Do you feel embarrassed when you see your teeth in photographs? Are you self-conscious about one or more aspects of your smile? If you answered yes to either of these questions, you might want to consider investing in veneers. Simon W. Rosenberg, DMD, and the team at The Center for High Tech Dentistry on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, regularly restore smiles using custom dental veneers. To see if you’re a candidate for veneers, call the New York City office or book an appointment online today.
Veneers are custom-manufactured shells of porcelain that your dentist carefully bonds to the front of your natural, permanent teeth. Veneers can mask several oral imperfections, including chipped or damaged teeth. They also improve the color and luster of your teeth, making them an excellent treatment option if your enamel doesn’t respond to traditional teeth whitening techniques.
Veneers can address a wide array of cosmetic concerns, including:
You might also benefit from veneers if your teeth are yellow or discolored due to poor oral hygiene or taking certain prescription medications.
Receiving veneers usually takes a series of appointments. At your initial consultation, your dentist takes a series of oral X-rays, reviews your medical history, and asks you about your treatment goals.
If your teeth are healthy and your dentist doesn’t detect any signs of decay, they will move forward with treatment. First, they administer a local anesthetic, numbing your teeth and gums, and carefully shave a layer of enamel off the front of your teeth, equal to the thickness of the veneer.
After preparing your teeth, your dentist at The Center for High Tech Dentistry takes a series of digital impressions and uploads them into a computer. The team then manufactures your veneers on-site with the CEREC® milling machine, or the impressions are sent to an outside lab for them to precision design, custom manufacture, and stain the veneers.
Your dentist lines up your veneers, ensuring they match the size and position of your teeth. If everything looks good, your dentist bonds your veneers to your permanent teeth using dental cement.
Veneers usually last between 10-15 years. However, you may be able to extend the life of your veneers if you practice good oral hygiene. You should also avoid bad habits such as biting your fingernails or chewing on ice, as both may cause your veneers to crack or chip. If you grind or clench your teeth at night, let your dentist know. They might recommend you wear a nightguard to prevent damage.
To learn more about the benefits of restoring your smile with dental veneers, make an appointment at The Center for High Tech Dentistry. Call the office to get started, or book online today.