At Tigard Family Dental, we offer some cosmetic and restorative treatments to improve your smile and oral health. One of these treatments, a
dental veneer, is a quick way to a more beautiful smile. This treatment is ideal for patients who want a conservative alternative to more invasive restorations, such as traditional dental crowns.
What Are Dental Veneers?
A dental veneer is a razor-thin, tooth-shaped appliance that we permanently bond to the front surface of a tooth. Veneers are perfect for patients who want to fix the appearance of a chipped, cracked, misshaped, or severely discolored teeth. They can even be used to fill the spaces between gapped teeth.
Most veneers these days are fabricated using porcelain or zirconia. These ceramic materials provide strength, resilience, and esthetics comparable to natural tooth enamel. Ceramic materials can be textured to match enamel and even possess the same light-reflective properties. Veneers can also be fabricated using composite resin, although we typically do not recommend this material. Composite resin is less durable and aesthetically-pleasing than ceramic alternatives.
The Veneer Process
The veneer process is irreversible, so having them placed is an important decision. During a consultation appointment, Dr. Travis Cochell will perform an in-depth examination to determine if you are a suitable candidate for veneer treatment. Placing and designing veneers requires your active participation. Be sure to ask questions, voice concerns, and express your desired results, so we can ensure that veneers are right for you.
Once we have developed an appropriate treatment plan, we can schedule your first procedure. During this appointment, we remove a small amount of enamel from the front of each tooth receiving a veneer. This allows us to accommodate the thickness of the veneer. Next, we will make an impression of each tooth and send it to our state-of-the-art laboratory. There, our technicians will use these impressions to custom-design your veneers. This process usually takes several weeks.
Once the veneers are ready, we can schedule your final appointment. During this appointment, Dr. Travis Cochell will clean and prepare your teeth. Next, we will etch the back of the veneers, which provides a rougher surface and ensures a stronger bond. We then permanently cement the veneers to the front surface of your teeth. To ensure a proper fit, we may need to make minor adjustments and trim excess material.
After the Veneer Procedure
You can care for and maintain your veneers just like your natural teeth, with good oral hygiene practices. Be sure to brush and floss your teeth on a daily basis to avoid potential complications. Even though ceramics are generally stain-resistant, we still recommend limiting your exposure to stain-causing foods and drinks. This can lead to inconsistencies with your natural enamel.
It is important to note that veneers do need to be replaced from time to time. However, veneer treatment is still considered a long-term investment. Most veneers usually last between seven and 15 years. Sometimes a veneer may chip, fracture, or break prematurely. You can reduce your risk by avoiding certain behaviors, such as chewing on pen caps and biting your fingernails. If you do experience a problem, be sure to schedule an appointment with us as soon as possible.
Schedule a Consultation
If you would like to learn more about veneers, call (971) 762-1262, and schedule a consultation appointment today!
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