In times past, the only way to correct a minor misalignment was to wear metal braces. Now, patients have the option of choosing Invisalign clear aligners, but like braces, the procedure can take several months to realign a smile. Thankfully, there is now a way to achieve the look you’ve always wanted in just two to three visits – with porcelain veneers in Peabody. Continue reading to learn how the procedure works!
What are Porcelain Veneers?
Crafted from the finest ceramics available, veneers are thin shells that fit directly over the front-facing teeth. In doing so, they help to mask slight crookedness, minor gaps, misalignment and stubborn stains that can’t be removed with teeth whitening.
How the Procedure Works
Before treatment gets underway, the dentist will perform a careful assessment of your teeth and gums to make sure there are no issues that need to be treated beforehand. After you’re given a clean bill of oral health, the dentist will use a special shade guide to find the perfect color to match your other teeth.
Once the preliminary steps are completed, the following takes place:
- Enamel removal – To prepare your teeth for veneers, a thin layer of enamel is removed. This will allow for an even smile line.
- Bite impressions – Once your teeth are prepped, digital bite impressions are taken and sent to a trusted lab.
- Fabrication – The in-network lab then precision crafts the veneers in accordance with the dentist’s specifications.
- Permanent placement – It usually takes around two weeks for the veneers to return from the lab. At that time, the dentist will permanently bond them into position. If needed, they will be shaped to match the size and contour of the other teeth.
In only a few visits, you’ll have a smile that looks like it took months or even years to achieve.
Are There any Limitations to Porcelain Veneers?
It should be noted that the primary purpose of veneers is to mask smile imperfections and minor orthodontic flaws. For more acute bite issues, Invisalign or traditional braces may be needed.
How to Maintain Your Smile
If you decide to have veneers placed, you want your smile to last as long as possible. To accomplish that, you’ll need to maintain a consistent dental hygiene regimen, which should include brushing and flossing at least two times a day. It’s also important to monitor the types of foods you consume, limiting your intake of hard nuts, candy and ice. You should also avoid using your teeth as tools to pry open packages or gnaw on pencils. Doing so could damage your veneers and maybe cause a dental emergency.
As long as you take the proper steps, though, your veneers could last up to 15 years. To find out for sure if this is the best form of cosmetic dentistry in Peabody to meet your smile needs, you’ll need to reach out to a local dentist to schedule a visit. This will eliminate any guessing and allow you to confidently move forward with achieving the smile of your dreams!
About the Author
Dr. Spiro Saati earned his dental degree from the Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine. To stay abreast of the latest changes in dentistry, he has completed several hours of continuing education throughout the years. Additionally, Dr. Saati maintains professional affiliation with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and other organizations. He helps patients experience smile bliss by placing porcelain veneers at his private practice, and he can be reached for more information or to schedule a visit through his website.