When patients desire a complete smile makeover, we often recommend dental veneers. These address all types of cosmetic issues such as cracks, chips, misalignment, stains, and gaps. The dentist, patient, and dental lab technician all work together to create a smile that looks and feels natural.

Patients who are considering often have lots of questions. Rather than waiting until you get to our office, we wanted to provide answers to some of our most frequently asked questions about dental veneers. Be sure to consider all these things before making your final decision.

1.    What is the process like?

Dental veneers aren’t one-size-fits-all. Each veneer is specifically made for the patient. You, your dentist, and a lab technician will work together to create the picture-perfect smile that you desire. So, whether you need one veneer or ten, the process will likely consist of at least two visits.

During the first visit, the dentist will check to ensure you are a suitable candidate for veneers. Once cleared, the two of you will discuss what you want your new teeth to look like. Next, the dentist will prepare your teeth for the veneers. This requires her to remove a small amount of dental enamel which prohibits the veneers from looking horse-like. The dentist will take a mold of the tooth before placing a temporary veneer. Once the design is created and approved by you, it and the mold are sent to a dental lab technician who will craft the veneers.

At the final appointment, the dentist will make any necessary adjustments to the veneers before cementing them to your teeth. Once they are permanently placed, the procedure is complete!

2.    How long does the entire dental veneer process take?

From the initial consultation to the final placement, patients can expect the entire process to take about four-to-six-weeks. Most of that time is spent waiting on the lab technician to create and deliver the custom veneers.

3.    Are dental veneers permanent?

In short, yes! Dental veneers are permanently cemented in place and are extremely durable. However, they are still susceptible to damage that may require a replacement veneer.

Additionally, once the dental enamel has been removed from the patient’s natural teeth, there’s no going back. Therefore, the patient will always need a dental prosthetic or veneer to protect that tooth.

4.    Do veneers require special care?

Aside from normal oral hygiene and a healthy diet, dental veneers do not require any special care. Because they are so durable, patients are free to eat just like before but should be careful to limit the amount of crunchy foods they eat to avoid chips or cracks in their veneers.

5.    Will dental veneers increase my risk of decay, cavities, or gum disease?

No. Just like with natural teeth, patients should brush their veneers twice a day, floss once a day, and visit the dentist for regular dental cleanings and exams. If these guidelines are abided by, patients shouldn’t worry about developing cavities or gum disease.

Dental Veneers in Grant Park

Designing and placing dental veneers is no easy task, even for dentists. This process should only be completed by an experienced and highly-trained cosmetic dentist like Dr. Abbey J. Lee. If you’d like to know how our team at Smiles for Grant Park can provide the smile you deserve, contact us today at (404) 328-7177 to schedule your initial consultation.