Comprehensive Guide to Dental Veneers

Have you been wanting to improve your smile but aren't sure where to start? Dental veneers may be the perfect cosmetic enhancement for you. At Sarko Dental Associates in Scottsdale, we specialize in creating custom dental veneers that transform smiles.

In this comprehensive guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about veneers so you can decide if they are right for you.

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin that are bonded to the front surface of teeth. Veneers are custom-made for each patient and are used to:

• Close gaps between teeth

• Fix chips or cracks

• Correct crooked or misshapen teeth

• Whiten stained or discolored teeth

• Reshape teeth that are irregularly sized or shaped

Veneers provide a quick and dramatic smile makeover that can boost your confidence. When bonded to your teeth, veneers look and function just like your natural teeth. You can eat and drink normally without worrying about your veneers coming loose or falling off.

Benefits of Dental Veneers

There are many benefits to choosing dental veneers. Some veneer benefits include:

• Veneers correct multiple flaws at once. If you have gaps, stains, chips, or other issues, veneers can fix them all in one treatment.

• The transformation is quick. You'll only need 2 to 3 appointments to complete the veneer process.

• Veneers brighten your smile. Stained or dull teeth are no match against the pearly white shade of porcelain veneers.

• Veneers are natural looking and long lasting. With proper care, they can last 10-15 years or more.

• There is minimal tooth reduction. Only 0.3-0.5mm of enamel needs to be removed for most veneer placements.

• Veneers can close gaps between teeth, eliminating the need for braces in some cases. This can help patients who didn't get orthodontics as a teen.

• Veneers restore worn or shortened teeth. If your teeth are worn down from grinding or acid reflux, veneers can rebuild the structure.

• Veneers correct asymmetry for a balanced smile. Teeth that are unevenly sized or shaped can be reproportioned.

• Veneers boost your confidence and self-esteem. An improved smile leads to feeling more positive about your appearance.

Types of Veneers

There are two main types of veneers available - porcelain and composite resin.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain is the most popular choice due to its stain-resistant, lifelike appearance. Porcelain veneers are durable and mimic the light reflecting properties of natural teeth. However, porcelain is more expensive and requires two dental visits - one for preparation and one to bond the final veneers.

Composite Veneers

Composite resin veneers are less expensive, but the material is more prone to staining over time. Composite veneers usually only require one dental visit, as they are created and bonded during the same appointment. Composite has improved greatly but still doesn't reflect light quite as well as porcelain.

Consultation for Your Custom Veneers

The first step is to meet with your Scottsdale dentist for a smile evaluation. Bring photos of what you would like your smile to look like. We will discuss your goals, options, and develop a treatment plan. From there, we take impressions of your teeth and send them to our dental lab where your custom veneers are crafted.

When the veneers are complete, we will have you try them on to ensure proper fit and color match. Only when you are completely satisfied will the veneers be permanently bonded to your teeth.

The Veneer Procedure

If you choose porcelain veneers, your teeth will be prepared at the first visit. A small amount of enamel is removed, usually less than a millimeter, to accommodate the veneer shells. Temporary veneers may be placed while your permanent veneers are made. At the second visit, your natural tooth structure will be conditioned and the dental veneers will be bonded into place.

With composite veneers, your teeth can often be prepared and the veneers placed at the same appointment. Composite veneers don't require a dental lab and use less tooth reduction than porcelain. However, results may not be as dramatic or long-lasting.

Caring for Your New Smile

To get the most out of your Scottsdale veneers, be sure to:

• Maintain good oral hygiene

• Avoid biting hard objects like ice or nuts

• Wear a mouthguard if playing sports

• See your dentist regularly for checkups

With proper care, your veneers can give you a gorgeous, confident smile for over a decade. Talk to your dentist about replacing veneers once they begin showing signs of wear to keep your smile looking its best.

A Brighter, Straighter Smile Awaits with Cosmetic Enhancements

If you live in the Scottsdale area and want to transform your smile with dental veneers, contact Sarko Dental Associates today. We provide personalized care using the latest techniques and materials for stunning, natural-looking results. Schedule a consultation and let's discuss how veneers can help you achieve the smile you've always dreamed of!

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