Porcelain veneers are thin layers of porcelain fixed onto teeth to enhance appearance, and in some cases, to protect the teeth. Veneers allow many patients to achieve a dramatic smile makeover without highly invasive treatments. The results are also durable, lasting 10-30 years.
Veneers typically require 2-3 appointments. The first is a consultation to determine the desired look, and plan the shape of the veneers to achieve it.
During the second visit, the tooth surfaces will be prepared, by removing a very thin layer of enamel, and taking impressions of the teeth. Using these impressions, veneers are fabricated to fit onto the surfaces, either on-site, or at a lab facility.
On the third visit, the dentist will apply a cleaning solution to prepare the tooth surfaces for bonding, and the permanent veneers will be cemented.
A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size. A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations.
Although there are several types of crowns, porcelain (tooth colored crown) are the most popular, because they resemble your natural teeth. They are highly durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color of your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile.
A crown procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown. A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory.
While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown. Once these details are accomplished, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will be checked to ensure you are biting properly.
At your second appointment your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate.
You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown.
For this procedure, a protective barrier is placed over the gum tissue. Then the whitening gel is applied to the teeth and then reapplied every 15 minutes for 2-4 applications. At the end of the appointment all of the gel is rinsed off and the barrier is removed. The teeth will be lighter and brighter. After this procedure it is normal to have an initial increase in cold sensitivity. Whitening gel enables us to safely lighten and brighten the teeth several shades in one appointment!