Unhappy with your teeth? You probably know the feeling of covering your mouth when you laugh or smile, and never showing them in photos. But what if it didn’t have to be that way?
Whether it’s staining, misalignment, or chipped teeth you’re worried about, these problems can be solved with dental veneers. These slithers of porcelain are made-to-measure to exactly fit your teeth and make them look shiny and new. Your dentist will be able to craft them at the exact size, shape and shade to make your smile the best it’s ever been.
So, what’s the process, and where can you get this done? Read on to find out.
Where to Get Veneers
Firstly, you should be visiting your dentist every six months. On one of your routine visits, you can ask whether they offer any cosmetic dentistry services, or if they can recommend a place that does.
Any good cosmetic dentist will be able to offer veneers. Try looking for one local to you by searching “northwest dental centre” online, or where ever is applicable to you. This will bring up a list of reputable clinics in your area. Bear in mind that word of mouth is usually the best way to find good services, so ask your friends and family where they’ve had great dentistry done in the past.
The Process
After you’ve found the place to get your veneers, you should look up the process you’ll be going through. Luckily, it’s a painless procedure that will leave you with amazing results.
Here’s a break-down of what will happen:
- Initial consultation: Your dentist will assess your teeth and whether the procedure is right for what you want to achieve. They may recommend a different procedure if they think you’re not a candidate for veneers. They might also take an x-ray of your mouth and molds of your teeth for a better insight.
- First session: Your teeth will be prepared for the veneers by skimming off the surface layer of enamel on each tooth. Local anesthesia is used. The amount trimmed will be about equal to the thickness the veneer will eventually be, so as not to make your teeth appear bigger (unless that is the aim). Molds are then taken and sent to a dental lab for the staff to create your veneers. This process usually takes between two and four weeks. You may be given temporary veneers in this time, but for most this isn’t necessary.
- Second session: Once your veneers are constructed, you’ll be called in for your bonding session. This is when the veneers will be permanently affixed to your teeth. Again, you may require a local anesthesia. Dental cement is used to “glue” the porcelain layer over each tooth to give it a whiter, smoother surface. Teeth will be cleaned, polished, and the cement cured before leaving you to enjoy your new teeth.
- Follow-up session: Usually, you’ll be called back to your dentist’s office within a few weeks to check whether your gum is adhering to the new veneers and to examine the placement is all correct.
Why Get Veneers?
Veneers are a great solution for those with heavy staining, misshapen or chipped teeth, or simply those who want a brighter smile. They look natural (your dentist will help choose a color that looks natural with your complexion and natural tooth color), are stain-resistant and are permanent. You’ll never have to worry about yellowing teeth again!
If cared for well, veneers are for life. So, if you dislike the appearance of your teeth and regular whitening won’t cut it, why not ask your dentist about cosmetic dentistry? You won’t regret it.