Even if you have healthy teeth and gums, cosmetic dental flaws such as discoloration, chips, and spacing can detract from your overall appearance. Porcelain veneers are ultra-thin custom restorations that are bonded to the front surfaces of the teeth. They can camouflage aesthetic imperfections for a beautiful, balanced smile. Dr. Luminita Markham has over 20 years of experience in cosmetic and general dentistry, and she offers veneers for patients at Maidu Dental who are seeking to bring optimal aesthetics to their smiles.
Am I a Candidate?
The first step in determining whether veneers are right for you is to visit Dr. Markham. During an initial consultation, she will assess your oral health, take photographs of your teeth, and listen to your cosmetic concerns. It is important to describe your goals in as much detail as possible. Explain why you are not happy with the appearance of your teeth and what your ideal outcome would be. This will help Dr. Markham design a personalized plan to achieve the smile you desire. You are most likely an excellent candidate for veneers if you have:
- Cracked teeth
- Chipped teeth
- Discoloration or intrinsic staining
- Gaps between the teeth
- Slight misalignment
Because veneers are a cosmetic treatment, it is important to have healthy teeth and gums. If gum disease or extensive decay is present, you must have these issues addressed first so that your treatment can be predictable, successful, and long-lasting.
Benefits of Veneers
Veneers offer numerous cosmetic benefits. Because porcelain reflects light similarly to natural teeth, these restorations are amazingly lifelike. Crafted with your oral anatomy in mind, veneers blend in seamlessly with your surrounding teeth. Additionally, porcelain is stain-resistant. Therefore, you can drink tea, coffee, and red wine without dulling your smile.
When compared to dental crowns, veneers require very little removal of enamel. In fact, in some cases, prep-less veneers can be placed. During your consultation, Dr. Markham can talk with you about options for your specific situation.
Receiving Porcelain Veneers
Having veneers placed is a fairly simple procedure that typically takes two office visits to complete. First, if the tooth requires prepping, Dr. Markham will remove very small amounts of enamel. This will make room for your new restorations. Next, digital impressions will be taken and sent to a lab, where a skilled ceramist will craft your veneers. This process usually takes about two to three weeks.
Once the veneers have been fashioned, Dr. Markham will apply dental etch to the surfaces of the teeth. This acidic solution helps roughen the enamel for superior bonding. After a few moments, the etch will be rinsed off, and your teeth will be thoroughly dried. Next, Dr. Markham will bond the veneers to the front surfaces of the teeth using a high-quality transparent dental cement. She will then check your bite, smooth rough edges, and make any necessary final adjustments. The result is a dramatic, brilliant smile that will last for years to come.
Maintaining Your Veneers
Veneers can be treated just like natural teeth. The best way to maintain them is through proper at-home hygiene and regular dental cleanings.
If you suffer from bruxism – or teeth grinding – Dr. Markham may recommend a custom night guard. This will help protect your new restorations and preserve your oral health.
Learn More about Porcelain Veneers
If you are interested in exploring your cosmetic treatment options, schedule a consultation with Dr. Markham at our Auburn, CA practice. You can contact us online anytime or call our office at (530) 823-8771.