There is one smile makeover that has lasting results. You’ll have perfectly straight, white teeth that will be the envy of anyone who sees them. And they won’t know you’ve gotten veneers.
These thin porcelain covers look and act just like your natural teeth and can last 20+ years depending on maintenance and care. That’s why they are a major tool of cosmetic dentistry today.
These wafer-thin cosmetic covers are by far the most well-known celebrity dental procedure. Originally made of porcelain, you can also get them made from composite resin.
What Do Veneers Do for Your Smile?
Custom veneers can quickly give you the smile of your dreams while still looking 100 percent natural. With these cosmetic covers, Sky Dental can fix gaps that orthodontics couldn’t correct. You can lengthen your teeth and take care of chips gaps and oddly shaped teeth. They are also a good idea when badly discolored teeth have not responded to whitening treatments.
Veneers Phoenix = Your Smile Makeover, Delivered
Getting these permanent tooth covers usually requires multiple appointments, but the results will be worth it.
During the first appointment, your dentist will walk you through what to expect. The veneer procedure requires the dentist to file and shape the teeth. In some cases, severe filing is necessary (you may or may not want to look before bonds are added!). The front surface of the tooth must be roughed up to ensure that the adhesive will hold the cover in place. This removes the natural tooth enamel, but it shouldn’t be of concern since the porcelain or resin will take its place.
Molds are taken of the re-shaped teeth, and the data is sent to a lab where your customized veneers will be made.
Temporary teeth, or “bonds,” are then added so you get a preview of your future smile. Since bonds aren’t customized or permanent, they won’t look as flawless as your veneers, though. However, many patients are thrilled at the dramatic improvement even temporary bonds can make!
It usually takes 2 – 3 weeks for your custom veneers to arrive. During this time, your bond adhesive may start to weaken, but don’t panic. With a little care, temporary bonds can and should last well until your veneer appointment.
The final appointment is the exciting one. At this point, it’s a surprisingly quick and easy process. Unlike bridges, implants, and dentures, getting veneers doesn’t require anything to secure them to your natural teeth beyond the dental adhesive. This is a big plus for many patients who want to minimize invasiveness.
Your “new teeth” have arrived. Each customized to fit your teeth and your mouth. The temporary bonds are removed, and the new ones are permanently placed with a special dental cement. After polishing and drying your re-shaped teeth, your Phoenix dentist firmly attaches the veneers.
Once in place, the sturdiness of your veneers are tested. Wrapping it up, the hygienist flosses to ensure just the right amount of space is left to allow for efficient oral hygiene.
Who is Eligible for This Treatment?
If you have all of your natural teeth, you are a good candidate for this customized smile makeover. If you have lost teeth, you may be able to get dental implants and have veneers on your remaining teeth. In some cases, your dentist may advise against this treatment and tell you about alternatives that are better for your teeth, based on their condition.
How to Make Your Smile Makeover Last
Veneers generally last about 15 years, according to the American Dental Association. It all depends on 1) the quality of the procedure, 2) how well you care for your teeth, and 3) how “rough” you are on them.
As for #1, make sure to choose a reputable Phoenix cosmetic dentist, such as Dr. Scott Connell. You can count on Sky Dental for high quality materials and workmanship.
You are in control of #2 and #3. So make sure to learn all you can about caring for your new, improved smile. You’ll want to make regular six-month visits to the dentist as usual to ensure good oral health.
Custom veneers are truly one of the best tools cosmetic dentists have, but it requires great skill to apply them well. Fortunately you can trust the skills of our cosmetic dentists to get it right from start to beautiful finish!
Cosmetic Dentistry Alternatives
What are the alternatives to this treatment? Experienced cosmetic dentists can fix gaps and chips with dental bonding. This restores strength to the tooth and improves the smile. Visibly flawed teeth may be crowned to create a straighter smile. If a tooth is missing, your dentist can replace it with a dental implant and a crown. For those who have crooked teeth, there may be an orthodontic appliance that can fix the problem. Of course, simply having your teeth professionally whitened may take care of discoloration. You can ask Dr. Connell about all of these options at your regular dental care visit or make a special appointment to discuss your smile makeover.
Get started on a complete smile makeover like you’ve never had before! Call Sky Dental or schedule a consultation online.