If you're dissatisfied with the appearance of your teeth, whether due to chips, stains, or misshapenness, veneers offer a transformative solution to rejuvenate your smile.

A great smile can have a significant impact on your overall look and self-confidence. At our practice, we provide a comprehensive range of cosmetic dentistry treatments aimed at creating the confident smile you've always desired. Our process begins with a detailed smile assessment, where we discuss your preferences and concerns regarding your smile. Once we have a clear understanding, we present treatment options that can help you achieve a more natural, healthy, and youthful-looking smile.

Understanding Dental Veneers:

Dental veneers are a conservative approach to restorations. They consist of thin porcelain strips that cover the front surface of your teeth. Porcelain material is chosen for veneers because it can be color-matched to perfectly blend with your natural teeth, creating a seamless and natural appearance. Unlike dental crowns that cover the entire tooth, veneers require minimal enamel removal, preserving most of your original tooth structure. Veneers serve as a "new face" for your tooth, making them essential tools in cosmetic dentistry due to their minimally invasive nature.

The process of obtaining veneers typically involves two appointments. During the first appointment, your tooth is prepared to receive the veneer. A few weeks later, the veneer is permanently attached to your tooth.

Procedure Overview:

• During the dental veneer procedure, the dentist gently removes a thin layer of enamel from the front surface of your tooth, typically less than one millimeter in thickness. Depending on the extent of enamel removal required, local anesthesia may not be necessary. To ensure a better bond with the outer tooth structure, the dentist aims to preserve as much natural tooth as possible. This is achieved by using a dental bur, a rotating device that gently shaves the tooth's surface.
• Following the enamel reshaping, an impression or mold of your teeth is taken. This mold is sent to a dental lab, where a customized veneer is crafted to fit your smile comfortably. To expose more of the tooth for the impression, a small retraction cord may be used to temporarily move the gums away. Once the impression is completed, the gum line reverts to its original position, ensuring a natural and harmonious look. A tray filled with paste is then used to make a mold of your teeth, which sets over a few minutes.
• Once the mold is ready, any necessary adjustments are made, and it is sent to the dental lab. It typically takes a couple of weeks to receive the permanent veneer. In some cases, a temporary veneer may be provided to cover the prepared tooth, particularly when a significant amount of enamel is removed, making the tooth more sensitive or prone to damage. However, temporary veneers are not always required.
• During your final appointment, the personalized veneer is attached to your tooth. The dentist may make additional adjustments to ensure the veneer looks and feels optimal. If you have any concerns about the appearance or feel of your smile at this stage, please communicate them to us so that we can ensure your satisfaction.
• Once any necessary trimming and refitting are completed, the dentist applies bonding cement to your tooth and secures the veneer in place. A special blue light is used to harden the cement and secure the veneer further. After a final check to ensure a snug and comfortable fit, you're ready to go!

You'll get clear guidance on how to maintain your veneer, including a list of foods to steer clear of. If you have a habit of teeth grinding during sleep, wearing a night guard might be recommended to protect your veneers and prevent potential damage. Following these instructions and cautions will help extend your veneer's life, which can exceed ten years.

Conclusion:

Discover the amazing impact of veneers at our Lake Forest, CA office. We focus on keeping your natural teeth intact, ensuring a confident smile. Our careful process offers a chance to refresh your look and boost your confidence. Call 949-787-1733 to start the journey to a bright, authentic smile. Contact us today to learn how veneers can enhance your smile's appeal.