A dental veneer is a very thin shell-like prosthetic that is placed on the front surface of the teeth. They are customized to mimic the natural teeth in terms of size, color, and shape. Veneers are made from porcelain or composite resin and are bonded to the teeth's surface using dental adhesives.
What Are the Uses of Dental Veneers?
- Veneers can be used to close gaps between teeth.
- They can be used to enhance the appearance of chipped, cracked, misshapen, or discolored teeth.
- They can be used to cover naturally yellow teeth.
- Veneers can be used to hide minor dental imperfections such as cracks and chips.
- They can be used to close the space between teeth that can be left after orthodontic treatment.
The Procedure Involved in Placing a Veneer
When you visit our dental practice for the first consultation, we will conduct a thorough screening process and determine your need for veneers. We will also analyze your oral condition and decide whether a veneer is appropriate or not.
During the initial screening, we will also take precise digital impressions of your tooth. The data obtained is sent to a dental laboratory where it will be used to fabricate the veneer. The veneer will be fabricated in a few days, after which we will schedule another appointment for their placement.
When you visit us for the second consultation, we will clean your tooth and roughen its surface using an etching solution. This allows for better adhesion of the veneer with the tooth. The veneer will then be bonded to the prepared tooth with dental adhesives after which we will check its fit and shape. If necessary, we may make minor changes and then permanently bond it to your tooth surface.
What Are Dental Laminates?
Dental laminates are similar to veneers as they are also fabricated from porcelain or resin composite resin material. They are called so because they function like a laminate that protects the tooth from damage. Like dental veneers, they are also custom-fabricated according to one's requirement and also provide aesthetic benefits by enhancing one's smile and improving their appearance. The difference is laminates are thinner and usually do not require the removal of a layer of enamel before being affixed.
What Are the Uses of Dental Laminates?
Dental laminates can be used for several purposes such as:
- They can be used to treat and cover minor damage caused by external trauma or accidental impact with objects like rings or keys in your mouth.
- They help restore chipped or cracked teeth back to their normal appearance and functionality.
- They can be used to correct minor misalignment issues caused by orthodontic treatment such as braces or Invisalign treatment.
- They can also be used as restoratives for decayed or damaged teeth.
- Laminates help cover stains caused by excessive consumption of colored foods and beverages like tea, coffee, red wine etc., or naturally occurring discoloration of teeth due to any reason such as hormonal imbalance during pregnancy or aging process in general.
- Laminates improve one's smile appearance by covering up and eliminating minor flaws caused by cracks or chips on the tooth's surface.
Reach out to our dental practice in Walnut Creek, CA, to have a consultation with our dentist. Call our Dentist Walnut Creek CA at (925) 937-2273 or schedule an online consultation, and we'll guide you further.