March 19, 2010

The Latest Procedure from Santa Monica Dentists: Porcelain Veneers

Filed under: Baker's Dozen — admin @ 3:28 pm

Among the most frequently requested procedures Santa Monica dentists do is the installation of veneers. For good reason. Even if the teeth are stained, cracked, worn down or just naturally crooked, they can be sorted out without resorting to a surgical procedure. Santa Monica dental veneers are actually giving patients something to smile about.

Molded from a thin shell made from a vitreous substance, veneers cover the teeth to look exactly like regular tooth enamel. As soon as they are fitted, veneers conceal a broken tooth, cracks, misalignment, odd shapes, discoloration, and many other flaws to give clients a perfect, gleaming smile. Santa Monica dental veneers are almost permanent and are resistant to staining or cracking.

The procedure involves shaping the selected teeth and sanding the natural enamel to permit the fixative to grip properly. Subsequently, they create a model of the patient’s teeth which is sent to a special dental laboratory for fabrication. And while the final veneers are in the process of being produced interim covers are usually put in place. On a second visit, the cosmetic dentistry professional will take out the temporary veneers and prepare the tooth enamel. At this point the dentist will utilize a fixative and fix the veneer into its final position.

After the first couple of weeks during which the fixative cures, patients have no limitations. Regular check-ups at the dental surgery and remembering to brush and floss on a regular basis are all that is required to maintain a sparkling smile.

They aren’t perfect for everyone, however as well. The area surrounding the veneer is at a higher risk of cavities due to the fact that germs can sometimes grow on the outside or even between the porcelain and the natural tooth. Unfortunately they can shatter if they are put under enough pressure, this can be an ongoing problem for patients who are prone to grinding their teeth.

Santa Monica porcelain veneers are less expensive than dental implants. Generally they provide the greatest value for money. They will put up with a great deal more wear and tear than composite bonding. Implants are a great deal more expensive and the process takes more time and can sometimes hurt a lot.