Natural-looking veneers correct imperfections, enhance smiles
Dental veneers are the secret behind many famous and not-so-famous faces’ stunning smiles. When done well, veneers are a natural-looking solution to a vast range of cosmetic concerns. Dr. Douglas B. Kersey, Jr., has advanced training in cosmetic dentistry to design and place veneers that look no different than beautiful, healthy, natural teeth. No one should notice your veneers. They should only notice your beautiful smile, because at Kersey Dental in LaGrange, Georgia, our veneers are designed to be imperceptible from natural teeth.
What cosmetic concerns can veneers fix?
Veneers are ideal for individuals with healthy teeth and gums who have dental imperfections. Dr. Kersey routinely uses veneers to close small gaps between the teeth, correct minor misalignment (such as a rotated tooth), and make overly small or short teeth look bigger and longer. Veneers are also used to cover up stubborn discoloration, chips, minor cracks, and other visible signs of wear and tear, and to change the shape of a tooth so it looks more uniform when you smile.
How do veneers fix dental flaws?
Think of veneers as very thin coverings. These coverings are typically made out of porcelain. This material is known for closely resembling natural tooth enamel. It also resists staining well and is strong. Dr. Kersey removes minimal enamel from each “imperfect” tooth. This step is necessary for the veneer to fit properly, so it will look and feel natural and be less vulnerable to breakage. The veneers are made in a lab and, once completed, affixed to the front surfaces of each tooth. Once bonded securely in place, the underlying chips, cracks, whitening-resistant stains, and other imperfections are hidden. No one can see them. All they see are your naturally beautiful-looking teeth!
How long does it take to get veneers?
Veneers typically require two or three appointments. During the first appointment, Dr. Kersey examines your teeth and discusses what you don’t like about your teeth with you, and provides treatment recommendations. If veneers are right for you, the second appointment involves numbing the area and preparing each tooth, taking impressions of the teeth, and then placing temporary veneers to protect the teeth while your permanent ones are being made. The final appointment involves “installing” the veneers once Dr. Kersey has confirmed their appearance and fit.
Will veneers hurt my teeth?
Absolutely not! However, veneers do permanently alter tooth structure because enamel is removed. So, it is important to understand that this procedure is irreversible. Dental bonding is an alternative procedure that does not alter the tooth’s structure. Composite resin is applied directly to a tooth that has been slightly “buffed,” but little to no enamel is actually removed. Once in place, the resin covers imperfections like a veneer.
Do veneers last a long time?
Yes, they can hold up well for several years. But their “lifespan” is largely dependent on how well you take care of your mouth. Failure to brush and floss consistently, for instance, can allow bacteria to penetrate the underlying tooth structure. Conditions like untreated teeth grinding can also chip or fracture veneers. So, it is important to treat or address behaviors and habits that may be hard on your veneers. During routine visits to Kersey Dental for exams and cleanings, we check the condition of your dental work to identify and address problems early before they cause significant damage.
To get started on the process today, call (706) 813-6754 and schedule a consultation at our office in LaGrange, GA.
