What to Know About Dental Veneers

Veneers for your teeth are defined as thin covers that adhere to your existing teeth. They work to provide a more aesthetically pleasing smile without the need to remove your existing teeth. Veneers can be constructed out of porcelain or composite resin, depending on your preferences.

Porcelain veneers are custom-made and very long-lasting. They have a very natural look to them, and they don't stain very easily. On the other hand, composite resin veneers are constructed of a material that is bonded directly to your tooth. Many times, composite resin veneers can be constructed in one visit, and they cost much less than porcelain veneers. However, it's important to note that composite resin veneers are more prone to damage and will wear out faster than porcelain veneers.

What Are Dental Veneers Used For?

At DiBella Dental Care, Dr. Sandra Echavarria uses veneers as a way to treat a number of different dental problems. These include:

  • Chipped, broken, worn teeth
  • Oddly shaped teeth
  • Misaligned teeth
  • Large gaps between teeth
  • Overall tooth discoloration

How Are Dental Veneers Installed?

The way that your veneers get installed is going to highly depend on the specific material that they're made of. The procedure for porcelain veneers is going to vary slightly from the procedures for composite resin veneers. For this reason, we're going to describe both processes below.

Dental Veneers: Porcelain Veneers

When it comes to porcelain veneers, Dr. Echavarria will start by removing a small amount of enamel from the sides and front of your teeth. This is necessary to help with the overall aesthetic look of your new veneers and ensures that they have enough room to be installed. Next, Dr. Echavarria will make an impression of your prepped teeth as well as determine the best shade for your new teeth.

The impression is sent off to a dental lab where custom-made porcelain veneers are manufactured. This can take several days, and Dr. Echavarria will provide you with temporary veneers until your custom-fit ones are ready. At your second visit, she'll remove the temporary veneers, clean your teeth, and dry-fit your new porcelain veneers. Once all adjustments are made, Dr. Echavarria will adhere your new porcelain veneers to your teeth.

Dental Veneers: Composite Resin Veneers

If you opt for composite resin veneers, the process is a bit simpler and can typically be completed during one appointment. Your teeth will have a small amount of enamel removed on their front and sides. Dr. Echavarria will mix up the composite resin and tint it to your desired tooth shade. Next, she'll carefully sculpt the composite resin to your tooth and use a special light to harden it so that it bonds to your teeth. Lastly, your new composite veneers are smoothed down and polished to provide a more natural-looking smile.

DiBella Dental Care provides veneers for your teeth and other dental procedures for all New Fairfield, CT, residents. Contact our office today to set up your next dental appointment.