What To Do If A Veneer Comes Off  

/0 Comments/in /by

Dental veneers are an effective way to mask minor dental imperfections. They’re attractive, durable and reliable. However, that’s not to say they’re infallible. Quality dental veneers in West Salem, WI can last for decades, but they don’t last forever. If your dental veneer unexpectedly falls off, here’s what you should do next.

Remain Calm

As mentioned even the best dental veneers don’t last forever. If your dental veneer comes off, it just means that you need to visit your dentist to reattach it or get a new veneer. It’s important to get it replaced, but it’s not catastrophic. In a very short time, you’ll have your beautiful smile back again.

Retain the Veneer

If at all possible, find the dental veneer and keep it, so you can give it to your dentist. A good way to locate a veneer that’s fallen on the floor is to lay down and shine a flashlight parallel to the floor. The veneer will likely be easily found this way.

Place it inside a small container where it won’t bounce around too much, such as an empty contact lens case, a matchbox or something similar. Avoid wrapping it in tissue, as filaments may adhere to its surface, making it harder to reuse.

Don’t Try to Reattach it Yourself

Attempts at reattaching it yourself will likely only make matters worse. First, the adhesive is compromised, so you may “stick” it on, only to lose it again and not be able to find it the second time. Second, using OTC dental adhesives to reattach it will only complicate the process of replacing the veneer.

Once you’ve located the veneer and have it properly contained, contact your dentist in West Salem, WI to get the situation resolved. Contact us today to book your next appointment, or for help with your dental veneers.

Can Tooth Rot Happen Beneath Veneers?

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells of porcelain or composite resin material that are designed to cover the front surface of your teeth, improving their appearance and creating a beautiful, even smile. However, many patients may wonder if tooth decay or rot can occur beneath these seemingly impenetrable coverings.

Tooth Decay With Veneers is Possible

While veneers do provide a protective layer for the visible part of the tooth, they don’t cover the entire tooth structure. The areas where the veneer doesn’t cover, particularly near the gum line or between teeth, remain susceptible to decay. If proper oral hygiene is neglected, plaque and bacteria can accumulate in these areas, leading to tooth rot under the veneer.

Proper Veneer Bonding is Crucial

The bonding process between the veneer and your natural tooth is essential in preventing tooth decay beneath the veneer. A well-bonded veneer can help seal out bacteria and food particles, reducing the risk of tooth rot. It’s important to have your veneers placed by an experienced dentist in West Salem, WI to ensure a strong bond and minimize the likelihood of decay underneath.

The Importance of Regular Dental Check-ups

Regular dental check-ups are crucial in detecting any signs of tooth decay beneath your veneers. Your dentist can spot early signs of decay or issues with the veneer’s bonding and take appropriate action to prevent further damage. It’s recommended that you visit your dentist at least twice a year for routine examinations and professional cleanings.

Choose High-quality Veneers

Investing in high-quality veneers made from durable materials can help minimize the risk of tooth rot underneath. Porcelain veneers, for example, are less porous than composite resin, making them more resistant to stains and decay. Consult with your dentist to determine the best type of veneer material for your unique needs and preferences.

Tooth rot can indeed occur beneath veneers, but with proper dental care, regular check-ups, and high-quality veneers in West Salem, WI, you can minimize the risk and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. Contact us today to learn more.

The Different Types of Dental Veneers

/0 Comments/in /by

Dental veneers are thin shells that are designed to cover the front of your teeth to enhance their appearance. They are made from materials such as porcelain or composite resin and can be used to correct a variety of cosmetic issues, including chips, cracks, stains, and gaps in your teeth. There are two main types of dental veneers. You and your dentist in West Salem, WI can decide which are right for you.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are made from a thin layer of porcelain and are generally considered to be the most natural-looking and durable option. They are resistant to staining and can be color-matched to your existing teeth. However, they are more expensive than composite veneers and may require more than one dental visit to be applied.

Composite Veneers

Composite resin veneers are made from a mixture of plastic and fine glass particles. They can be molded and shaped to fit your teeth and are typically applied in one visit. They are less expensive than porcelain veneers and can be repaired more easily if they become damaged. However, they are not as durable as porcelain veneers and may not last as long. They may also stain more easily and may not be as resistant to wear and tear.

Your dentist will answer all of your questions so you can make an informed decision about which type of veneers in West Salem, WI are best for you, based on your specific needs and preferences. Both types of veneers can give you a beautiful, natural-looking smile and can improve the appearance of your teeth.

Keep in mind that veneers are not suitable for everyone and are not a solution for every dental issue. Be sure to discuss all of your options with your dentist before making a decision. To book an appointment, please contact us today.

Improve Your Smile with Dental Veneers  

/0 Comments/in /by

Do you instinctively not show your teeth when you smile because you feel self-conscious about a minor cosmetic problem? Whether you have a permanently stained tooth, a chip or crack in a tooth, or a wider than usual gap between two teeth, these problems are easy to correct with dental veneers. This simple and affordable cosmetic dentistry procedure can give you the smile you have always wanted after just two visits.

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers in West Salem, WI are thin pieces of ceramic material that fit over the front of a tooth. Dr. Allen and his dental team take extra care to match the shade of the veneer as closely as possible to the natural shade of your teeth. No one will know you have had a cosmetic dentistry service performed unless you choose to tell them.

