Veneers Q & A

What is a dental veneer?

A dental veneer, also called a laminate, is a wafer thin shell of porcelain that is directly bonded to the front of a tooth’s surface to correct a wide range of flaws. Each porcelain laminate is tinted to match a patient’s natural teeth and custom-crafted to fit his or her smile.

What flaws can a veneer correct?

Veneers offer protection and can dramatically improve the appearance of an individual’s smile. Among the flaws these coverings can correct are:

• Broken teeth

• Discoloration

• Pits and gaps

• Uneven tooth edges

• Teeth that appear small

• Worn teeth

• Crooked teeth

Veneers are not suitable for teeth with excessive decay. In such cases, porcelain crowns are a better solution.

Is the procedure painful?

The procedure typically entails two visits to Dr. Paik's office and is minimally painful. A local anesthetic can be administered to numb the area as the tooth is prepared for the veneer. Preparing the tooth requires removing about 1/2 millimeter of enamel from the surface. This is the same thickness that the veneer will add to the tooth’s surface.

How long does a veneer usually last?

Every patient is different. But for most, veneers last between 10 and 15 years.

What are the Benefits of Dental Veneers?

Veneers are an excellent solution for many cosmetic dental issues. They look completely natural and can dramatically improve a patient’s appearance without surgery. Unlike crowns, with veneers, a patient’s natural teeth remain largely intact. Only a minimal amount of enamel is removed in order to fit the veneer. This treatment is also painless and the recovery time is minimal. An extra benefit: Unlike natural teeth porcelain veneers are stain resistant. This helps keep them white and bright, even for patients who drink coffee, tea or red wine.

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Crowns Q & A

What is a dental crown?

Crowns, sometimes called “caps,” are dental prosthetics created to protect and repair teeth that are damaged or decayed. With today’s advanced materials, crowns can be made to look nearly identical in both shape and color to a patient’s natural teeth. They are secured to damaged teeth with a durable bonding adhesive, providing both an aesthetic repair and protection from further damage. Crowns are also used to top dental implants. Having a crown installed usually entails two appointments. At the first visit, a mold is taken from which the crown is custom fabricated. During this initial appointment, Dr. Paik will also place a temporary crown on the damaged tooth. At the second visit, the permanent crown is installed.

When is a crown necessary?

Crowns offer an effective solution to a number of dental issues, including:

• Protecting a tooth that has had a root canal treatment

• Correcting a discolored or misshapen tooth

• To mount on a dental implant

• Securing a bridge

• Provide protection for a weakened tooth

• As a substitute for a large filling

What are crowns made of?

All-porcelain crowns, which can be tinted to match a patient’s neighboring teeth, are preferred when used on teeth that are readily visible to others. Crowns may also be made of porcelain fused to a metal base. While extremely durable, these crowns frequently cause the tooth to have a grey or silver tint or a thin grey line along your gum line. Therefore, they are typically only used on back teeth.

Is a crown permanent?

Crowns are meant to last a lifetime, and usually, do when correctly cared for. However, if a crown becomes damaged, loose, or falls off, it can easily be repaired by Dr. Paik during a visit to the office.

How are crowns cared for?

Crowns require the same good oral hygiene as natural teeth. They should be brushed twice a day with a with fluoride toothpaste and flossed at least once a day. Visiting the dentist twice a year for a professional cleaning and checkup also insurance the long-term durability of crowns. To prevent damaging crowns, avoid chewing hard foods or ice.