Can you enhance a smile flawed by chips, stains, gaps and other small defects? Is a bright, even smile truly achievable? Why not ask Dr. John Wyatt, your dentist serving the Wheat Ridge and Arvada, CO area, if porcelain veneers could help the appearance of your teeth? He'll tell you all about this popular cosmetic treatment and if they can beautify your healthy smile.

Sometimes whitening and bonding aren't enough

That's when porcelain veneers may come in. Also termed dental laminates, porcelain veneers are tooth-shaped shells of quality dental ceramic. Tooth-colored, lustrous and realistic, veneers cover the front side of teeth that are chipped, cracked, discolored or misshapen. Dr. Wyatt bonds veneers in place permanently and with routine care, they last for 10 to 15 years, or in some cases, even longer.

Placement of veneers helps defects and stains that are just too big or dark for composite resin bonding or professional teeth whitening. Dr. Wyatt determines which cosmetic dental treatment will work best by examining the individual's teeth and gums and taking X-rays. Then, he makes recommendations based on the patient's oral health, budget, and desired goals. Often, cosmetic dentists use porcelain veneers combined with whitening, bonding, tooth-colored fillings and other aesthetic services to completely transform a less than perfect smile.

What's the process like?

After deciding to place veneers, the dentist in Wheat Ridge takes oral impressions and removes a thin slice of enamel from the front of each tooth receiving a veneer. This buffing procedure is quick and comfortable and helps laminates bond securely in place. Dr. Wyatt also takes oral impressions and sends them, together with his treatment plan, to a dental lab for custom fabrication of the veneers. In the meantime, the patient wears temporary laminates.

When the new veneers are ready, Dr. Wyatt removes the temporary ones and uses a special cement to bond the veneers to each tooth. The ceramist carefully sculpted the veneers to the right shape and size to compliment the individual's smile and other facial features, and frankly, the resulting transformation is amazing. Veneers allow the patient to have a beautiful and very natural-looking smile that resists stains and chips.

Additionally, caring for porcelain veneers is as easy as brushing twice a day with a soft brush and flossing daily as the American Dental Association advises. While veneers are strong, it's wise to avoid chewing ice cubes, peanut brittle or other hard and sticky foods.

Find out more

Don't wait any longer to learn how Dr. Wyatt serving the Wheat Ridge and Arvada, CO area can enhance the appearance of your teeth. Contact his Wheat Ridge office today to arrange a cosmetic dentistry consultation. Porcelain veneers could be the solution your smile needs. Call (303) 421-0600 today for an appointment.