Porcelain Veneers: A Versatile Cosmetic Treatment Option

veneers TulsaOur teeth are a very prominent feature that we display every day in conversation, dining in public, or whenever we smile or laugh. If you are unhappy with the appearance of your teeth, our cosmetic dentist can upgrade your smile with porcelain veneers. This process can be completed in a few dental visits.

What Are Porcelain Veneers?

Veneers are very thin shells that are made to be bonded to the front of teeth requiring enhancement. They can resolve many dental maladies like deep, intrinsic dental stains; misshapen or crooked teeth; or poorly spaced dentition. With veneers you have the capability to change the color, shape, size, or length of teeth being treated, and they can be used to enhance one or multiple teeth.

A consultation with our cosmetic dentist will provide you with all the information you need to decide if this treatment option is right for you.

The Veneer Process 

Once you and your dentist have determined which teeth should be treated, the process can commence. As your dentist will be removing a small amount of enamel from the front of teeth receiving veneers, this procedure is considered a permanent option.

Before getting started, the area being treated will likely be anesthetized. Enamel will be removed from teeth being prepped for veneers, and impressions will be taken. The impressions will be sent to the dental lab where the veneers will be made; temporaries will be applied to protect prepared teeth until your permanent veneers are ready to be affixed.

When veneers are ready to be bonded, they will be tried in for fit and appearance. Our cosmetic dentist can make minor adjustments, if needed.

Teeth will be thoroughly cleaned and an etching material will be applied to roughen the surface; this step is needed to help facilitate the strongest bond possible. Once the veneer has been cemented into place, a curing light or laser is used to harden the cement.

Caring for veneer treated teeth is the same as what is done for all teeth; brush and floss daily, and visit our team at Howl Dental as recommended for cleanings and exams. Although porcelain is stain resistant, avoiding or limiting foods and beverages known to stain may be recommended.