COSMETIC TREATMENTS



Porcelain Veneers (Laminates)

Ask us about Porcelain Veneers

If you have healthy teeth and gums, but you're not satisfied with the way your smile looks, ask about veneers.

 

Porcelain veneers ( or “laminates”) can help brighten front teeth that have permanent stains or discoloration that can't be whitened.  They may be used to correct small gaps between the front teeth, or to fix teeth that are poorly shaped, slightly crooked, or broken.  We may recommend veneers to cover teeth that are chipped, worn or eroded at the gum-line from aggressive brushing.

 

Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells made by a master lab technician that we affixes to the teeth in a simple, comfortable procedure that requires just a few appointments. They are fabricated from glazed porcelain.  This is the best material available, based on durability, stain resistance and a natural look.  But due to the fact they are custom-made by hand,  cost for some is a consideration.

 

How it's done

During your first visit, we will select the color veneers that will best match or blend with your natural teeth.  We then remove a small amount of enamel from the front and sides of the teeth.  This is done so that when the veneers are attached, the teeth won't look or feel bulky. After the enamel is reduced, we take an impression of the prepared teeth.  A model is made from the impressions so that the veneers are compatible with your bite.  The model is sent to a dental laboratory where the veneers are fabricated.  A BIG benefit of this process – Patients can wear a “copy” of the final cosmetic result, prior to their approval, with custom-made “temporaries”!

 

During the next visit, a mild etching solution is applied to the surface of the teeth.  Using a special dental cement, the veneers are carefully set in place.  Once the veneers are attached, a special high-intensity light is used to harden them.

 

Taking care of veneers

Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits are needed to keep your teeth healthy.  We may recommend that you avoid some foods and beverages, such as tea, coffee, red wine, other heavily pigmented foods, and tobacco that can discolor your veneers.

 

Veneers may chip or peel.  Avoid chewing on hard objects, such as pencils or ice.  Like any dental restoration, it is possible for veneers to dislodge over time.   In that case, new ones may be needed.

Fast Facts

 

      Results:      Can fix one imperfect tooth or give you an entirely new smile
 

Advantages:   Long-lasting results–can be considered “permanent” tooth whitening!  In most cases, noninvasive procedure; virtually instant gratification. No long-term orthodontics required.

Disadvantages: Won't last forever.  Potential for tooth sensitivity.  As you age, non-treated teeth will yellow naturally and may have to be bleached in order to match. Not reversible and not permanent.
 
Cost:     Because each veneer is custom-made BY HAND and all-porcelain, they are NOT inexpensive!  Fees range from  $1200 to $2,300 per tooth,  depending on the difficulty of your case, as well as the education and experience of the dentist and ceramist.
 
If cost is a concern, but veneers are your best option, consider GLAMSMILE™  ! 
 
Endurance:   Can last 8 to 12 years.  Any destructive tooth habits like grinding or clenching will shorten their lifespan.

Upkeep: Avoid prescription-grade fluoride, which can stain.   Stop the fingernail biting, which can chip or crack the porcelain.   If you tend to grind your teeth or play a sport such as racquetball, soccer, or basketball, a professional mouth-guard is recommended