What are veneers?
Dental veneers, or laminates, are ultra-thin porcelain shells made to look exactly like your natural smile. When fitted to the front side of your teeth, they help conceal virtually any cosmetic flaw, including:
- Large or noticeable gaps between teeth
- Chipped teeth or cracked enamel
- Discolored or permanently stained teeth
- Oddly shaped or unevenly worn teeth
Because they offer a faster, easier way to fix multiple minor cosmetic problems all at once, veneers can be an attractive alternative to cosmetic bonding.
How are veneers created?
Veneers are custom-made by a licensed technician in a dental lab. Working from a model provided by Dr. Malakuti, the technician uses special tools, materials, and techniques to create veneers that fit your natural smile with precision.
Getting veneers is a multi-step process that can typically be completed in two visits:
First visit
Your first appointment starts with a consultation to discuss your cosmetic goals, followed by a comprehensive dental exam to help uncover any problematic oral health issues.
Then, if you’re a suitable candidate for veneers, Dr. Malakuti lightly buffs and etches your enamel to accommodate each veneer and prepare the surface of your teeth for bonding.
In most cases, she doesn’t need to remove more than half a millimeter of tooth surface; although most people don’t require a local anesthetic, you can request one if your teeth are particularly sensitive.
After your teeth are prepared, Dr. Malakuti makes a mold, or impression, to send to the lab. Before you go, you’re fitted with temporary veneers to keep your teeth protected until your second appointment.
Second visit
Once your custom veneers arrive from the lab, Dr. Malakuti matches each one to its respective tooth to ensure they fit properly and look beautiful. If the hue of your veneers isn’t quite right, it can be adjusted before they’re bonded to your teeth.
To finish the process, Dr. Malakuti cleanses your teeth with bond-promoting chemicals, secures the veneers to your teeth with dental cement, and uses a special light to help solidify the bond.
How long do veneers last?
Although veneers aren’t meant to be a permanent cosmetic solution, they’re incredibly strong and durable because of how tightly they’re bonded to your teeth.
Porcelain veneers last an average of 10-15 years, but yours can last much, much longer if you maintain good oral health habits, keep up on recommended dental cleanings and exams, avoid using your teeth as tools, and limit staining beverages like tea, coffee, and red wine.
To find out how veneers can transform your smile, call Dr. Malakuti or book an appointment online today.
