Porcelain Veneers

Cosmetic dentistry is transforming lives through complete smile makeovers, and porcelain veneers lead the list of aesthetic treatments as a wildly popular procedure.

There are many benefits of porcelain veneers.  They are extremely natural looking because porcelain and tooth enamel are both white and translucent.  They both react to the light in similar ways.  The light that enters both materials gets reflected back off the layer beneath them.  In the case of porcelain, that’s the dental cement that attaches them.  In the case of tooth enamel, it’s the yellowish dentin layer below the enamel.  The result is a completely natural looking smile.

Porcelain veneers are also exceptionally stain-resistant.  Since porcelain is a ceramic, stain-producing products roll right off the surface, just like glass.  Veneers made of porcelain are naturally stain resistant, even for those who can’t give up their daily trip to Starbucks or their daily glass of red wine with dinner.

If you’re considering porcelain veneers for a new smile, here’s what you can expect . . .

The First Appointment
You will need to schedule an hour or two for your initial appointment, and you may want to take photos or magazine clippings to show us the kind of smile you prefer.  After a thorough examination to assess your oral health and existing dentition, we will discuss with you the kind of smile you envision.  Be prepared to discuss the color and shape of your ideal smile at this appointment.

We will take notes and photos of the shade of your teeth, your facial features, and measurements of your face.   We’ll consider your skin tone and facial symmetry when designing your veneers.  If you have questions about your veneers or the procedure, we will be happy to give comprehensive answers.  You may want to see our portfolio or inquire about digital imaging, which is software that manipulates a photo to predict what you will look like after your smile makeover.

Tooth Preparation
Often during the first appointment, we will gently buff your teeth to remove 1 to 2 mm of enamel in preparation for your new veneers.  Tooth reduction will allow the veneers to lie flat, in line with surrounding teeth.  Reshaping of teeth may also be required to create the look you want.

We will take an impression of your mouth to send to the lab.  Before you leave the dental chair, temporary veneers will be placed.  Your teeth may feel sensitive until the permanent veneers are placed.

Behind the Scenes

After your first appointment, we will order your custom fabricated veneers from a dental lab.  A talented ceramist will handcraft the porcelain veneers from durable materials that look and function like natural dentition.  The information we provide the lab will ensure that you receive veneers that will create a smile that complements your appearance.  The lab will then ship your veneers to our dental office.

Veneer Placement
Local anesthetic may be administered to ensure your complete comfort during veneer placement.  We will remove the temporary veneers and check the fit of your permanent veneers.  You can look at the shape, color, and fit before they are attached.  If adjustments need to be made, you should tell us at this time.  Veneers cannot be altered once in place.

If all is well, we will permanently bond the new veneers to the front surface of your teeth.  First, we will apply a mild acidic solution to clean the surface of your teeth, then we will bond the veneers in place.  A small light will cure the bonding material.  We will make sure that the veneers allow adequate flossing space.

Your New Smile
In as few as two dental visits, you can enjoy a completely new smile!  If you’re considering a smile makeover, call our Bethesda dental office for a complementary consultation.  A few veneers may change your life.

Your Smile is Your Greatest Asset!

If you’re ready to experience total comfort and achieve optimal oral health and beauty, call Bethesda Sedation Dentistry today or schedule an appointment online. We will give your smile new life! Dr. Deb Klotz and Dr. Rob Schlossberg and our dream team proudly serve residents of Bethesda, Potomac, Rockville, Washington DC, Northern Virginia, and beyond.

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