

During the initial visit, the patient and special chosen dentist discuss the
process of placing veneers and the options available (e.g. types and shades of
veneers).
If applicable you may find yourself having a discussion about a more suitable
treatment such as whitening and bonding or minimal orthodontics depending on
your needs and suitability.

A comprehensive examination is done including x-rays and study models (as
required) to ensure your suitability for one of the options discussed

You will be given a fully itemised treatment plan detailing the treatment steps,
time intervals and length of expected treatment. We give a consent form
explaining what to expect and advice sheets particular to your treatment.

Dental Smile Mock – Ups (wax-ups)
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A Dental Wax-Up’ takes the discussion between the dentist and patient and
communicates this to the dental laboratory so a life-size preview of the
proposed veneers can be made in tooth-coloured wax. This gives a real visual
ability to see the new veneers before the teeth are touched.

Provided the veneers are the best option and the supporting structures (gums,
bones etc) are optimal then on your next visit the dentist removes a very small
layer of each tooth’s outer enamel. A local anaesthesia may be used, but is
typically not necessary with lumineers and some minimal intervention cases. The
dentist makes a mould of the teeth and then sends it to a dental lab where they
create customized
veneers for the teeth. The lab prepares
the veneers in roughly seven to ten days. During this time, the teeth have a
slightly different appearance because of the removal of the outer layer of
enamel. The wax – ups are used to build temporary tooth surfaces that have the
same ‘look and feel’ as permanent dental veneers. This step may not be necessary
with minimal or lumineers cases.

Once the veneers have returned from the lab, the patient makes their final
dental visit. The dentist applies the veneer to the tooth using a bonding
material. When exposed to light, this bonding material dries and hardens.

Patients may experience some initial sensitivity in the teeth, especially with
contact to hot or cold substances. This sensitivity should lessen within two
weeks.
If you grind or clench your teeth while you sleep, your dentist can fit you with
a mouthguard to protect the teeth. Veneers are quite strong and can withstand
considerable force when a patient bites down, but they may fracture or break if
twisted. Patients should therefore avoid hard objects ie biting directly into a
fork that may cause undue stress. Veneers should be cared for in much the same
way as normal teeth, this includes daily brushing, flossing, and periodic
check-ups with a dentist. Given the proper care, veneers can keep you smiling
for decades to come.
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