Over recent years, porcelain veneers have surged in popularity for cosmetic dentistry due to their aesthetic appeal and increasingly accessible cost. Standard veneers require the slight removal of dental enamel, however, and that raises concerns for some patients. If this is the case for you, then you should consider ultrathin veneers. How does the dental procedure for ultrathin veneers differ from the traditional veneer process?
The Ultrathin Veneers Procedure
As with standard veneers, you first start with a consultation to discuss your desired results. Following a dental examination, X-rays, digital images, and/or impressions are made of your mouth and teeth. This step confirms that you are a good candidate for ultrathin veneers and prepares for their customized construction.
Unlike standard veneers, which require the removal of a small amount of your tooth’s enamel prior to the bonding, ultrathin veneers are so thin (0.2 to 0.3 millimeters vs 0.5 millimeters) that they require little to no removal of tooth enamel. This makes the procedure less invasive and potentially reversible.
Once your veneers are received from the laboratory, which usually takes 1 – 2 weeks, you return to our Palm Springs office for placement. Your dentist first positions the veneers onto your teeth to evaluate their fit. Then, the front surfaces of your teeth are gently roughened to ensure an effective bond. The veneers are then individually affixed, followed by a bite assessment from your dentist to confirm everything is in order. After a few minor adjustments, the procedure is complete.
Are Ultrathin Veneers Right for You?
Ultrathin veneers are an excellent alternative to standard veneers in the following ways:
- Patients say they are less bulky.
- They are made from the same durable materials, and last as long as standard veneers.
- Since there’s minimal to no enamel removal with ultrathin veneers, the installation process is faster and takes fewer visits to the Tahquitz Dental Group.
- Ultrathin veneers provide a natural appearance, but because they’re so thin, they may not cover deep stains or tooth discolorations as effectively as standard veneers.
If you’re interested in ultrathin veneers, make an appointment with Palm Spring’s Tahquitz Dental Group. We are pleased to help you decide the dental cosmetic treatment that is best for you!
