What are dental veneers?

Cosmetic dentistry has improved greatly over the years. Instead of restorations looking fake and unnatural, everything done within the smile now is discreet and enhances appearance quickly and easily. One way patients can achieve a more beautiful smile is with dental veneers.

Dental veneers are extremely thin porcelain restorations. They are bonded over the front of natural teeth. This is done to cover imperfections such as misalignment, permanent staining, gaps between teeth, and even fractures. Dr. Munira Lokhandwala of Fremont’s StarBrite Dental may suggest dental veneers to patients who want coverage to disguise problem areas of their smile in an affordable, effective, and natural-looking way.

The process of receiving dental veneers takes approximately two weeks. It starts with a consultation appointment. During this appointment, patients will discuss the possibility of using veneers for their smiles. Alternative solutions such as composite resin dental bonding may also be considered. However, many patients choose dental veneers because they are long-lasting and stain-resistant. Then, the teeth must be prepared. This requires the removal of a thin portion of the enamel from the front of the teeth to ensure the new veneer does not add unwanted bulk. Molds are made and sent out to a dental laboratory where a ceramist will fabricate the veneers and send them to the dentist, typically within a week or two. The next appointment allows the patient to have their new veneers adhered into place using dental bonding material.

Veneers are easy to care for. They are bonded onto the teeth to look and feel like natural enamel. Many patients forget they have them. Brushing, flossing, and regular dental appointments are necessary to maintain the health of the teeth underneath the veneers and to protect them from disease and decay.

Dr. Munira Lokhandwala and the team of StarBrite Dental are available to help patients in and around the Fremont and San Jose communities with their general and cosmetic dental needs. Contact our office today to book a consultation appointment and educate yourself on the many advantages of veneers.

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