When patients are faced with imperfections of the smile, they may be interested in
speaking with an Encino dentist in regards to the ways in which they can enhance the appearance of the teeth. Problem areas can typically be addressed with the use of cosmetic dentistry solutions such as
porcelain veneers. Dr. Sheila Mahooti finds porcelain veneers to be an affordable, effective, and natural-looking solution to specific issues on the teeth near the front of the mouth, or the “anterior teeth.” These may also be referred to as the “social six,” as they are the most visible when patients speak, laugh, or smile at others.
Veneers are custom-fabricated shells that are made to cover the front of your teeth.
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Veneers are useful for problems such as:
- Chipped teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Discoloration
- Broken teeth
- Crooked teeth
- Misaligned teeth
- Misshapen teeth
- Worn teeth
Veneers are made from tooth-colored porcelain or resin and are created with biocompatible dentistry materials. Resin veneers are thinner and require less work during application, while porcelain veneers resist stains better and mimic natural teeth more effectively.
What can I expect from getting porcelain veneers?
Veneers are a two-step process. First, your teeth will need to be prepared for the veneers. A very small amount—about one-half of a millimeter—is removed from the enamel of your teeth. An impression of your teeth is then made in order to make a custom fitted veneer for you, which is fabricated in one of our highly skilled laboratories. After this visit to your dentist, you will go home with temporary veneers.
At the second appointment, our dentist in Encino will check the fit of the veneers and make any necessary adjustments. We use a special solution to attach the veneer to the etched surface of your teeth, and then an ultraviolet light is used to harden the solution and permanently attach the veneer with a secure and strong bond. The entire procedure is conservative and minimally invasive.
For patients who consider Lumineers, there is typically no enamel removal. However, impressions are made and a dental laboratory uses these to fabricate the new restorations to be bonded in place.
Lumineers
In some circumstances, Lumineers are the best solution. Lumineers are a non-traditional type of veneers. They are ultra-thin, so not as much enamel needs to be removed from the surface of the teeth. In fact, some patients are able to have Lumineers placed without any removal of the natural enamel, making them reversible. They work well for patients who have teeth that are already fairly straight and who are simply looking for a shape and color improvement. They may be suggested for individuals who are covering teeth that are already smaller in size. Like traditional veneers, Lumineers are also custom-made for your teeth and securely bonded to last for many years.
How do I care for veneers or Lumineers?
In some circumstances, Lumineers are the best solution. Lumineers are a non-traditional type of veneers. They are ultra-thin, so not as much enamel needs to be removed from the surface of the teeth. In fact, some patients are able to have Lumineers placed without any removal of the natural enamel, making them reversible. They work well for patients who have teeth that are already fairly straight and who are simply looking for a shape and color improvement. They may be suggested for individuals who are covering teeth that are already smaller in size. Like traditional veneers, Lumineers are also custom-made for your teeth and securely bonded to last for many years.
What materials are used for veneers?
Veneers are made of porcelain, but there are various types that are used to create veneers. Depending on what the situation indicates for a specific patient, we may use either Lithium disilicate or feldspathic porcelain. These are strong, durable, and natural-looking for beautiful enhancement of the smile.
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What are the benefits of porcelain veneers?
There are several advantages to using porcelain veneers to enhance the smile. Porcelain veneers are primarily used for aesthetic changes to the anterior teeth, and they carry the following benefits for our patients:
- Porcelain veneers are strong and durable, often lasting a decade or more with proper care.
- Porcelain veneers are best for covering imperfections on the front teeth, including gaps, misaligned teeth, or broken teeth.
- Porcelain veneers can be used as an alternative to composite resin bonding, another solution patients may consider for disguising specific aesthetic issues.
- Porcelain veneers are placed onto the front of the teeth with long-lasting bonding.
- Porcelain veneers are natural-looking because the material closely resembles natural tooth enamel and is matched to the existing teeth in color, shape, and size.
- Porcelain veneers are affordable and can be a wonderful solution for patients ready to make a long-term change to the appearance of their smile.
Schedule a visit today for veneers
Contact our dental office today to find out how our dentist in Encino can improve the look of your smile with veneers or Lumineers. Dr. Sheila Mahooti and her staff believe in providing veneers, Lumineers, and other cosmetic enhancements for patients who are ready to make a dramatic change! Call (818) 600-1884 and visit the office at 5363 Balboa BLVD. #325, Encino, CA, 91316 to discuss this option with a professional ready and willing to assist!
Veneers Before and After
