Veneers

If you’re unhappy with the color, shape, or size of your teeth, veneers can enhance their appearance in as little as two visits. Heejoo Pyon, DDS, at HP Dental in the Upper East Side of Manhattan, New York, uses these thin porcelain shells to revitalize the appearance of dull or damaged teeth. Veneers are a fast, low-maintenance alternative to more invasive cosmetic treatments. Call the clinic today or book an appointment online to learn more.

What are veneers?

Veneers are thin, tooth-colored shells that alter the appearance of damaged teeth. Typically made of porcelain or composite materials, veneers bond to the surface of your teeth to hide imperfections. These cosmetic restorations can help you achieve straighter, whiter, and more uniform teeth without extensive downtime.

Why should I consider veneers?

Veneers can address a variety of cosmetic concerns, such as:

• Tooth discoloration
• Chipped teeth
• Cracked or broken teeth
• Uneven teeth
• Misshapen teeth
• Gapped teeth
• Slightly crooked teeth
• Worn teeth

Veneers are only suitable for the teeth in front of your mouth, which you see when you smile. After a comprehensive dental exam, your dentist can determine whether veneers are right for you.

Why choose veneers over teeth whitening?

Some people are not candidates for teeth whitening. Intrinsic (deep) discoloration from certain medications, like antibiotics, is difficult to remove through whitening solutions. Fluorosis (white spots) can also interfere with teeth whitening.

Veneers adhere to your tooth surface for an instant whitening effect. Most veneers contain porcelain, which is resistant to stains. Overall, veneers offer a more permanent solution to tooth discoloration than whitening treatments.

What does getting veneers involve?

Veneers usually take about two to three visits to plan and place. At your initial consultation, your dentist at HP Dental performs a comprehensive dental exam that includes digital X-rays. Your dentist uses this information to create your custom-made treatment plan.

To ensure veneers blend into your smile seamlessly, your dentist removes about 0.5 mm of enamel from your tooth surface. Next, they use digital impressions to create your veneers. Before you leave the office, your dentist applies temporary veneers to protect your teeth.

Your dentist removes the temporary restorations at your final visit and places your permanent veneers. They may make a few adjustments to ensure the most attractive, comfortable fit before cementing them. Veneers are fully functional and require no extensive downtime once placed.

How should I care for veneers?

To care for veneers at home, you should take the following steps:

• Invest in a nonabrasive toothpaste
• Brush and floss after meals
• Limit your consumption of acidic foods and drinks
• Minimize your sugar and alcohol intake
• Avoid biting on pens, ice, fingernails, and other hard items
• Maintain regular dental exams and teeth cleanings

If you grind your teeth at night, your HP Dental dentist can create a custom-made dental night guard to protect your teeth.

Call HP Dental today or book an appointment online to learn more about veneers.