Veneers – Santa Fe, NM
Erase Several Dental Imperfections At Once
When you look at your smile, do your eyes immediately go to noticeable imperfections, like stains and gaps? Maybe they instead focus on that one chip that’s always bothered you – even if no one else notices. In both cases, we recommend scheduling a consultation with Dr. Haiwen Zhang to discuss veneers! This popular cosmetic dentistry service is unique because it can improve the shade, shape, and size of your teeth simultaneously. If you want to learn more about the treatment process and benefits, read on.
Why Choose Juniper Dental for Veneers?
- Dentist Who Studied at the Prestigious Pankey Institute
- Friendly, Multilingual Dental Team
- Cutting-Edge Dental Technology, Including Digital Impressions
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers (commonly referred to as “porcelain veneers”) can effectively conceal a wide range of imperfections – from slight chips and considerable gaps to permanent discoloration. How? Well, thin shells of high-quality dental materials, like porcelain, are made into thin shells that are about the width of your fingernail. These are securely bonded to the front-facing surface of your teeth, creating a seamless, symmetrical, and stunning smile in the process.
The Process of Getting Veneers
Usually, the process of transforming your smile with veneers is broken up into three appointments. The first is your consultation, which is when our talented cosmetic dentist will determine if you’re a good candidate for veneers. If you are, then he will help you solidify the details of your treatment plan, including how many teeth are being treated and the ideal shade of the veneers.
At the second appointment, Dr. Zhang will carefully remove a sliver of your enamel before taking the necessary impressions of your teeth. These are used to craft your veneers at the dental lab. Since the lab artisans usually need a few weeks to make them, we will provide you with a temporary set in the meantime.
The final appointment is when we will replace your temporary veneers with your permanent ones. We will also make any necessary last-minute adjustments, review how to take care of them so that they last, and answer any questions you have before you leave!
The Benefits of Veneers
Patients and dentists alike continue to love veneers because:
- They can be placed in three visits or less
- They can last for well over a decade with proper care
- The shade, shape, and size of each one can be customized
- They can fix multiple imperfections, including permanent stains
- They are easy to maintain
Understanding the Cost of Veneers
Usually, dental insurance providers don’t cover the cost of veneers. As a result, they’ve developed a reputation for being expensive. However, the price you pay depends largely on several factors, including how many teeth are being treated. That’s why we recommend getting in touch with our Santa Fe dental team if you’re interested in getting an estimate.
Veneer FAQs
Are Veneers Permanent?
Veneers are not considered permanent, but they are designed to be long-lasting. Veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite resin that are bonded to the front surfaces of your teeth to improve their appearance. While they can last between 10 to 15 years or even longer with proper care, they are not indestructible.
The process of applying veneers involves removing a small amount of enamel from your teeth to ensure a proper fit. This means that, if you need to replace or remove them, your teeth will be permanently altered. Over time, veneers may chip, crack, or become discolored, and they might need to be replaced. Regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene can help extend their lifespan and keep them looking their best.
What Happens to the Teeth Under Veneers?
Under veneers, your teeth undergo specific changes due to the preparation process. Initially, a thin layer of enamel is removed from the front surface of your teeth to ensure that the veneers fit properly and blend seamlessly with the surrounding teeth. This enamel removal exposes the underlying dentin, which is more sensitive and can lead to increased sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks.
While veneers provide a protective layer over the teeth, they do not completely shield the underlying teeth from potential issues like decay or gum disease, making good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups essential. If veneers are removed or replaced, the teeth will have less enamel, potentially requiring additional treatment or protection to maintain their health and function.
How Many Veneers Will I Need?
The number of veneers you need depends on your cosmetic goals and the condition of your teeth. If you're looking to address issues such as discoloration, unevenness, or gaps, the number of veneers required will vary based on the extent of these concerns. For a complete smile makeover, you might need veneers on all visible teeth, usually 6 to 10 upper teeth, though some may also choose to have veneers on lower teeth.
If only a few teeth are affected, you might need veneers only on those specific ones. We will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan, considering factors like tooth alignment, color, and shape to achieve a balanced and aesthetically pleasing result. We will evaluate your needs and recommend the number of veneers needed to meet your cosmetic goals and ensure a harmonious smile.
Can You Whiten Veneers?
No, you cannot whiten veneers with standard teeth whitening treatments. Veneers are made from materials like porcelain or composite resin, which do not respond to whitening agents. If your veneers become stained or discolored, the whitening treatments used for natural teeth will not affect them.
To address discoloration or staining on veneers, you may need to have them professionally cleaned or polished. In some cases, if the veneers are significantly discolored or have aged, they might need to be replaced. Regular dental visits and proper oral hygiene can help maintain the appearance of your veneers and prevent staining. If you’re concerned about the color of your veneers, it’s best to discuss options with us.