• Veneers / Lumineers

  • What is a veneer?

    Veneers are a dental procedure in which a covering is placed over the front of the tooth. Veneers can be used to dramatically enhance a smile with often times very little tooth structure removed. The procedure can be direct or indirect.

    The direct technique usually involves placing composite resin on the outside of the tooth. This method is usually referred to as bonding and is completed usually in one office appointment.

    The indirect technique allows a certified dental laboratory technician to create beautiful thin porcelain facings to cover over the prepared tooth/teeth. Our iTero digital impressions allow for an accurate fit. The veneers are incredibly strong when bonded to the underlying tooth and typically last longer than composite resin veneers.

    Porcelain Veneers

    Since a porcelain veneer is specially made by a dental lab, the entire process may take longer than that of a composite resin veneer. They are, however, very strong and not easily stained.

    To place your porcelain veneer, the dentist usually treats the front and sides of your tooth to remove a little enamel so there is room for your veneer to fit and look natural. Once any necessary adjustments have been made by the dentist, your custom veneer is then bonded to your tooth. If need be, the dentist can make some alterations during future appointments.

    Composite Resin Veneers

    Like porcelain veneers, composite resin veneers are thin coverings for your teeth, but the materials, process, and durability are different.

    Since the dentist uses composite resin materials to sculpt and bond your veneer in the office, the whole process may be done in as little as one visit.

    To prepare your tooth, usually less enamel is needed to be removed than when placing a porcelain veneer. It is hardened and bonded using a special light and then polished to resemble your surrounding teeth.

    Though they generally are not as strong as porcelain veneers, composite resin veneers can be quickly repaired if damaged.

    How do I take care of my veneers?

    With your new veneers in place, you’ll want to take good care of them and your own teeth to ensure your smile keeps on looking great for years to come.

    Diet

    Avoid foods that can permanently stain or damage your smile. Just chewing on hard foods or items - like ice, pens, and pencils - can greatly harm your veneers and teeth. Once they are damaged, stained, or unintentionally altered in any other way, your veneers might stand out and not look as natural.

    Oral Hygiene

    To keep your teeth healthy and clean, the American Dental Association recommends that you brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day. And flossing should be done daily to remove bacteria and plaque that can cause your teeth to decay. Dirty and decaying teeth can stand out from your teeth with veneers and may cause unwanted attention.

    Dental Visits

    It is important to see the dentist to make sure your veneer is placed right and withstanding your normal life. Adjustments that only the dentist can do may need to be made to your veneer.

    How do I know if I need veneers?

    If you are unhappy with the look of your smile or worried that a crack in a tooth may get worse, veneers may be a good option for you. Since veneers are not right for all patients, you should make an appointment with a dentist to review your oral health and dental options. Be sure to mention your specific expectations and desired results.

    Dr. Soni’s office is nearby in Shelby Township, MI and her staff is ready to find a time that works for you to come in. Call (586) 566-3880 to schedule an appointment.

    Let Dr. Soni work with you to find the solution that is best for your smile!