Veneers are a simple yet versatile cosmetic dentistry treatment. The thin sheets or layers of porcelain are bonded to the front surfaces of the teeth to conceal aesthetic imperfections and create a more beautiful smile.
Successful porcelain veneers treatment depends on the dentist placing the restorations. The technique and technology used to design, craft and place the veneers is extremely important to the end result. Men and women seeking beautiful, long-lasting veneers in Palo Alto or the surrounding Bay Area communities place their trust in Kris Hamamoto D.D.S & Associates.
How Porcelain Veneers Can Rejuvenate Your Smile
You might want to consider having porcelain veneers placed if your teeth are healthy and strong, yet blemished with minor aesthetic flaws. Veneers can accomplish the following objectives:
- Repair small chips or cracks
- Close small spaces between the teeth
- Mask slight crookedness in the teeth
- Hide worn enamel
- Create uniformity in tooth shape and size
- Restore brilliance to teeth that look worn or dull
If you have a tooth that is cosmetically imperfect and weak, damaged or decayed, veneers probably aren’t your best option. It is likely you would benefit from a restorative dentistry option like a dental crown or filling. Our Palo Alto porcelain veneers dentists can evaluate the problematic tooth or teeth and recommend the most suitable solution.
Placement Process
Porcelain veneers usually take about two to three dental appointments to design and deliver. The first step is a consultation with one of our dentists, who will examine your teeth and mouth and inquire about your specific goals. If they determine that veneers are the most appropriate treatment for your needs, they will remove a small amount of natural structure from the affected tooth or teeth to make room for the veneers. Impressions and photographs will be taken of your teeth and mouth and sent to the trusted dental laboratory we work with. The lab will construct the veneers to your exact specifications; careful attention will be paid to making sure the veneers match your surrounding teeth. While the lab is constructing your restorations, we can place temporary veneers to protect your prepared teeth.
Once your permanent veneers are ready, you will return to our office to have the temporary restorations removed and replaced. The final veneers will be placed over the teeth and our dentist will check the fit against your bite. Then, the dentist will cement the veneers to your teeth and make any final adjustments as needed. The last step is to polish the veneers so they look radiant.
Maintaining Porcelain Veneers
Veneers can last for many years with the proper care and attention. They should be brushed and flossed normally, and checked by our dentists every six months. Though porcelain is strong, it is not impenetrable, so you should avoid chewing on shells, ice or other hard objects that could damage the material.
Learn More about Veneers
If you would like more information about porcelain veneers, Palo Alto dentist Kris Hamamoto and her team invite you to book a consultation at our practice. Call or email us today.
