Veneers are a durable, long-lasting, and convenient way to cover up stained, chipped, misshapen, or uneven teeth. Contact us now to schedule an appointment and learn more about cosmetic dentistry in East Amherst at The Ivory Dental Co.
Veneers are tooth-shaped shells made of durable, tooth-like porcelain. They are similar to a dental crown, but while crowns cover up the entire tooth, veneers are minimally invasive and just cover up the front surface of each tooth.
Because they cover the entire front surface of each tooth that is receiving a veneer, no flaws will be visible. This means they can treat a wide variety of cosmetic dental issues like gaps in your smile, uneven teeth, severe stains, and much more.
Veneers look and feel completely natural, since they’re built from tooth-colored porcelain that’s similar in color and translucence to your enamel. They also last longer than any other cosmetic treatment, with a lifespan that can exceed 10-20 years. Veneers are also highly versatile, so they can treat a lot of cosmetic issues at once, and you can brush and floss them just like natural teeth, making them very convenient.
To begin the process, you’ll meet with Dr. Sweeney to determine if veneers are right for you, and to discuss your options for cosmetic treatment. If you’re approved for veneers, you’ll come back for another appointment with your dentist in East Amherst to have your teeth prepared.
At your tooth preparation appointment, Dr. Sweeney may gently reshape or remove a thin layer of enamel from each tooth that’s receiving a veneer. Then, she will take images and digital impressions of the teeth, which will be sent to a dental lab where your veneers will be built. You’ll be sent home with temporary resin veneers to protect your newly-trimmed teeth and to test drive your new smile.
Once your final veneers arrive at our office, you’ll come back for your last appointment. Dr. Sweeney will check the veneers to make sure they fit perfectly. Once you've approved the veneers, she will bond them into place permanently using a dental resin cement. Then, you’ll be sent home to enjoy your new smile.
Caring for veneers is quite simple, but there are still a few things you should (and shouldn’t) do after getting them.
Brush twice a day for two minutes, floss once per day, and make sure you see Dr. Sweeney for a checkup every six months. You will receive a night guard to protect your new veneers while you sleep. You should also maintain other good oral health habits, like avoiding sugary drinks, quitting smoking/tobacco use, staying hydrated, and eating a healthy diet.
Avoid biting hard foods (almonds, popcorn kernels, ice) with your veneers, or chewing on non-food objects like pens, erasers, or fingernails. You also should never use your front teeth as “tools” to hold items, tear open packages, rip tape, or for other such purposes.
Most people with healthy mouths and cosmetic dental issues are good candidates for veneers. To learn more and confirm that veneers are right for you, contact The Ivory Dental Co. today for an appointment with Dr. Sweeney.