Porcelain dental veneers are a marvel of modern dentistry. In the hands of a skilled, experienced cosmetic dentist, veneers can overcome a variety of smile concerns. Through one-on-one consultation, Dr. Clint Bruyere enjoys helping women and men in the Hallsville area understand how veneers are applied, what conditions they correct, and how to care for them. He believes that this up-front investment of time and education puts you in a great position to prepare for a new smile

Are veneers right for you?

A dental veneer is a very thin layer of porcelain, custom made to fit precisely over the visible surface of a tooth. This is a cosmetic treatment. Veneers improve the look of teeth, rather than fixing a health issue (like a cavity or gum disease), and they don’t affect function. The appearance of a single tooth may be improved with a veneer, or all the teeth that show when you smile may be veneered for a fast smile makeover.

Veneers are designed to disguise appearance problems like:

• Enamel flaws – chips, cracks, pits, or bulges
• Shape – teeth that are too short, worn down, or just formed incorrectly
• Discoloration – deep stains or old, darkened dental work
• Minor misalignment – small gaps, crooked teeth, or mild crowding

Teeth that have significant damage usually need to be restored with crowns, and orthodontics may be more appropriate for moderate to significant misalignment. In some cases, only professional teeth whitening is required for a dazzling smile.

Preparation and application

Dr. Bruyere is generally able to complete veneers in just two appointments, once you’ve decided to proceed and any existing oral problems have been resolved.

At your initial visit, Dr. Bruyere will make impressions of your mouth and prepare a wax model to show you how your new smile will look. Together, you will make adjustments and select the exact coloring for your veneers. At the next visit, Dr. Bruyere will prepare your teeth. This requires minute reduction of the enamel surface to allow the veneers to fit snugly and look natural. You may not even need anesthetic. Impressions will be taken again and all of the information will be sent to a professional dental laboratory where your veneers are fabricated. You will be fitted with temporaries, meanwhile. You see Dr. Bruyere again in about three weeks. The interim veneers are removed, and the new ones are double-checked for fit and aesthetics. Teeth are etched with a special solution so that the veneers may be bonded securely into place with a light-activated adhesive. A final polish shows off their gorgeous luster.

Caring for your veneers

Veneers require very little extra care and are stain resistant. Simply brush after eating, with a bit of extra attention at the gum line, and floss before bedtime. Don’t bite directly into very hard foods. Dr. Bruyere will talk with you about wearing a night guard to protect your new smile if you clench or grind while sleeping.

Are you ready to get started on your dream smile? Call Dr. Bruyere today at (903) 708-6116.

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