What’s the most useful tool in your toolbox? We’ve got a hunch that the most often used tool you have is the one that can accomplish the most things at the same time or in a single step. In the world of cosmetic dentistry, veneers are one of those kinds of tools. Getting dental veneers in NE Calgary can correct the colour, size, shape, spacing and texture of flawed teeth in just a few simple steps. Here’s how it happens.
At a preliminary appointment, the team at your dental clinic in NE Calgary will carefully inspect your teeth and gums and may take x-rays to get a comprehensive understanding of the state of your teeth, gums and jaw. In some cases, a dentist near you may recommend alternatives to porcelain veneers, or recommend that you undergo procedures to address issues revealed in this assessment. For example, if the tooth you’re interested in covering with a veneer is affected by tooth decay or nearby gum disease, your dentist will recommend that those conditions be addressed before a veneer is placed. Because the integrity of your veneers depends on the health of the underlying tooth, dealing with those types of issues before a veneer is placed is essential to your long-term satisfaction.
Assuming that your dentist at Sunridge Landing Dental Care confirms that getting dental veneers near you is the right step to take to accomplish your goals, your dentist will schedule a second appointment (or proceed to these next steps at the same appointment). A thin layer of enamel — approximately half of a millimetre thick — will be removed from the tooth you want to cover with a veneer. Removing that enamel will permit the dentist to bond the veneer to your tooth without adding noticeable bulk to your tooth.
Once any enamel that needs to be removed from your tooth or teeth has been removed, a dentist near you will take impressions of your teeth. The mold bearing those impressions will be sent to a dental laboratory where technicians will prepare veneers specifically for your teeth.
Once your dentist receives your veneers from the dental laboratory, a final appointment will be scheduled to place those veneers. Your dentist will confirm that the veneers fit properly and achieve the goals identified at your initial assessment.
Your dentist will then roughen the surface of the tooth that will receive the veneer before attaching the veneer to the tooth with special dental adhesives. That dental cement will be hardened by exposing it to ultraviolet light. Once the veneer has been bonded in place, your dentist will trim and polish the veneer as required to make sure it blends completely naturally with your own natural teeth.
As excited as you’ll be to wear your new veneers, it’s essential the planning, preparation and consultation steps in this process not be rushed. An investment in time and carefully selecting the right materials, colour, luminosity and texture for your veneers will minimize the risk of any surprises or disappointment. Once you do get your new veneers, you’ll likely face an adjustment period depending on how many veneers you chose and where they’re located. The effect may be dramatic, and it can take some time to get used to. If, after an adjustment period, you’re not satisfied with your veneers, they can in some instances be modified. In extreme situations, they can be replaced entirely, but the removal of enamel will mean you will need to opt for veneers or crowns going forward. For alternatives that don’t involve enamel removal, ask your dentist if you’re a good candidate for no-prep veneers or Lumineers.
When you’re ready to take the next step to perfect the appearance of your teeth and to take the time to go through the process carefully with a caring dentist, make an appointment with a dentist near you.