Porcelain Veneers

A New Reason to Smile

If you're concerned about chipped, stained, discolored, unevenly spaced, or even slightly crooked front teeth, porcelain veneers can successfully change them into to a natural, pleasing smile. The three-step procedure simply involves bonding thin, shell-like coverings to the problem teeth, thereby creating a more attractive color, shape or size. In fact, because they're so natural looking and enable us to conserve the original teeth, we often recommend veneers as a long-lasting, stain-resistant alternative to crowns.

Considering the Outcome

To help you determine if veneers are right for you, Dr. Weygandt will carefully evaluate your specific situation, listening to you explain the exact changes you have in mind. Then he'll help you visualize your end result. First, by showing you photos of similar case outcomes. Also, he'll obtain an impression of your mouth and make a "diagnostic wax up", providing you with a three-dimensional representation of your expected results. Finally, he may also use a computer enhancement program to provide you with several options prior to performing the actual procedure.

Preparing the Teeth

Once the two of you have determined a specific course of action, Dr. Weygandt will gently prepare your teeth for the veneers-- buffing or filing approximately one half of a millimeter from the surface of each recipient tooth. Very rarely, this step requires a local anesthetic. He'll then take a mold or impression of your teeth and send it to an expert dental laboratory to produce your custom-fit veneers.

Applying the Veneers

Once your veneers are designed, Dr. Weygandt will carefully test their fit and color by applying them temporarily with water or glycerine. When you're both completely happy with their compatibility, look, feel, and fit, he'll permanently affix them to your teeth with a special dental cement. Finally, he'll apply a visible light beam to activate the cement's hardening agent, creating an enduring, beautiful finished product.

Of course, you'll need to clean and floss your new smile daily, as well as visiting our office regularly for professional care and maintenance. And as a protection of this new investment, you may also want to consider a night-guard to prevent any accidental gritting or grinding pressure while you sleep.

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