Dental Veneers in Eureka, MO
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are custom tooth-colored shells covering the front surface of your teeth that change the shape, size, color, and overall appearance of your smile. Also called laminates, veneers are made from either porcelain or composite resin material. The process of bonding dental veneers is relatively non-invasive and thus is considered to be a cosmetic dentistry procedure. If you’re seeking to dramatically improve your smile and boost your self-confidence, schedule an appointment at Eureka Dental Group today!
Who Can Get Veneers?
Although dental veneers offer a solution for those who wish to improve their smile, not every patient is an ample candidate. In order to qualify for the dental procedure, you must have good oral hygiene habits that work to prevent tooth decay and gum disease, such as regular brushing and flossing, rinsing with mouthwash, and visiting the dentist for routine professional cleanings. It’s important that your teeth be in the best condition prior to receiving veneers.
Patients with good oral health may receive veneers for any of the following reasons:
- Uneven size teeth
- Tooth discoloration
- Slight crowding
- Chips or breaks
- Worn down teeth
- Gaps and spaces
However, if you currently do not have proper oral hygiene habits, it’s likely that you will be unable to receive veneers. Patients that suffer from chronic conditions such as clenching and grinding are also poor candidates, due to the risk of cracking or wearing down the veneers. Those that have severe crowding should seek orthodontic treatment before the procedure, so that their teeth are in the proper position.
Types of Veneers
Veneers are permanent, conservative solutions to a variety of cosmetic concerns. Although both types of material are reliable and aesthetically pleasing, there are key differences between them.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are the most durable and longest-lasting veneer material, boosting patient confidence for about 8-15 years. Therefore, the risk of damaging or cracking is significantly lower. They rarely injure the gums and surrounding soft structures while drastically improving your smile. Plus, the stain-resistant nature of porcelain allows it to blend seamlessly with your other teeth.
Its smooth, tooth-like texture ensures comfort, and, with proper dental care, little to no plaque accumulates. However, due to its strength and reliability, porcelain is the most expensive option.
Composite Veneers
Made from a resin, the bonding material used to create composite veneers is the same as tooth-colored fillings. Therefore, they aren’t as strong or long-lasting as porcelain. Although they are less expensive and blend well with your surrounding structures, composite veneers are prone to staining over time.
Still durable, composite lasts approximately 5-7 years and can easily be repaired if chipped or broken. Similar to porcelain, when composite veneers are well cared for, minimal plaque builds up and gum tissue is preserved. They are permanent and can improve your smile for years to come.
Benefits of Veneers
Those with minor cosmetic problems experience several benefits from veneers, in addition to their improved confidence and smile. For example, they require little to no maintenance. All you have to do is maintain regular brushing and flossing to keep them in prime condition. Additionally, as a shell covering, veneers help protect your underlying natural teeth.
Since veneers are custom-made for each patient, they are comfortable and shaped as needed by a dentist to ensure the perfect fit. As a result, they’ll both look and feel like natural teeth. Plus, the process of receiving veneers is quicker than most other cosmetic and restorative dentistry procedures, allowing you to flaunt your new smile faster.
Dental Veneers Process
The dental veneer process typically requires three dentist appointments; one for a consultation, and two for the procedure. At your first appointment, our specialized cosmetic dentist, Dr. G’Sell, will examine your teeth to determine whether veneers are right for you. X-rays are taken and impressions of your mouth are made to further assess its current condition. During the next visit, he will prepare your teeth for the veneers by slightly reshaping their surface. To ensure comfort, you may receive a local anesthetic if you wish. Proper veneer color will also be determined.
Then, an impression will be made of the affected teeth and sent to a dental laboratory for custom creation. Temporary placeholders can be applied during the 2-4 week fabrication window. Bonding takes place during your final appointment.
When Dr. G’Sell places the veneers onto the surface of your teeth, he will examine the fit and color, shaping when necessary. Then, to further prepare your teeth for the veneers, he will thoroughly clean and polish them, followed by etching, which roughens the surface to ensure a strong bonding process. Cement is placed onto each veneer and a special light reinforces the bond. Finally, any excess cement is removed and Dr. G’Sell will assess your bite and comfort levels.
A follow-up visit may be required to ensure proper function and placement, but no extensive aftercare is needed. You might be advised to avoid certain stain-inducing foods and beverages, such as tomato sauce and red wine, for the first few weeks following your procedure. Otherwise, continue your good oral hygiene practices as you normally would.
Improve Your Smile with Our Eureka, MO Dentists
Dental veneers are a quick and practical solution to several cosmetic issues. At Eureka Dental Group, it’s our goal to ensure each patient leaves our office with a confident smile. We utilize the best and latest technology to meet your dental needs, and our staff is dedicated to patient comfort and satisfaction.
When you choose Eureka Dental Group, you’ll experience a welcoming environment and a team that provides the utmost care to every member of the family. If you wish to receive dental veneers, schedule an appointment with us today! We look forward to hearing from you.