Veneers and Laminate

Veneers and Laminates

When we look at our smiles, many of us can pick out a few things that we would like to change. One of the things that we hear most often from our patients is their desire to hide some of the flaws and imperfections in their teeth. Sometimes it is discoloration, cracking, gaps, or chipped teeth. Many of these patients felt like their only option was to have the tooth completely removed. Fortunately, there is an easier way for you to get the smile of your dreams and still keep your natural teeth!

What are Veneers and Laminates?

Dental veneers are thin coverings for your teeth that look and feel like your natural teeth. Veneers can be made of a variety of different materials, but are most commonly porcelain. Sometimes veneers are referred to as “dental laminates.” These thin strips are attached to the surface of the tooth and offer patients the benefit of hiding the underlying tooth and any imperfections, but it can also add a layer of protection to help maintain your natural smile.

Dr. Randall Perry and Dr. Erin Moore of Family and Cosmetic Dentistry are determined to help you make the right decisions to achieve your perfect smile. We can discuss the possibility of using a porcelain or resin composite veneer and how that might specifically work for you. Call today to schedule an appointment!

The Process

There are two different approaches that can be used to place your veneers. The first utilizes the resin composite. This process can usually be completed in a single appointment, so many patients appreciate the initial convenience of this approach. However, resin veneers are more susceptible to damage such as chipping or cracking and may need more regular maintenance.

The tooth is prepared by removing a small portion of the enamel on the front of the tooth. This allows for the resin veneer to be attached without giving the tooth a bulky feeling or making it project further out of your mouth than the other teeth. Resins come in different colors and our staff will make sure to match your veneer with the natural shade of your teeth so that nobody else knows that you have even had dental work completed.

The second approach is also called the indirect approach. This method generally uses two appointments, but patients are usually more satisfied with the long-term outcome of porcelain veneers. The first appointment is where our staff will shape the tooth or teeth where the veneer is going to be placed. Once the right amount of tooth enamel has been removed, a cast of the tooth or teeth will be taken and sent to a lab. The lab will then create your veneer to specifically match that tooth. This means that you will get a perfect look and feel the first time!

While you wait for your final veneer to be made and delivered, we will fit you with a temporary veneer to help protect the underlying tooth. Temporary veneers are very high quality and it will give you an idea of what the finished product will look like.

Veneers usually take about two weeks to arrive. Once we have received your veneer, you will come back into the office to be given your final fitting. Our staff will make sure that the fit is perfect by placing the veneer on the tooth and then shaping it until it is just right. When we are satisfied with the appearance, an adhesive will be placed on the veneer and then attached to your tooth. The adhesive selected will make the veneer match your existing tooth color.

Overview

If you have been considering getting the perfect smile and think the veneers or laminates may be right for you, contact our offices today. Scheduling a consultation can help to get you the look you want now!