What Can I Expect at My Veneer Appointment?
If you are unhappy with the shape, size, and color of your teeth, veneers are a great way to correct all of the cosmetic issues at once. The process is less intense than undergoing multiple procedures, and it might be the cheaper option to achieve the perfect smile. That said, it’s important to understand what you’re getting into when you apply veneers to your teeth.
At Margaret Culotta-Norton, DDS, PC, in Washington, DC, Dr. Margaret Culotta-Norton and Dr. Peter Grinc provide beautiful, natural looking, long-lasting veneers to give you the smile of your dreams.
Veneers 101
Veneers are small, wafer-thin shells crafted from porcelain or other materials. We use them to improve the appearance of your teeth, completely transforming your smile. Our patients seek out veneers to correct various issues, including:
- Short teeth
- Misshapen teeth
- Discolored teeth
- Spacing issues
- Chips
- Cracks
It is very rare to be born with perfect teeth, but veneers can help you achieve a perfect smile without repeated dental procedures. Veneers are a simple process, and the results can easily last for a decade or longer with proper oral care.
What to expect
It will take three visits to complete the veneering process: consultation, preparation, and application.
Consultation
This appointment will be spent making sure veneers are right for you. Dr. Culotta-Norton will explain the process in detail, ask questions, and get an idea of your goals. Veneers are permanent, so it’s important that you understand their limits and feel confident in your decision.
Once you’ve decided what your veneers will look like, you can schedule an appointment to begin the process.
Preparation
Preparing your teeth comes next. We start by reducing a thin layer of enamel, then taking a mold of your teeth. We send off models to a dental laboratory, where your veneers are manufactured and sent back. In the meantime, Dr. Culotta-Norton will fit you with a temporary set of veneers to protect your teeth.
Application
This is the final step of the process, and the most simple. We’ll remove your temporary veneers and adhere the permanent set to your teeth. Dr. Culotta-Norton will make sure the placement is correct before fixing them in place using dental cement.
Your future with veneers
Proper dental hygiene is still required after you receive veneers, and you should avoid foods and drinks that might stain them. If cared for properly, your veneers can last anywhere from seven to 15 years.
Are you ready to get your smile brightened or straightened with veneers? You can schedule a consultation by calling 202-833-1111, or visit the contact page for more information.