Dental Veneers
Milwaukie, OR
Dental veneers are custom-made thin shells that adhere to the front of your existing teeth. They can be made from composite resin or porcelain, each offering distinct advantages. The fitting process is usually quick and painless. Veneers are designed to enhance the appearance of your smile rather than repair major damage or decay. If you are considering dental veneers, contact our team at Sue Walker Dentistry to schedule a consultation with one of our dentists.
What Are The Uses For Veneers?
Dental veneers are primarily used to improve the aesthetics of your smile. Establishing a solid oral hygiene routine before the procedure is important to ensure long-lasting results. Unlike color-stable porcelain veneers, composite veneers may stain or wear after several years. Veneers can also make minor adjustments to teeth alignment, repair chipped teeth, and restore the appearance of heavily stained teeth.
Pros And Cons Of Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers closely resemble the enamel of natural teeth and are fabricated in a dental lab, requiring more than one appointment for installation. Despite being thin, they are durable and can last 10-20 years. Zirconia porcelain veneers provide additional strength for teeth that are slightly damaged but do not need a crown. Porcelain veneers are highly stain-resistant and provide a long-lasting and natural-looking solution for improving your smile.
Procedure For Applying Porcelain Veneers
During your first appointment, the dentist will gently file down the enamel and take an impression of your teeth using putty. This mold is sent to a dental lab to fabricate your veneers, a process that typically takes one to three weeks. Temporary veneers may be provided during this period. When your permanent veneers are ready, you will return for installation. Your teeth will be thoroughly cleaned, and an acid is applied to the inner surface of the veneers and your teeth to ensure strong bonding. A durable dental adhesive secures the veneers in place. Applying veneers is a precise process that can take one to two hours, depending on the number of teeth being treated.
Pros And Cons Of Composite Veneers
Composite veneers offer a simpler and more affordable alternative to porcelain veneers. They can typically be applied in a single appointment. The dentist roughens the enamel with acid, applies a bonding agent, and builds the composite resin in thin layers, hardening each layer with a UV lamp. The tooth is shaped, buffed, and polished to complete the veneer. Composite veneers are often used as temporary solutions until a patient is ready for porcelain veneers. If you are unsure which type of veneer is right for you or are considering another cosmetic option, a consultation with Sue Walker Dentistry can help you explore your options and create a treatment plan that meets your needs. For questions or to schedule a consultation, call us at 971-447-4385.