What are Veneers?
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells crafted from tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front side of your teeth. They are an excellent solution for individuals in Issaquah looking to improve their smile’s aesthetics. Whether your teeth are chipped, stained, or have gaps between them, veneers can provide a natural-looking and attractive solution. They’re made from porcelain or resin composite materials, with porcelain veneers being more resistant to stains and better mimicking the light-reflecting properties of natural teeth. With their ability to resist stains and closely resemble the appearance of your natural tooth enamel, veneers offer a compelling solution to a variety of dental aesthetic concerns.
The Veneers Treatment Process
Initial Consultation
The journey to a radiant smile with veneers begins with an initial consultation with Dr. Alexandra Cristescu at Eastside Family Dentistry. During this meeting, your oral health will be thoroughly examined to ensure you’re a good candidate for veneers. Dr. Cristescu will discuss your aesthetic goals, explain the veneer process in detail, and answer any questions you may have. This session is crucial in determining the best treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and desires.
Preparation
During the preparation stage, Dr. Cristescu will gently reshape the tooth surface, roughly equivalent to the thickness of the veneer to be added. This process might involve the removal of some tooth enamel. Next, an impression or model of your teeth is made and sent to a dental laboratory, where your veneers will be custom-crafted. This process usually takes 1-2 weeks. In the meantime, you may be given temporary veneers to wear.
Bonding
Once your veneers are ready, Dr. Cristescu will temporarily place them on your teeth to examine their fit and color, making any necessary adjustments. Your teeth will be cleaned, polished, and etched (roughened) to allow for a strong bonding process. A special cement is applied to the veneer, which is then placed on your tooth. Once it is in the correct position, a special light beam is used to activate the cement, causing it to harden quickly. The final steps involve removing any excess cement, evaluating your bite, and making any final adjustments as necessary.
The Benefits Of Veneers
Improved Aesthetics
One of the most significant benefits of veneers is the immediate improvement in your smile’s aesthetics. Veneers can correct a variety of cosmetic dental issues, including chipped, stained, or misaligned teeth. They are custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, providing a realistic and attractive appearance.Durability
Veneers are incredibly durable. They are resistant to stains and chipping, meaning they can withstand the rigors of daily life while maintaining their luster. With proper care, porcelain veneers may last up to 15 years, making them a long-term solution for enhancing your smile.Minimal Enamel Removal
Compared to other dental procedures like crowns, veneers require minimal enamel removal. This means that more of your natural tooth structure is preserved, making veneers a less invasive solution for improving your smile. Despite the minimal tooth alteration, the transformation veneers can bring about in your smile is nothing short of dramatic.
