Composite veneers are similar to porcelain veneers, minor tooth reduction is sometimes necessary to correct any minor discrepancy with the tooth and to create room for the composite resin.
Composite veneers can correct alignment issues, discolorations, chips or misshapen teeth. One benefit of the composite veneers is that they typically can be completed in one visit after the initial consultation visit. They are directly placed on the teeth by Dr. Fleming while you sit back and relax.
Ask Dr. Fleming about composite veneers and he will be able to tell you if they are right for you.
Signs you may need veneers
- Cracked, chipped, or broken teeth
- Stained or discolored teeth from coffee or tobacco
- Misaligned, uneven, or irregularly shaped teeth
- Worn teeth due to age
- Regular whitening products aren’t working
- Single or multiple gaps in between teeth
Benefits of composite veneers
- Provide a natural tooth appearance
- Less expensive than porcelain veneers
- Faster preparation and application times
- Easily repairable
- Can cover up many aesthetic problems, including misshapen teeth, discolorations, and other defects
Composite Veneer Procedure
Dr. Fleming will determine if you need direct or indirect veneers on your initial visit. He will then start the process by cleaning your teeth thoroughly and preparing them for the application. He may have to remove a thin layer of your enamel to help the material stick to your teeth. Sometimes, your teeth don’t need to be cut if minor changes to shape or color are needed.
Direct Composite Veneers
The enamel of your teeth will be etched to help with adhesion. Next, an adhesive glue will be applied to help the composite resin material stick to your teeth. Lastly, very thin layers of the composite material are added to the surface of your teeth.
Your teeth will then “cure” or quickly harden the layers of the composite resin with a light. You and Dr. Fleming will be able to pick the shade or color you want for your veneers. He can also mix composite resin colors to make your veneers look natural.
Indirect Composite Veneers
A mold of your teeth will be taken after preparation. Indirect veneers are fabricated outside of your mouth. When the indirect veneers are ready, Dr. Fleming will apply them by etching your teeth and then applying a type of adhesive material to your teeth. This adhesive or bonding agent will help the veneers stay in place.
The composite veneers will then be placed onto your teeth. A light is used to harden the adhesive and glue the veneers to the teeth. Afterward, Dr. Fleming will clean up any stray edges and polish everything up.
Many people don’t need anesthesia during the process. But if you do, once the anesthesia wears off, you should be fine to return to work or other normal activities.