If you’ve grown tired of seeing stains, chips, cracks, gaps, and other imperfections in your smile, you may be wondering if there’s any solution out there that can help you. Cosmetic dentistry has only become more advanced over the years, so it’s not only easier than ever to get the smile you want, but more accessible as well. If you’re unfamiliar with the veneer process in Uptown Houston, keep reading so you can know exactly what to expect before you schedule an appointment.
Step 1: Breaking Down Your Needs with a Dentist
When you first arrive for your cosmetic consultation, the dentist will ask you questions about your smile goals and what changes you’d like to make for your appearance. Keep in mind that this discussion will be helpful for understanding what you not only want to change about your smile, but what you expect your final appearance to be after treatment is complete. You’ll be encouraged to show examples as well so the dentist can best meet your needs.
Step 2: Visualize Your Future Smile
Technology within dentistry has made it easier than ever to provide a preview of what your smile can look like before you have a single treatment performed, and that’s no different when it comes to veneers. Many offices use complex design software to modify your appearance so you can visualize your smile after a treatment is completed. Another option may include the use of temporary acrylic veneers that can be easily removed prior to receiving permanent restorations.
Step 3: Preparing Teeth for Your Veneers
Once you’re satisfied with the dentist’s treatment plan, you can begin the first stages of your veneer preparation. Depending on the type of veneers you choose, you may need to have your enamel slightly modified so the veneers can sit flush. While traditional veneers require this step, Lumineers and minimal-prep veneers can help you retain as much enamel as possible.
Step 4: Creating Your Restorations
To create your restorations, an impression of your teeth is captured after they are prepared. This mold will be sent to a trusted dental lab who will fabricate the veneers based on your exact specifications. Everything from the shape to the size to the color are considered during this stage of the veneer process. If your teeth have been prepared, you’ll need to wear a set of temporary veneers over the next couple weeks.
Step 5: Bonding Your Veneers
At your second appointment, the temporary veneers will be removed so the permanent restorations can be bonded to your teeth. To do this, the surfaces of your natural enamel will be etched with a mild acidic solution. This keeps the veneers secured for many years to come. From there, a translucent cement is applied and the veneers are attached.
It’s important to know what to expect ahead of any cosmetic treatment, but the best way to be prepared is to speak with a cosmetic dentist directly!
About the Author
Dr. Terri Alani is known widely for her expertise in cosmetic dentistry, exceptional attention to detail, and wide variety of treatments designed to meet the exact needs of her patients. She provides porcelain veneers, Lumineers, minimal-prep veneers, and many other services to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. To schedule a cosmetic consultation, you can contact her through her website.