What to Expect When Preparing For Veneers
By Michelle Deutch | Published on December 29, 2011 | 0 Comments
Dental veneers can be a permanent way to whiten and straighten teeth in very little time, however, Dr. Michelle B. Deutch, D.D.S. cautions that veneers are not an option that will work for everyone. The Overland Park dentist says that some patients don’t feel comfortable with how much preparation is necessary before their veneers can go on.
Despite the misconception, most types of dental veneers do not just pop over the top of patients’ existing teeth. Although there are some types of low-prep veneers that can be placed directly over existing teeth, Dr. Deutch says these types of veneers are not as cosmetic as traditional porcelain veneers.
In order to place porcelain veneers, a dentist must prepare the tooth to a certain degree. When Dr. Deutch talks about preparing a tooth, what she means is removing a small amount of the exterior enamel. By removing this outer layer of enamel, the dentist is making it possible for the veneers to lay flat against the teeth without sticking out or protruding in an unsightly way. Once the teeth have been cut down, the porcelain veneers can be bonded in a way that is both secure and aesthetically pleasing.
Unfortunately, some patients aren’t comfortable having a dentist in Overland Park cut down on their natural teeth purely for cosmetic reasons. People who do not want to have their teeth cut down have two options: they can rely on orthodontia to straighten and improve their smiles, or they can opt for an inferior type of dental veneer that requires less prep work beforehand. Dr. Deutch recommends that patients think long and hard about the preparation that is going to be involved before deciding on dental veneers in the first place.
Although most people think of veneers as a way to fix chipped teeth and create straighter, prettier smiles, Dr. Deutch explains that veneers are also a great way to permanently whiten the teeth. People who opt for porcelain veneers can choose the shade that they want their new smiles to be without having to worry about coming back into the dentist in Overland Park for follow up whitening treatments and touch up sessions.
Of course, nothing lasts forever. Although dental veneers will stay the same shade –which means people don’t have to worry about fading in the same way they would after undergoing most teeth whitening treatments – the Overland Park dentist says they will need to be maintained and updated over time.
Overland Park, KS 66210
*Disclaimer: The information on this website is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.