then bonded to your teeth.
Are veneers permanent?
Getting veneers is considered a permanent decision, because a small amount of enamel is removed to place them, and that tooth will always need a covering. The veneers themselves may need to be replaced at some point over the years.
How do I care for veneers?
Care for veneers just like natural teeth: brush twice a day, floss daily, and keep up with regular dental visits. Avoid biting hard objects such as ice or pens, and if you grind your teeth, ask Dr. Hwang about a night guard to protect your veneers.
Can veneers be whitened?
No. Ceramic veneers do not respond to whitening treatments. If you would like whiter natural teeth, it is best to whiten them before your veneers are made, so the veneers can be matched to your brighter shade.
Should I get veneers, bonding, or teeth whitening?
Teeth whitening brightens the natural color of your teeth, bonding is a conservative option for small chips and gaps, and veneers can change both the color and shape of several teeth at once. Dr. Hwang can help you decide which option best matches your goals.
This information is general and is not a substitute for an exam with Dr. Hwang. For emergencies, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. For dental concerns, call West Campus Dental Center at 253-838-3283.
