Charles Calhoun, DDS (918) 250-8861 charlesdrc@aol.com

A dental veneer is a very thin shell that is placed over your teeth to enhance your smile. These custom-made shells are bonded to your teeth and can change how they appear. Typically, veneers are placed on the front teeth. Porcelain veneers are common. This material resists stains and mimic the appearance of your natural teeth. However, your dentist may use a different material, such as a resin, depending on your needs. Tulsa Veneer Specialist>

Lumineers Tulsa

What Types of Problems Do Porcelain Veneers Fix?

Dental veneers typically fix cosmetic issues, such as:
  • Teeth that are chipped or broken
  • Misaligned or uneven teeth
  • Teeth that have gaps between them
  • Stained teeth
However, your Tulsa dentist will have to review your situation, because there are many factors that determine suitability for dental veneers. You may have underlying problems that will need to be corrected before obtaining a veneer. Make sure to know what you hope to achieve when you talk to your dentist about porcelain veneers.

What’s The Procedure For Getting Dental Veneers?

Generally, you will need to make three trips to your cosmetic dentist in Tulsa for dental veneers. At the first appointment, your teeth will be examined. X-rays will most likely be taken. You and the dentist will discuss options to get the results you want to achieve.
 
At the second appointment, the dentist prepares the teeth for the dental veneers. About ½-mm of enamel will have to be removed from the teeth, the veneer replaces the enamel. Your dentist will have to remove the enamel from the surface of the teeth. An anesthetic might be used, again depending on your needs. Then, an impression of the teeth where the veneer will be placed is made. This model is sent to a lab that will fabricate the dental veneer.

The third appointment is when the dental veneer is bonded to your tooth. First, it will be fitted to your teeth. The color may be adjusted. Your teeth will be cleaned and polished. The dentist etches the teeth, creating a rough surface for a strong bond. Special cement is applied to the veneer, then it is placed on your teeth. A special light beam is applied to the cement to activate the chemicals in it to harden quickly. Before you leave the dentist’s office in Tulsa, the excess cement will be removed, and your bite will be evaluated.

You may be asked to return in a couple of weeks to check the veneer once more. However, once the veneer is placed, there is no special care other than good oral hygiene practices. Brush and floss normally. See your dentist for regular cleanings.

smiling lady in tulsa oklahoma with new veneers

The Benefits of Dental Veneers

You should note that veneers are not reversible. However, they do last up to 15 years when taken care of. These are some of the benefits of veneers:
 
  • Gum tissue tolerates porcelain well. Veneers won’t irritate the gum tissue
  • Porcelain veneers don’t stain. However, your natural teeth might, causing a discoloration after the veneers are placed.
  • Veneers are an aesthetic alternative that are affordable.
Talk to your dentist in Tulsa about porcelain veneers and whether they’re right for you.