Veneers

Veneers are an affordable treatment for minor oral imperfections like stained or broken teeth. At Dentistry With A Smile Inc. in Livingston, New Jersey, Maria Victoria Sebastian, DDS, a general, family, and cosmetic dentist, uses porcelain veneers to restore beautiful, symmetrical smiles. Call the office to request a veneer consultation, or book your appointment online today.

What are veneers?

Veneers are thin porcelain shells that Dr. Sebastian bonds to the front of your permanent teeth. These shells cover up minor oral imperfections that keep you from smiling confidently.

Dr. Sebastian might recommend just one veneer if you break or chip a tooth. If your teeth are discolored, or there are gaps between your teeth, Dr. Sebastian will place six to eight veneers, ensuring a balanced smile.

What cosmetic problems can veneers treat?

At Dentistry With A Smile Inc., Dr. Sebastian uses veneers to treat various cosmetic problems, including:

• Broken and chipped teeth
• Severe discoloration or uneven coloring
• Gaps between the teeth
• Pointed teeth
• Unusually shaped teeth

You might also need veneers if you have smaller-than-average teeth that affect your bite.

What does getting veneers involve?

At Dentistry With A Smile, Inc., getting veneers takes two visits several weeks apart.

Dr. Sebastian reviews your dental records, completes an oral exam, and takes digital X-rays to check the alignment of your teeth and gums and determine how healthy they are. If your teeth are crowded or your bite is misaligned, Dr. Sebastian prescribes orthodontic treatment first.

If you qualify for veneers, Dr. Sebastian administers a local anesthetic, numbing your mouth, and removes a millimeter (about four one-hundredth of an inch) of enamel from each tooth. She then takes impressions of your teeth and sends the impressions to a dental lab. Dr. Sebastian then bonds temporary veneers to the front of your teeth, allowing you to bite and chew.

When the dental lab completes your veneers two or three weeks later, you return to Dentistry With A Smile Inc.

Dr. Sebastian administers a local anesthetic and replaces your temporary veneers with permanent ones. She checks your bite after the bonding material dries and removes any excess laminate. Then, she cleans your teeth and explains how to care for your veneers.

How long do veneers last?

Veneers last 12-15 years* on average, but you can extend their use by practicing good oral hygiene. Dr. Sebastian recommends brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing regularly, and visiting the office every six months for preventive dentistry.

You must protect your veneers from damage. Avoid bad habits like opening packaging with your teeth, and wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth or play contact sports.

Call Dentistry With A Smile Inc., or book your appointment online today to explore the benefits of dental veneers.