Every day our teeth face hardships from eating and habits like jaw clenching and tooth grinding (bruxism). Our genes, daily dental care routine and commitment to regular dental check-ups with our Aurora-area dentist also play a role in the condition of the teeth. Because of these many factors, our teeth can suffer damage, decay and wear, requiring professional attention.
What can someone do about crooked or uneven teeth, worn enamel or small chips and cracks?
While porcelain is the usual material from which veneers are made, Aurora general and cosmetic dentists can also use composite resins. Both varieties are made in a laboratory environment or in a dental office, and all are custom made for each patient’s mouth.
How are dental veneers applied?
To properly fit and place veneers on the teeth of the patient, the teeth must first be properly shaped by the dentist. This means that only those with damaged or uneven teeth should consider veneers, since it would be unwise for an individual with fully functioning and aesthetically pleasing teeth to have them ground down. If a patient’s issue is discoloration, teeth whitening or bleaching procedures might be the best treatment option.
After the dentist completes an overall dental examination, the process of dental veneer application requires two additional visits to their dentist’s office over the course of a six-week time span. These appointments may take an hour or so as the dentist or dental technician scrutinizes each tooth and prepares them for the procedure.
A local anaesthetic is often administered during the process of tooth preparation and fitting of the veneer. The teeth involved in the application will be reshaped so the veneer will fit, then a mold will be cast for the permanent veneers to be crafted from, and temporary veneers are applied.
Aurora dentists will usually attach the permanent veneer to the appropriate teeth with dental bonding material during the second visit. Adjustments are made by the dentist before the agent permanently seals. Veneers may need replacement depending on their age, and while the adhesive is very tough and long-lasting, a veneer may need to be re-attached.
Aurora dentists will review the best maintenance techniques to help their patients lengthen the life of their new smile.