Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of teeth, and they’re typically crafted from porcelain or resin composite. The process of getting veneers involves several steps, from initial consultation to final placement. By understanding this process, you can know what to expect. Here is more information about the stages of a veneer procedure and aftercare:
Teeth Are Trimmed
The veneer procedure begins with preparing your teeth. A small amount of enamel is removed from the tooth surface, and the amount removed is nearly equal to the thickness of the veneer to be added. This trimming helps the veneer sit flush with your other teeth, and the dentist uses a local anesthetic to numb the area before starting. Because they carefully reshape the tooth’s surface, it allows for proper placement of the veneer.
Veneers Are Fabricated
After your teeth are prepared, the dentist will take an impression of them. They send the model to a dental laboratory, and the lab uses the impression to construct your custom veneers. You might wear temporary veneers while the permanent ones are being made, which can take several weeks.
This step makes sure the final product fits your mouth correctly. They meticulously match the color and shape to your natural teeth, and this aims for a uniform appearance. Because dentists are highly trained, the end product typically matches your teeth.
The fabrication process is highly complex. Technicians in the lab build the veneers layer by layer to mimic the look of natural tooth enamel. Depending on the material choice, either porcelain or composite, it can affect the final appearance and durability.
Veneers Are Attached
When your permanent veneers are ready, you will return for the attachment appointment. The dentist places the veneer on your tooth to check its fit and color. Before the veneer is permanently bonded, your tooth is cleaned, polished, and etched. Etching roughens the tooth surface to allow for a strong, facilitated process.
They apply a special cement to the veneer, and then they place it on your tooth. Once correctly positioned, a special light beam activates chemicals in the cement. This causes the cement to harden very quickly, permanently bonding the veneer to your tooth. The final steps include removing any excess cement and making final adjustments.
Follow-up Care is Advised
After your dentist attaches your veneers, they will provide instructions for care. Good oral hygiene is necessary for maintaining the health of your teeth and veneers. Following these practices can help maintain your veneers for years.
Follow-up appointments allow your dentist to check the condition of your veneers. They will typically also examine how your gums are responding to the new additions. With regular care, you can implement standard practices:
- Brush twice a day.
- Floss daily.
- Attend regular dental check-ups.
Schedule an Appointment for Veneers
The veneer process involves multiple stages, from initial tooth preparation to final bonding and follow-up care. Knowing the steps helps you prepare for the procedure. If you are interested in learning more about veneers, the next step is to talk with a dental professional. They can assess your specific situation and discuss your options. Contact a dentist today to schedule a consultation and learn more about the veneer procedure.
