Frisco Cosmetic Dentistry-Porcelain Veneers
Cosmetic Smile Make-overs and Porcelain Veneers
Cosmetic veneers (sometimes called porcelain veneers or dental porcelain laminates) are wafer-thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front surface of teeth to improve your appearance. These beautiful restorations are bonded to the front of the teeth changing their color, shape, size, or length. It is possible to get the ideal smile while maintaining a beautifully natural look!
Dental veneers can be made from porcelain or from resin composite materials. Porcelain veneers resist stains better than composite veneers. Porcelain veneers also mimic the luster and light reflecting properties of natural healthy enamel. Resin veneers can be beautiful as well; however, they have a finite longevity due to the properties of the material. With proper maintenance and hygiene, porcelain veneers can have an indefinite lifespan. Porcelain veneers are an investment in your smile that you will absolutely love! You will need to discuss the best choice of veneer material for you with Dr. Maxwell.
Veneers are routinely used to enhance your smile by:
- Teeth that are discolored -- either because of root canal treatment; stains from tetracycline or other drugs, fluorosis or other causes.
- Replacement of large fillings that have discolored the tooth.
- Teeth that are worn down
- Teeth that are chipped or broken
- Teeth that are misaligned, uneven, or irregularly shaped
- Closing spaces between teeth
- Provide strength
What is the smile makeover process?
Treating yourself to a smile makeover is a life transforming process that usually requires a few visits with Dr. Maxwell and his expert team:
Cosmetic evaluation and treatment planning
This first step involves active participation between you and Dr. Maxwell. Explain to Dr. Maxwell what your goals are and what you see in your smile that you would like to improve. Don't worry, Dr. Maxwell and his staff will help with this process! You have to have a trained eye to see the cosmetic subtleties. We will turn your big picture into a precise plan to transform your smile! During this appointment Dr. Maxwell will examine your teeth to make sure dental veneers are appropriate for you and discuss what the procedure will involve. X-rays will be necessary to evaluate the health of your teeth and surrounding tissues. Dr Maxwell and his Hygienist will evaluate your gum health. Cosmetic before photos will then be taken. In addition, models of your existing teeth will be made for evaluation and planning so that Dr. Maxwell and his cosmetic lab can plan for the exact smile that is right for you. A "wax-up" rendition of your new beautiful smile will be created in the lab so that a template can be made for your temporary restorations. Dr. Maxwell may request that you make an appointment to talk about your case before preparation starts so that you can see the transformation on your models. Dr. Maxwell may also use computer imaging to assist in this process.
Preparation
In most cases, Dr. Maxwell will only need to remove about .5 to 1.5 millimeters of enamel from the tooth surface, which is an amount nearly equal to the thickness of the veneer to be added to the tooth surface. Before trimming off the enamel, you and Dr. Maxwell will decide the need for a local anesthetic to numb the area. Dr. Maxwell is excellent at administering the local anesthetic painlessly or with very little discomfort due to the special technique he has developed! Next, Dr. Maxwell will make a template for your temporaries. If your case is extensive, then the cosmetic lab will provide this template. This model in turn constructs your temporary veneers. After your teeth have been prepared, an impression is taken of your dentition and sent to the lab for fabrication of your smile.
Bonding
The lab will take about 2 1/2 weeks to create the final artistry in porcelain. You will then return for the seating of your smile. Before the dental veneer is permanently bonded to your tooth, Dr. Maxwell will temporarily place the restorations on your teeth to examine its fit and color. He will make any minor adjustment to ensure ideal esthetics, fit and function. Next, your teeth and restorations will be conditioned to allow for a strong bonding process. A special cement is applied to the veneer and the veneer is then placed on your tooth. Once properly position on the tooth, Dr. Maxwell will apply a special light to the dental veneer to permanently bond the restoration. The final steps involve removing any excess cement, evaluating your bite and making any final adjustments in the veneer as necessary. Dr. Maxwell may ask you to return for a follow-up visit to evaluate tissues, your bite, and take additional cosmetic photos.