General dentistry focuses on preventative treatments, but it includes using dental cosmetics like veneers to restore or enhance the appearance of teeth. A veneer is a tooth-shaped restoration that is cemented to the front part of a tooth. It covers up any imperfections, damages, or deformities on that part of the tooth. Veneers started out as a way to make the smiles of Hollywood actors look more attractive on screen, and it took off in popularity from there.
Veneers are typically recommended for teeth at the front of the mouth, and they can completely transform the way that your smile looks. Problems that general dentistry can address with veneers include:
Getting teeth restored with veneers involves multiple trips to the dentist. During the first visit, the dentist educates the patient about the process and examines their teeth and gums. The dentist might recommend other restorations, like crowns, if the damage to the patient’s teeth affects other areas besides the front-facing sides.
Placing conventional veneers requires removing enamel from the front part of the teeth being treated. It is a permanent modification that cannot be reversed in the future. Teeth that have been prepared for veneers will always need restorations to protect them moving forward.
There are specialty veneers called “no-prep” that do not require shaving off the enamel. These veneers are thinner than standard veneers, so they are better suited for cases with mild to moderate damage to a patient’s teeth. Severe discoloration or deformities on a tooth often require conventional veneers. The patient will be given the time to choose which option they prefer, and a date will be set for the first part of the treatment.
The first part of the process of placing veneers starts with the dentist cleaning and preparing the patient’s teeth. A shot of a local anesthetic will be administered so the person will not feel pain as the dentist trims the enamel on their teeth.
Once all of the teeth being treated have been prepped, an impression of them is made by using digital images to create a 3D model. Alternatively, the dentist might take an impression of the patient’s teeth by having them bite down on a mold. The mold is sent to a dental lab where restorations like veneers are made. It takes a couple of weeks for the finished restorations to get back to the dentist. The patient gets temporary veneers for their prepped teeth to protect them while they wait for their custom veneers.
The temporary veneers are taken off during the second appointment, and customized veneers are cemented into place. Alterations are made as needed to ensure that everything looks right.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentistry Services in Woodland Hills, CA
Anyone can now craft their desired smile with veneers. Call or stop by our Woodland Hills clinic to set up an appointment with our dentist.
Request an appointment or call Southern Cal Smiles: Susan Fredericks, D.D.S, M.P.H. at 818-657-8055 for an appointment in our Woodland Hills office.
General dentistry helps prevent, diagnose, and treat a wide range of dental issues, like tooth decay and gum disease. General dentists are the most common types of dentists, and they spend most of their time performing preventative treatments.Many patients have oral health questions for general dentists. Here are the answers to the most frequently asked…
General dentistry focuses on preventative treatments that help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Brushing and flossing are the foundations of preventative dentistry, and the type of toothpaste that you use can make your brushing sessions even more effective.With so many different types of toothpaste to choose from, figuring out what type works best can…
When you think of general dentistry, you may first think of teeth cleanings, examinations, and fluoride treatments. While these are typical services at the dentist’s office, treatments for more serious issues are common too. If you have a damaged tooth, you may be in pain and may be prone to getting infections or cavities. The…
Dental bonding provides patients with a non-invasive way to repair a myriad of issues that affect their teeth. The procedure can be performed for restorative or cosmetic purposes. It typically does not require the use of anesthetics or multiple visits to a dentist.Unlike crowns and veneers, which typically require shaving enamel off the tooth being…
Dental bonding is a multi-purpose procedure that provides patients with restorative and cosmetic benefits. Improving the way a person’s smile looks helps to increase their confidence, and restoring damaged teeth protects them against a wide range of dental and general issues.Repairing teeth with dental bonding does not require the dentist to make any permanent restorations…