If you are considering porcelain veneers to enhance your smile, Dr. Leonard Hess in Monroe, NC, offers expertise and personalized care. Understanding the process can help ease your concerns. Here’s what you can expect when getting porcelain veneers.
Pre-Procedure
Initial Consultation
Your journey to a more radiant smile begins with an initial consultation. During this visit, Dr. Hess discusses your cosmetic goals. He takes the time to understand what you hope to achieve with veneers. He evaluates your dental health and determines if porcelain veneers suit your needs. Dr. Hess explains the procedure in detail. He outlines the benefits and addresses any questions you might have. This thorough approach ensures you feel informed and confident about your decision.
Dental Examination
A thorough dental examination follows the consultation. Dr. Hess takes X-rays and digital images of your teeth. This step helps identify any underlying issues that might affect the veneer application. Addressing conditions such as gum disease or tooth decay ensures a successful veneer placement. Dr. Hess might also assess your bite and jaw alignment. Ensuring optimal oral health is crucial to the longevity and success of your veneers.
Veneer Preparation
Tooth Reshaping
To begin preparing your teeth for veneers, Dr. Hess gently reshapes the tooth surface. This process involves removing a small amount of enamel. This step makes room for the veneer while maintaining a natural look and feel. Dr. Hess uses precise tools and techniques to ensure minimal discomfort. He prioritizes preserving as much of your natural tooth structure as possible.
Impression Taking
After reshaping your teeth, Dr. Hess takes impressions. These molds capture the precise dimensions of your teeth. The dental lab uses these impressions to craft your custom veneers. While the lab creates your veneers, you may receive temporary veneers to protect your teeth. These temporary veneers provide a functional and aesthetic cover. They often allow you to continue your daily activities without interruption.
Veneer Placement
Temporary Veneers
Temporary veneers serve as a placeholder while your permanent veneers are crafted. These temporary coverings protect your teeth and offer a preview of your final result. Although they may not match the exact shade or fit of the final veneers, they provide valuable feedback for necessary adjustments. Dr. Hess ensures that these temporaries fit comfortably and perform well during the interim period.
Bonding Permanent Veneers
Once the dental lab completes your veneers, you return to Dr. Hess for placement. He begins by ensuring the veneers fit perfectly. He may make minor adjustments to achieve optimal fit. Dr. Hess takes the time to ensure the veneers align seamlessly with your natural teeth. Satisfied with the fit, he will clean, polish, and etch your teeth to create a strong bond.
Dr. Hess applies a special adhesive to your teeth and carefully places each veneer. A curing light hardens the adhesive, securing the veneers in place. He will remove any excess cement and make final adjustments as needed, ensuring your bite remains comfortable. This meticulous process ensures both durability and aesthetics.
Porcelain veneers could offer a dramatic improvement in your smile’s appearance. At Dr. Leonard Hess Dentistry, we strive to provide the highest level of care throughout the process. From initial consultation to post-procedure follow-ups, we commit to ensuring your satisfaction. Our goal is not only to enhance your smile but also to support your overall oral health. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a brighter, more confident smile.