You’ve probably flipped open an issue of People magazine and seen a perfect, brilliant smile staring back at you. That smile likely looked different not very long ago. With today’s gorgeous dental materials, veneers can transform facial appearance dramatically in just a couple of visits. Sometimes acting like “instant orthodontics,” a set of veneers can correct chips, stains, and even deeply discolored teeth. But they can also alter the length and size of teeth, or help teeth that seem rotated suddenly appear straight. While it sounds dramatic, the journey from one smile to another is actually within reach of many patients.
Veneers form the ultimate marriage of dental art and science, handcrafted and customized to fit your smile precisely. Like a contact lens, these paper-thin pieces of porcelain bond to the outside of your natural teeth. But don’t be fooled by the thin characteristics of this material. Many unique and durable features can be incorporated into the ceramics, replicating any look you want to create.
While veneers provide a conservative way to repair bad teeth, the process requires a high level of training to produce accurately. At Hixson Dental, you’re in the right place with our background in cosmetic dentistry.
One Size DOESN’T Fit All
Careful planning of your new smile is vital to a successful outcome, regardless of the materials used. Models, photographs, and digital x-rays allow you and Dr. Hixson to create a perfect blueprint to direct your case from start to finish. Like all successful projects, this planning can’t be compromised. He will consider your input and incorporate your desires into your veneer case. Color, shape and other subtle factors all work into your new look.
After planning, it usually only takes two appointments to leave you with a stunning new smile. At the first visit, some areas of the teeth are gently prepared to allow space for a masterful lab technician to sculpt porcelain into place. Dr. Hixson provides all the information to the specialized lab that’s needed to create your personal masterpiece.
Dr. Hixson also usually produces acrylic temporary restorations that mimic the veneers. These temporary restorations, worn for 2-3 weeks in most cases, provide a preview of the general appearance of your new smile. If a subtle change in size or length seems needed, this appointment offers a perfect time for your input.
Delivering The Magic
After hours of custom craftwork in the lab, you’ll return for a second appointment. Dr. Hixson will try in each veneer and evaluate the appearance and fit, giving you an opportunity to approve the new look. He will then go through several precise steps to bond the thin veneers to the outer surface of your teeth, creating an incredibly strong link between tooth and porcelain. Minor adjustments to your bite and a final polish will leave you with a smile that may have you wondering why you waited so long to find Hixson Dental! And who knows, maybe we’ll see you smiling from the pages of People magazine…
