Cosmetic Dentistry

Dental Veneers in San Ramon

Patients looking to enhance their smiles may consider dental veneers or laminates. While these terms are often used interchangeably, there are some differences between them. Both options can effectively improve the appearance of a smile. Understanding the distinctions between veneers and laminates can help you select the best choice for your specific needs and goals.

Dental veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin that cover the front surface of teeth to repair minor damage and enhance the appearance of stains or discoloration. Veneers can address various issues, such as gaps, misshapen teeth, cracks, chips, and discoloration. To ensure a smooth and natural appearance, some enamel removal and tooth reshaping are necessary so the veneers can sit flat without appearing bulky.

Patients can choose between porcelain veneers and composite resin veneers. Porcelain veneers typically last longer, are more resistant to staining, and are stronger and more durable than composite resin veneers. However, they usually require two dental visits to complete. Composite resin veneers can often be applied in a single visit, preserve more of the patient’s natural tooth enamel, and are generally less expensive than porcelain veneers, though they are more susceptible to breakage.

To place porcelain veneers, the cosmetic dentist must remove enamel from the tooth’s surface so the thin shell can adhere to it. A dental lab technician then creates custom veneers with teeth molds and color-matches them to the patient’s teeth. Then the shells are bonded to the patient’s teeth using special dental cement.

For composite resin veneers, we remove the tooth enamel first. The composite resin, which matches the natural enamel, covers and reshapes the teeth to improve the appearance. After, a special light seals the resin to the underlying teeth. Finally, we file the veneers to achieve a natural appearance.

The Canadian Dental Association emphasizes the importance of good dental hygiene to maintain the appearance and function of new veneers. Proper maintenance includes brushing and flossing after meals and visiting the dentist for regular check-ups. Neglecting these steps can lead to decay and cavities forming between or under the veneer shells.

Veneers can crack, break, or loosen under pressure, so patients should avoid chewing hard candies, ice, or similar items. In the first few days after the procedure, it is recommended to stick to soft foods and avoid consuming nuts, hard bread, popcorn, and seeds. Wearing a bite guard at night can help prevent grinding, which may wear down the veneers. Additionally, since veneers are prone to staining, patients should avoid substances like tobacco, red wine, and coffee.