Dental Veneers

1. Initial Consultation: The journey to a rejuvenated smile starts with an initial consultation with Dr. Baker. During this visit, she will assess your dental health, discuss your cosmetic goals, and evaluate whether dental veneers fit you. This phase is crucial for setting realistic expectations and planning your treatment.
2. Preparation: Once veneers are deemed suitable, the preparation phase begins. Dr. Baker will prepare your teeth by removing a thin enamel layer from the surface. This step ensures that the veneers adhere properly and look natural. The amount of enamel removed is minimal and typically equals the thickness of the veneer to be applied.
3. Impressions: After we prepare your teeth, we will take precise impressions of them. Dr. Baker will send the impressions to a dental laboratory, where the lab will carefully craft your custom veneers. The lab technicians will use these molds to create veneers that match the exact color, shape, and size needed for a perfect fit.
4. Temporary Veneers: While the lab creates your permanent veneers, you may receive temporary veneers to protect your prepared teeth and maintain a natural appearance.
5. Bonding: Once your custom veneers are ready, you’ll return to Baker Dental Studio for the final step. Dr. Baker will carefully check the fit and color of each veneer, making any necessary adjustments before bonding them to your teeth. The bonding process involves cleaning, polishing, and etching the teeth to ensure a strong bond. Special cement attaches to the veneers, and a curing light helps harden the cement quickly.
6. Final Adjustments and Polishing: After we bond the veneers to your teeth, Dr. Baker will make any final adjustments to ensure a comfortable bite and a flawless, natural look. Finally, the veneers are polished to give your smile an extra shine.

Dental Veneer Aftercare

Taking proper care of your new dental veneers is essential to ensure they remain in excellent condition and provide a long-lasting, beautiful smile. Here are some important aftercare tips to keep your veneers looking their best:

1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Veneers require diligent oral hygiene, such as natural teeth. Brush your teeth at least twice daily with a non-abrasive toothpaste, and floss daily to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease. Consider using a fluoride mouthwash to provide additional protection.
2. Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: While veneers are durable, they can be damaged by chewing on hard objects such as ice, pencils, or fingernails. Sticky or overly hard foods can also pose a risk, so it’s best to avoid them to prevent any chips or fractures.
3. Limit Stain-Causing Foods and Drinks: Although porcelain veneers are resistant to staining, composite resin veneers can be more susceptible. To keep your veneers looking their brightest, limit your consumption of stain-causing substances like coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco.
4. Wear a Mouthguard: If you participate in contact sports or grind your teeth at night (bruxism), wearing a mouthguard can protect your veneers from damage. Custom-made mouthguards offer the best protection and comfort.
5. Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups and cleanings with Dr. Baker at Baker Dental Studio. Professional cleanings will help maintain your oral health and allow Dr. Baker to monitor the condition of your veneers, addressing any issues promptly.