Dental Veneers
At Premier Dental Care of Buckhead, we understand the importance of maintaining the health and beauty of your teeth. Perhaps you don’t like the way your teeth look and are ready for a change. Dental veneers are the most predictable way to drastically improve the appearance of your teeth with minimal preparation. Whether your teeth are worn, discolored, or damaged, check with one of our dentists to see if dental veneers are right for you.
What are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are handmade restorations to enhance the appearance, shape, and color of your teeth. Crowns and veneers are both very similar and mostly vary in terms of the design of the preparation. Veneers typically involve less preparation of your teeth and will be bonded over the front of your existing tooth structure.
Types of Dental Veneers
- Porcelain Veneers – Typically the most sought-after restorations due to their esthetics, porcelain veneers are handmade by our ceramist to mimic or enhance the appearance of natural teeth. Porcelain veneers provide the best mix of durability and appearance. There are many types of porcelain, and the exact type may vary in each case. Your dentist will plan your case and determine how much preparation is needed for your case, as well as what your goals are for color and shape. Unfortunately, there are many inferior materials being used today, so it is important to check with your dentist and make sure you are getting the best material possible.
- Composite Veneers – These are done using the same materials we use for dental fillings. This resin material is applied directly in the chair by the dentist, typically with very minimal preparation. These require a lot of time and artistry and look beautiful. They typically need to be replaced more often than porcelain veneers and are more prone to staining.
What Happens During a Dental Veneer Appointment?
One of our doctors will see you after diagnosing a need for dental veneers. The reasons for a dental veneer may vary, but we always want to address your specific needs and requests. Once a treatment plan is devised, they will typically recommend taking some models and making a “wax up” of the proposed shape and length of your new veneers. Once completed, they will see you again to make sure you like the appearance of the models and proposed plan. Next, they will see you for a preparation appointment. The teeth will be prepared as little as possible and then impressed. Our ceramist will meet with you make sure you get the perfect shape and color. Next, your teeth will be temporized, and you will return for a try-in appointment with the final veneers. If you love the appearance, the dental veneers will be cemented in place that day!
Aftercare for Dental Veneers
With most dental veneers, you can function on them right away, keeping in mind that your teeth and gums may be numb for several hours. It’s important to continue to brush and floss around your dental veneers to prevent new issues from starting. It’s possible that you may experience some initial sensitivity after your teeth are restored and your mouth adjusts to some changes. We will continue to monitor all restorations at your checkup appointments to make sure they are all doing well. Keep in mind, that some foods may need to be avoided, such as hard candy, that could put your veneers at risk. Call us today to see how we can help restore your mouth to give you the smile you want!
