Dental Veneers
Agoura Hills, CA
 Do you have chipped or misshapen teeth that make you feel self-conscious? Are you looking for a simple, inexpensive and non-surgical way to improve your smile? Then dental veneers might be just what you’re looking for. A thin covering placed over your existing teeth; veneers can give your teeth a more natural look. The Doctor at Artistic Smiles is here to help you learn more.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Veneers are thin covers that adhere to the front (visible) part of your tooth or teeth. They are used to correct a wide range of cosmetic defects, including stains not responding to traditional teeth whitening treatments, chipped, worn, crooked or misshapen teeth, and uneven spacing or gaps between the upper front teeth. Once placed, veneers should last 7-15 years and do not require any special care.
What Are They Made Of?
Veneers can be made of either porcelain or composite resin. Both have their pros and cons, and the decision of which material to use depends on your needs and preferences.
Porcelain
Porcelain veneers are strong and long-lasting, reflect light more naturally, and resist staining. They are custom-fitted to your tooth and look more natural. Gum tissue is often more tolerant of porcelain veneers.
Composite Resin
Made from a tooth-colored resin bonded to the tooth, composite veneers are cheaper, require less removal of the natural tooth’s enamel, and can often be placed in just one visit. While they are not as strong or stain-resistant as porcelain veneers, they are more easily repaired or replaced.
How Are Veneers Placed?
In order to place a veneer, we must first remove a small amount of enamel in order to make the veneer fit naturally. Then we make a mold of your existing tooth and choose the color that best matches your remaining teeth. The impression is sent to a dental lab, and you go home, sometimes with temporary veneers to wear while you wait. It usually takes 2-4 weeks before the veneer is ready. Once the porcelain veneer is ready, we place the veneers on your teeth and check the fit. Once the veneer is perfectly positioned and color-matched, we use a special light to activate the cement and bond the veneer to your tooth.
Are There Any Downsides?
As with any procedure, there are disadvantages to dental veneers. Porcelain veneers are more costly and are not repairable. They may not perfectly match the shade of your other teeth, and the color cannot be altered once they are in place. Teeth with veneers can still experience decay and can potentially become dislodged or fall off. To prevent this, practice good oral hygiene and refrain from biting your nails or chewing sticky food or hard objects such as ice cubes or pens.
Am I A Good Candidate For Veneers?
If you have one or several chipped, misshapen or discolored teeth, and are in good oral and general health, you are likely a good candidate for veneers. However, veneers aren’t right for everyone. People with gum disease, decreased tooth enamel, unhealthy or weakened teeth are poor candidates for the procedure. People who clench or grind their teeth should not get porcelain veneers, as this can damage the veneers.
If you or someone you love is interested in learning more about veneers, contact the experts at Artistic Smiles. We will help you put together a unique treatment plan that is individualized to your needs. Call (818) 930-5647 to book an appointment today!
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