Close gaps, recontour and remove stubborn stains with Dental Veneers
Many of the smiles that we covet were “made” with veneers. So, your favorite celebrity with the dazzling smile likely didn’t always have teeth that looked stunning and “perfect.” At Westlake Family Dentistry in Lake Oswego, Oregon, we can correct cosmetic imperfections to craft smiles that aren’t “too perfect” but are attractive and address gaps, chips, shape, size-related irregularities, and other concerns. Again, veneers are a cosmetic procedure. They may not be appropriate for patients with underlying oral health, structural, or functional problems. In the latter case, patients are best suited for our lovely, aesthetically appealing, and highly functional dental restorations (like crowns).
Additionally, we understand that each patient is unique and more than their teeth and gums. We offer cost-effective alternatives to veneers that are suited to all budgets, lifestyles, and goals. Dr. Brad Sievert also combines his technical aptitude and advanced technologies with considerable artistry and skill. These characteristics add up to a new and improved tooth structure that looks and feels natural and is perfectly suited to your personal characteristics and preferences. Veneers designed and placed at our office are never fake-looking.
The process
As with all services at our practice, the veneers process starts with a consultation. Dr. Sievert will confirm that your teeth and gums are healthy. He will also discuss your options for treatment (more on that in the next section). If you desire to move forward with veneers, the natural tooth will be “prepared.” This simply means that we slightly reshape the tooth to accommodate the thickness of the veneer. Modern veneers are very, very thin. So, all that is required is the removal of around a fingernail’s-width of tooth enamel. The rest of your tooth remains unaltered. This approach also helps to minimize tooth sensitivity and discomfort associated with altering the protective covering of the teeth.
We also collect information about any teeth to be treated. This involves using diagnostics such as digital X-rays and also taking digital scans or models of the teeth. Impressions are used to guide the fabrication of your permanent veneers. Once your veneers are ready, you return to our office and any temporary or provisional veneers are removed. The permanent veneer is then placed on top of the treated tooth surface. In this manner, a chipped or very stained tooth is covered up and disguised with a brilliant-looking veneer. Typically made from porcelain, these veneers naturally mimic the appearance and durability of tooth enamel. They may also be used to dramatically improve the appearance of all of the teeth in the “smile zone.” Patients also appreciate that porcelain resists stains for a lasting, lovely look.
Before & After Treatment Images
- This patient wanted a brighter and more youthful smile.
- Veneers were used to lighten her tooth color and rebuild decades of wear.
- She has been happy with her new smile for years now!
- Because of a poor dental bonding treatment, this patient had lived with two yellow front teeth for years.
- We were able to fix those teeth to give her a smile with uniform color and a beautiful appearance!
- This is yet another good examples of how veneers could make a huge difference in your overall look.
- This patient had suffered wear and damage to his front teeth since high school.
- We were able to give him a healthy and attractive smile again using porcelain veneers.
- Contact us if your smile needs a second chance!
The alternatives
Dr. Sievert also offers “direct veneers,” which are known popularly as “dental bonding.” They are similar to porcelain veneers, only the treatment can be completed in a single visit. And, instead of porcelain, these veneers are made from composite resin. The resin is applied to the tooth as a putty. Your dentist uses his finesse to shape the resin, then hardened with a specialized curing light. Dental bonding often does not require any alteration of tooth enamel and is a more affordable alternative to porcelain or indirect veneers; however, resins can stain and generally do not hold up as well as porcelain.
During a consultation, additional alternatives that we may discuss include orthodontic treatments, such as clear aligners, professional teeth bleaching, and porcelain crowns. The most appropriate option for you depends, partly, on if you have minor gaps or more extensive “bite” issues and if you have small chips versus more substantive cracks or fractures.
Call us at (503) 386-4164 to schedule your consultation and to discuss options for treatment.
Porcelain Veneers
Veneers are thin handcrafted porcelain shields worn on the front of the tooth which improve the appearance of teeth that are chipped, cracked, stained or worn. Veneers are thin as contact lenses, and are an aesthetically pleasing option of closing gaps, lengthening teeth, and providing symmetry to make your smile more natural. Veneers are intended to last for many years without changing color. They are one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in dentistry. Ask your dentist if veneers may be right for you.