If you’re unhappy with your smile, don’t assume that you need a complete-mouth transformation. Sometimes, changing the shape or shade of one or several teeth is enough to create the drop-dead gorgeous smile you dream of.
Dr. William Munn uses veneers to conceal small aesthetic flaws or minimal structural damage and to enhance uniformity between the teeth.
What Is a Veneer?
A veneer is a thin layer of material (usually porcelain) that covers the front surface of a tooth. Veneers are usually meant for cosmetic purposes, as they cover up minor flaws such as stains, chips, cracks or uneven edges. They can also create the illusion of longer or wider teeth. For instance, if you have one or two teeth that are abnormally short or narrow, veneering them will improve the uniformity of your smile.
Although veneers are used cosmetically, they are tough and durable. Porcelain is a strong material and can withstand the forces of biting and chewing. You don’t have to worry about a veneer chipping or cracking as you eat (as long as you avoid biting into extremely hard objects like ice or nutshells).
How Is a Veneer Placed?
The process of placing veneers is usually very straightforward.
Once you and Dr. Munn have decided on the number and type of veneers you need, the first step is to prepare the tooth or teeth receiving the restoration(s). The dentist will carefully remove a small amount of tooth enamel, enabling the veneers to slip over the surfaces of your teeth. Once your teeth are prepped, he will take impressions. Our team will send the information to the dental laboratory we partner with, along with specifications for the porcelain color that matches the color of your surrounding teeth. While you wait for the lab to create your custom veneers, Dr. Munn can fit temporary veneers in their place.
Wearing temporary veneers allows you the opportunity to “try out” the restorations. You may have feedback that improves the fit or feel of your final restorations.
Once your custom veneers are ready, you will schedule your next appointment. Dr. Munn will remove the temporaries and fit the custom veneers into your mouth. If you are pleased with their look, fit and feel, he will cement them to your teeth. A final polish will help them gleam like natural, healthy teeth.
Caring for Veneers
Our patients appreciate that veneers are generally low maintenance. Aside from brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily, you do not need to commit a lot of extra time to caring for your veneers.
We recommend that you see our team at least twice a year for dental cleanings and exams. Dr. Munn will check the integrity of your veneers and ensure that they are still completely intact.
Before you commit to veneers, understand that veneered teeth will always need to be covered by some sort of restoration, whether it’s a veneer or another option, like a crown. Because of the veneer prep, the tooth will be slightly shaved down, requiring coverage of some sort.
Learn More about Veneers
For more information about veneers and their common uses, please reach out to our team. Call or send our Sandston office an email today!
