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Posts for: September, 2015
Porcelain veneers, or dental laminates, are one of today's most popular cosmetic dental improvements. Appropriate for older teens through adults in their senior years, veneers are a minimally-invasive, comfortable treatment that address imperfections on one or more
healthy teeth.
Custom-designed according to patient need and preference by Drs. Monica A. Neshat and Joy C. Jang of Reston Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, porcelain veneers are super thin shells of tooth-colored ceramic. They fit over the front surface of one or more teeth, permanently bonded in place and adjusted for best bite and fit. While there is a period of adjustment after veneer placement, patients find they quickly learn to care for and eat and speak with laminates.
At Reston Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, Doctors Monica A. Neshat and Joy C. Jang expertly design and install porcelain laminates on teeth with:
- crowding and overlapping issues
- gaps
- chips
- minor cracks
- discolorations from age, injury, prescription medicine, dark beverages and foods, smoking and chewing tobacco
Getting Veneers
Drs. Neshat and Jang first thoughtfully evaluate patients to determine if veneers are appropriate. Using modern imaging techniques and visual examination, they ensure teeth and gums are decay and disease-free. With the patient, she then builds a treatment plan, incorporating best aesthetic design and patient goals. The dentist prepares the teeth by shaving a small amount of enamel off the front of each tooth. She also sends oral impressions to an outside lab that will craft the laminates.
At the next visit, the doctor cements the veneers in place and fine-tunes bite, color, shape and fit. The patient may notice their teeth come together differently, and their speech may change a little, too.
Adjusting to Veneers
How long does it take to adjust to veneers? Most patients say it takes about 2 weeks for speech, eating and bite to normalize. Sensitivity to heat, cold and pressure goes away gradually, too.
Tips for proper care include:
- avoiding hard foods such as candy apples, peanut brittle and ice
- use of a quality fluoride toothpaste and regular dental floss
- rinsing with warm salt water if gums feel sore
- wearing a night mouth guard if teeth clenching or grinding are problematic
- getting semi-annual exams and cleanings at Reston Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
- limiting staining foods and beverages and quitting tobacco use
While veneers are very durable, accidents do happen. If a laminate pops off, chips or fractures, call the dental office right away for advice on what to do.
Enjoy Your New Smile
With good care, Reston veneers last for years. Most patients need time to adjust to just how beautiful their new smiles look!
Would you like a consultation with Monica A. Neshat DDS or Joy C. Jang DMD? Contact the friendly team at Reston Family & Cosmetic Dentistry to set-up an appointment: (703) 437-5555.