Kingston TN
Veneers are a cosmetic dental procedure that hides minor tooth imperfects like gapped, crooked, or permanently discolored teeth. This procedure can improve your smile without having to undergo extensive treatments. These porcelain shells are ultra-thin and crafted to look completely natural and fit directly over your existing teeth. There are many reasons why patients opt for veneers to enhance their smile. But check out these three things you should know before getting veneers.
The process
Getting veneers requires two visits to the dentist and several weeks between those appointments. The first visit consists of preparing your teeth for the veneers. The dentist shaves a minimal amount of tooth structure to make room for the veneers. Adding veneers directly on top of your teeth without properly preparing the tooth structure may result in the veneers looking bulky and unnatural. Because of this step, veneers are permanent.
Next, we take impressions or digital scans of your teeth that are used by a dental lab to handcraft your veneers. Before leaving our office, we place temporary veneers on your teeth to protect them while your permanent veneers are being made. You’ll return to our office two to three weeks later to receive your permanent veneers.
At the last visit, our cosmetic dentist in Kingston removes your temporaries and then ensures that the permanent veneers fit well, including how it feels when you bite your teeth together. Then, the veneers are permanently bonded to your teeth. Final bite adjustments can be made before you are on your way.
Caring for your veneers
After the procedure, your teeth and gums may feel sore for a few days. This is normal and should subside on its own or you can take over-the-counter pain relievers to help. It’s essential to care for your veneers just like natural teeth by brushing them twice a day and flossing daily. You should avoid chewing on hard foods that could crack or chip your veneers. Otherwise, foods like carrots, apples, and bread are safe to eat. Veneers can last 10-20 years, although the better you take care of your veneers, the longer they will last.
Veneers aren’t right for everyone
Veneers can be a great investment to improve your smile, but they aren’t for everyone. While insurance may or may not help cover the cost of veneers, many patients are on the hook for some or all of the cost. Additionally, if you clench and grind your teeth at night, you could damage your veneers. While that does not mean you cannot get veneers, it just means you should prepare for additional costs like a custom nightguard to protect your teeth and veneers while you sleep. You should also be ready to commit to good oral hygiene because neglecting your smile could quickly cause your veneers to go to waste.
Veneers in Kingsport, Tennessee
Are you ready to upgrade your smile and hide those tooth imperfections with veneers? Contact LakeView Dental Arts today by calling (865) 248-2199 and schedule a consultation to begin your new journey to a perfect looking smile.
