Dental VeneersScottsdale, AZ
For some issues, a new smile begins with dental veneers. Tooth damage such as chips, cracks, or fractures can turn any smile into an unappealing one. If these flaws are on front teeth, it can be especially embarrassing to you because they will be readily noticeable to other people. You should not have to worry about what other people think of your appearance any longer.
Dental veneers can also protect a tooth from further damage. If a tooth is chipped, for example, biting into something hard or suffering a blow to the mouth could break the tooth or even knock it out. Your dentist can explain the process of getting veneers so that you can decide whether this treatment is right for you.
Be happy about the way your teeth look again. Call our office today and schedule an appointment so that you can start your smile makeover.
How teeth suffer damage
Teeth consist of an enamel layer and a dentin layer. Enamel is the strongest substance in the body. Though teeth can withstand a lot of wear and tear and great force, they are not indestructible. It is possible to damage a tooth. Teeth can crack or chip because of poor habits as well. Consider these issues and how they can lead to cosmetic problems with a tooth:
- A blow to the face from an object
- Biting into something hard such as a fork or spoon
- Using teeth to open packages or trim fingernails
- Falling hard to the ground face-first
- Failing to brush and floss daily, which can weaken the enamel and leave the teeth prone to decay
An overview of veneers
Usually made of porcelain, a dental veneer is a thin shell that attaches to the front of a tooth. The dentist can fabricate the veneer to match the shape, color, and size of the surrounding natural teeth. Veneers can also be useful for patients who have misshapen or abnormally large or small teeth. Because the dentist can make a veneer of any color, it is sometimes an alternative to teeth-whitening treatments. Veneers are stain-resistant and can withstand chewing and normal mouth functions.
Other common cosmetic dentistry treatments for tooth damage
Dental veneers are a common way to cover up chips and cracks in teeth. However, the dentist may first consider other ways of repairing and protecting the affected tooth. Crowns are artificial teeth that the dentist places over the top of a weak or damaged tooth. It is natural-looking in size, shape, and color. The crown can restore a smile and also helps to stabilize a tooth and prevent additional problems.
If a tooth has suffered severe trauma, the dentist might not be able to save it. In these situations, the dentist may extract it and replace it. For tooth replacements, bridges, implants, or dentures are available. Implants are made of titanium and last the longest — sometimes, throughout a person’s lifetime. Dentures are more cost-effective but tend to slip. Bridges usually last up to 10 years before needing a replacement.
When dental veneers make sense
People who are confused about what option is right to repair or replace a tooth should consult the dentist. The dentist has the knowledge and training to know what will work most effectively for the patient. Veneers are a wise option when the damage is to a front tooth. The veneer will cover the crack or chip and offer a natural-looking solution. A person may also want to have veneers instead of a crown when looking for a less invasive procedure. Getting veneers requires less removal of the natural tooth.
If the patient and dentist decide that dental veneers are the right option, the dentist will take X-rays of the patient’s affected tooth. At a subsequent appointment, once the dentist has used the X-rays to custom-make a veneer, the patient’s mouth is numbed to get it ready for the procedure. The dentist must then reshape the tooth so the veneer will fit. The dentist also makes sure the veneer is the right color and will fit properly and comfortably.
Next, the dentist will remove a small portion of the enamel. The tooth is then cleaned and polished. The dentist etches the tooth to ensure successfully bonding. This makes the tooth rough and allows for the bond to be stronger.
To work effectively and last for years to come, dental veneers require the right bond. The dentist will place cement on the tooth and attach the veneer to it. Within the cement are chemicals that will activate the bonding process. The dentist places a light over the veneer to start this procedure. This hardens the cement quickly to ensure that the veneer is firmly in place.
With a veneer in place, another person cannot detect that the individual has a damaged tooth. This solution restores the smile and makes the person’s appearance more aesthetically pleasing. Veneers are not hard on gums either. Another advantage of having a veneer is that it allows the patient to chew once again and not risk breaking a chipped tooth.
Veneers will not last forever, especially when the patient is not careful. With strict attention, veneers can last at least seven years and as long as 15 or more. While the wearer can start eating a lot of foods, it is wise to avoid some hard items. The patient should continue to brush the veneer and floss the natural teeth around it. It is good to visit the dentist regularly so that the dentist can check on whether the veneer is working effectively.
It is time to welcome a new smile
Chips and cracks can be annoying. Tooth misalignments and stained teeth can cause you to feel embarrassed. Dental veneers can solve all of these problems and concerns. Call your dentist today and talk about whether veneers will help with your needs. The dentist will examine you and determine the right steps. Veneers are natural-looking and will help you achieve the appearance you have been wanting.
Contact Us
Sonoran Desert Dentistry is located at
9304 E Raintree Dr. Suite 100
Scottsdale,
AZ
85260
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