COSMETIC VENEERS

PERFECT SMILES IN IRVINE, CA

At Tooth Love, we naturally want you to have a smile that you love. Dental veneers represent one of the most convenient ways to improve the appearance of your smile dramatically. As Dr. Joanna Jefferson will tell you during a consult at her Irvine, CA office, veneers are generally appropriate to address cosmetic imperfections among patients with otherwise healthy teeth and gums.

SMILE BOLDLY AND PROUDLY: COSMETIC VENEERS 

Many of the stunning smiles you see on billboards or gracing the faces of your favorite celebrities have been “made over” with veneers. So, yes, they were not born with “perfect” teeth. Think of veneers as layers of non-metal dental material that are precisely matched to the color of your other teeth. The material is then shaped to cover up the teeth that you wish to treat. In turn, the material replaces the tooth enamel that is marred by a variety of cosmetic concerns, including: 

• Chipped teeth 
• Worn teeth
• Gaps between teeth 
• Irregularly-shaped teeth 
• Badly discolored teeth that resist professional whitening methods

The material disguises these and other flaws. Veneers may be designed from composite resin, often an acrylic-based material that also contains glass particles. It can also be made with dental porcelain. Both of these materials are prepared to look, feel, and function like natural teeth. Composite resin veneers are also known as direct veneers because the prepared material is applied directly to the teeth. It is used in a putty-like form. So, Dr. Jefferson can expertly shape the composite to cover up excess spaces between teeth or other irregularities. Porcelain, however, is known as an indirect veneer. These veneers are made in a lab. Since each veneer must fit over the top of the natural tooth, some enamel must be removed. In this manner, the veneer fits nicely over the tooth. While not a completely “prepless” option, modern porcelain veneers generally require minimal removal of natural tooth structure as each veneer is relatively thin. The composite or direct veneers are truly prepless and can be placed on an unaltered tooth structure. This method is also known as dental bonding. 

There are trade-offs with every procedure. Bonding is generally well-tolerated, as no enamel is removed. That also makes it a reversible process. Bonding is also more affordable than porcelain veneers. However, porcelain is often coveted because it mimics enamel so well. It is solid and long-lasting, and it also resists stains.

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION TODAY!

Dr. Jefferson may suggest alternatives to both types of veneers. These include Invisalign®. Clear aligners may be used to reposition teeth in the “smile zone.” Such cosmetic straightening is a conservative treatment, which requires no alteration of the natural tooth with the removal of enamel or with the addition of dental materials. Love your smile!

Start the process by calling Tooth Love at (949) 444-5656.