So, perhaps you want to replace some teeth with porcelain veneers. After all, they’re highly effective at restoring all sorts of smiles! Even if you are, though, you may want to know more about the veneer process first. Doing so would help confirm if the treatment is right for you. Fortunately, your local Houston dentist is here to explain how everything works. Read on, then, to learn the five crucial steps involved in a veneer procedure.
Consultation Visit
Before anything else, getting veneers starts with a dental consultation. This visit lets you discuss your desired results, medical history, etc., with a treating dentist. Based on its results, the dental team can assess whether implants would meet your needs.
If you get the treatment go-ahead, this appointment also impacts your veneers’ look. A technician, you see, will customize the final product(s) based on your preferences.
Smile Preview
After the consult, your dentist will let you “preview” what veneers could do for you. They could do so through a few methods.
One common way is to give you “trial” veneers made of acrylic. However, you wouldn’t be allowed to wear them out of the office.
Teeth Preparation
Once you and your dentist agree on a plan, your teeth will be prepared for the veneers. This step ensures the new prosthetics won’t stand out or look unnatural.
Tooth prep has various elements. In most cases, however, it mainly consists of polishing and slight enamel removal. Therefore, you really need to go into this step with clear expectations. Removed enamel won’t grow back, so be prepared for that reality.
Crafting the Veneers
Following the prep work, the dentist will take an impression of your smile. This completed mold will then be sent to a dental lab to make your veneers.
Keep in mind that crafting the final veneers may take several weeks. For that reason, you’ll wear a set of provisional ones while you wait. Unlike trial models, these are cemented onto your teeth and let you enjoy daily life.
The Final Placement
You’ll come back to the dentist when the veneers are ready. At that time, the prosthetics will be bonded to your teeth.
Rest assured, the method used to place veneers makes them secure. First, the dentist will etch your teeth and the prosthetic with mild acid. (This “etching” opens up tiny pores in both surfaces.) From there, they’ll apply cement that fits into these pores and unites them.
Ultimately, every step of the veneer process ensures treatment is successful. With that said, go ahead and book a treatment with your dental practice!
About the Author
Dr. Gregory Palmer is a dentist based in Houston, TX, having earned a DMD at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. As such, he’s well-versed in comprehensive dentistry, knowing a variety of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments. At the same time, he also has advanced training in laser dentistry and CEREC same-day technology. Dr. Palmer currently practices at his self-titled clinic and is reachable on his website and by phone at (713)-375-1777.