Veneers

Veneers are ultra-thin, custom-made shells crafted from porcelain or composite resin, designed to cover the front surface of teeth and enhance their appearance. These cosmetic dental solutions are bonded to the teeth to address various aesthetic issues such as discoloration, chips, gaps, and minor misalignments, providing a natural and aesthetically pleasing look.

Porcelain veneers are known for their durability and resistance to staining, closely mimicking the light-reflecting properties of natural teeth. In contrast, composite resin veneers are more cost-effective and require less tooth enamel removal.

The process involves tooth preparation, taking impressions, and securely bonding the veneers. With proper care, veneers can last many years, offering a long-lasting solution for a beautiful smile. Ideal for those seeking a significant improvement in their dental aesthetics, veneers are a popular choice in cosmetic dentistry for achieving a flawless, confident smile.

Conditions Dental Veneers Can Address

• Veneers can cover teeth that are severely stained or discolored due to factors such as root canal treatment, excessive fluoride, large resin fillings, or stains from tetracycline and other drugs.

• Teeth worn down over time due to grinding (bruxism) or other factors can be restored to their original shape and size with veneers.

• Veneers can cover and restore teeth that are chipped or broken, providing a smooth, natural appearance.

• Teeth that are misaligned, uneven, or irregular (such as those having craters or bulges) can look more uniform and aesthetically pleasing with veneers.

• Veneers can close small gaps between teeth, providing a more even and aligned smile.

Types of Dental Veneers

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are renowned for their durability, aesthetics, and stain resistance. These veneers are made from a high-quality ceramic material that mimics tooth enamel's natural clarity and luster, providing a lifelike appearance. Porcelain veneers are custom-crafted in a dental lab based on impressions of your teeth, ensuring a perfect fit and natural look.

The process typically involves two visits: one for tooth preparation and impressions and another for fitting and bonding the veneers. While porcelain veneers are more expensive than other types, their longevity and superior aesthetic qualities often make them a worthwhile investment for those seeking a long-term solution for improving their smile.

Composite Resin Veneers

Composite resin veneers offer a more cost-effective alternative to porcelain veneers and can often be applied in a single dental visit. These veneers are made from a tooth-colored resin material applied directly to the teeth and sculpted to achieve the desired shape and appearance.

The procedure for composite resin veneers is less invasive, typically requiring minimal removal of tooth enamel. While composite veneers can look very natural, they may not match the translucency and longevity of porcelain veneers and are more susceptible to staining and wear. However, they can be easily repaired if damaged, making them a practical option for many patients.

 

The Dental Veneers Procedure

Initial Consultation

• The procedure begins with an initial consultation, during which the patient discusses their aesthetic goals and concerns with our dentist. This crucial step ensures that the patient and dentist understand the desired outcome clearly.

• Our dentist thoroughly examines the patient's teeth, taking X-rays and possibly impressions of the mouth and teeth. This helps assess the suitability of veneers for the patient's needs.

• Based on the examination, the dentist explains the different veneer options available, such as porcelain, composite resin, or Lumineers, and outlines the procedure details, benefits, and potential risks.

Preparation

• If porcelain veneers are chosen, our dentist prepares the teeth by removing a small amount of enamel from the tooth surface. This is necessary to accommodate the thickness of the veneers and ensure a natural fit.

• Impressions of the teeth are then taken, which are used to create the custom veneers. These impressions are sent to a dental lab where the veneers are crafted to fit the exact specifications of the patient's teeth.

• In some cases, temporary veneers may be placed on the prepared teeth to protect them while the permanent veneers are being made.

Veneer Fabrication

• The dental lab fabricates the veneers based on the impressions and specifications provided by the dentist. This process typically takes one to two weeks.

• During fabrication, the veneers are matched to the color of the surrounding teeth to ensure a natural and seamless appearance.

Bonding

• Once the veneers are ready, our dentist places them onto the teeth and checks their fit and color. Adjustments are made as necessary to ensure a perfect match.

• The teeth are thoroughly cleaned, polished, and etched to create a suitable surface for bonding the veneers.

• A special cement is applied to the veneer and placed onto the tooth. The dentist carefully positions the veneer to achieve the desired look.

• A special curing light hardens the cement quickly, firmly securing the veneer.

• The dentist removes any excess cement and finishes the veneer, ensuring a comfortable and natural fit.

Bonding for Composite Veneers

• For composite resin veneers, the dentist applies the composite resin directly onto the tooth in layers, sculpting it to the desired shape and size.

• Each resin layer is hardened using a special curing light, ensuring the veneer adheres firmly to the tooth.

• Once the desired shape is achieved, the veneer is polished to match the sheen of the natural teeth, providing a smooth and aesthetically pleasing finish.

Follow-Up

• After the veneers are placed, a follow-up visit is scheduled to check their placement and comfort. This ensures that the veneers function well and that the patient is satisfied with the results.

• Our dentist provides the patient with care instructions to maintain the veneers. This typically includes advice on avoiding staining foods and beverages, practicing good oral hygiene, and scheduling regular dental check-ups to ensure the longevity and health of the veneers.

 

Dental veneers offer a versatile solution for enhancing the aesthetic appeal of one's smile, contributing to improved confidence and self-esteem. Visit Parkway Dental at 1404 Sun River Pkwy #125, St. George, UT 84790, or call (435) 256-6167 to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards transforming your smile with dental veneers.