Have you ever wondered why so many Hollywood stars have seemingly flawless teeth? You might be relieved to read that they weren’t all born with them. Porcelain veneers are the open secret behind the perfect smiles of the stars, and they are available at your local dentist’s office. If you’ve been thinking about getting them, you’d probably like to know how the procedure works. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting porcelain veneers.
Step One: Planning Treatment
The first step to getting porcelain veneers is understanding the patient’s goals for the treatment. Some people want their teeth to appear completely natural while others wish to have a flashy super-white smile. You should discuss with your dentist what issues you intend to correct and what you want your teeth to look like. You might want to bring photos of smiles you like or even of your smile when you were younger.
Once your dentist understands your goals, they will model the intended results of the procedure for you to approve. Once you agree to a design, the procedure can move forward.
Step Two: Preparing the Teeth
Porcelain veneers are thin shells that mimic the appearance and function of real teeth, and they are designed to be worn by the teeth being treated. To prepare a tooth for a veneer, your dentist will shave a tiny amount of enamel from its surface. Afterward, they will take bite impressions of your mouth, which will be sent to a dental laboratory. Your dentist will then adhere temporary veneers to your teeth so you can get used to wearing them before you receive your permanent set. You will be sent home until your new veneers are ready to be placed.
Step Three: Manufacturing the Veneers
A skilled laboratory technician will use your dental impressions and specifications provided by your dentist to manufacture a unique set of veneers for your teeth. This will probably take two weeks to complete, and when your dentist receives the completed product, they will call you in for your second appointment.
Step Four: Placing the Permanent Set
At your second appointment, your dentist will remove your temporary set and cement your permanent veneers into place. You will be sent home afterward to enjoy your new smile, and you may be scheduled for follow-up appointments later. With proper care, your veneers can last between ten and thirty years.
About the Author
Dr. Alberto J. Lamberti earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine at the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and also completed a Fellowship in Implant Dentistry there. He is a member of the American Dental Association and the Florida Dental Association. His office in Boca Raton, FL offers general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry such as porcelain veneers. To schedule a consultation for porcelain veneers, contact his office online or dial (561) 338-7535.