What to Expect When Receiving Dental Veneers

Your initial consultation at Allen Dental is an opportunity to discuss your goals with cosmetic dentistry and to learn more about this specific procedure. During your next appointment, Dr. Allen removes up to one-eight of a millimeter of tooth enamel from the tooth receiving the veneer. Removing a small amount of tooth enamel is necessary to reduce bulk and prevent your treated tooth from protruding further than the rest.

Next, Dr. Allen applies dental sealant to the back of the veneer and to the front of your tooth. He then shines a curing light on your tooth to bond the dental veneer permanently. You will need to take care not to stain the veneer by avoiding coffee, tea, and dark-colored wine as much as possible once Dr. Allen finishes the procedure.

Ready to learn more about dental veneers in West Salem, WI? Contact Allen Dental to request your initial cosmetic dentistry consultation today.

 

Aren’t Veneers Only For Celebrities?

/0 Comments/in , /by

If you think that dental veneers are only for celebrities, you’re not alone. Because people often don’t talk about getting veneers, there’s a wide misperception that this is a cosmetic dental treatment that is only for famous people.

The History of Dental Veneers

In past decades, the treatment for covering up teeth was commonly called caps. Because caps disguised imperfect teeth, many celebrities jumped on the trend. Everyone from newscasters to local businessmen to movie stars got caps on their teeth. Caps were very good for their time, but that treatment has since been replaced by dental veneers.

Dental Veneers Are Readily Available

Dental veneers in West Salem, WI are readily available, and you don’t have to be a celebrity or work in the public eye to get dental veneers. Dental veneers are not perceptible to others because they are so realistic looking. Because of their availability, affordability and authentic appearance, dental veneers are popular with “everyday” people just like you. In fact, it’s likely that someone you know has veneers and you don’t even realize it.

Why Get Dental Veneers?

There are many reasons why a person might benefit from getting dental veneers. The first is a situation where there are minor imperfections in the teeth. Dental veneers cover up these minor imperfections and make teeth appear natural and free from imperfections. If you have permanently stained teeth, dental veneers are a great solution, too. Finally, dental veneers can disguise gaps in the teeth due to teeth shifting as the years go on.

Dental Veneers Aren’t Just For Celebrities

Anyone who wants to improve their smile, have more confidence or just feel better about themselves can get dental veneers. Talk to your dentist about dental veneers in West Salem, WI. Your dentist will be able to answer all of your questions about this amazing dental treatment.

Are Veneers Worth the Price?

/0 Comments/in , /by

Veneers can run more than a thousand per tooth, so it’s no wonder the sticker shock has people asking if they’re really worth it. Because they’re deemed a largely cosmetic procedure, insurance companies aren’t going to cover it either. We’ll look at the benefits of veneers, why they cost as much as they do, and why they may not be as cosmetic as you think.

Why Get Veneers?

Veneers are known for fixing everything from crooked to yellowing teeth. They’re not magic per se, but they can cover all kinds of imperfections while restoring your mouth at the same time.

Because veneers can correct for issues like gaps in the teeth, they can also make it easier to maintain your dental hygiene routines. For instance, it will be easier to brush and floss if you’re working with a full set of teeth. This is one benefit that most insurance companies don’t always acknowledge, but can be the key to staving off lasting oral damage.

What Happens When You Get Veneers?

Veneers are more than just putting a gloss over your teeth. The dentist will actually need to shave down part of the tooth and then cover it with a customized layer. If you’re looking for veneers in West Salem, WI, you should know that it will take more than one visit to get done.

Find a Dentist in West Salem

If you’re looking for a dentist in West Salem, WI, Allen Dental is here to help you get the smile you’ve always wanted. Our staff can evaluate whether you’re a good candidate for veneers or if there’s an even better (and more affordable option) for you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a mega-watt grin.

Differences Between Dental Crowns and Veneers

/0 Comments/in , /by

When you want to improve the look and function of your teeth, dental restoration methods such as dental crowns and veneers may be two viable options. But if you’re like most people, you may think there is no difference in either option. If so, you’re wrong. To ensure you make an informed decision, here are the major differences between crowns and veneers, which you can discuss with your dentist in West Salem.

Thickness Variations

To begin with, there are thickness variations between dental crowns and veneers in West Salem. For example, a veneer is an extremely thin piece of porcelain that measures only about one millimeter thick, while a dental crown is about two millimeters thick.

Just the Front, or the Whole Tooth?

In addition to their thickness variations, there are differences regarding just how much of your tooth is covered by a crown or veneer. When you have veneers, they are bonded just to the front of your existing tooth. But with crowns in West Salem, they will cover your entire tooth.

Damaged Teeth vs. Healthy Teeth

When your West Salem dentist recommends a crown as your best restoration method, it is often because your tooth is extremely worn, cracked, or has a root canal or large filling. However, a veneer can be used when your tooth is for the most part intact, you need only minor shape corrections, and the restoration is being done only for cosmetic purposes.

Does One Cost More than the Other?

This is a hard question to answer, since dental costs can vary widely. Generally speaking, veneers cost less than dental crowns, especially if you opt for composite rather than porcelain veneers. However, be aware that composite veneers may only last five to seven years, so you may need to get them replaced somewhat frequently.

To learn whether dental crowns or veneers are right for you, visit your dentist in West Salem for a consultation.

What Are Veneers? An FAQ

/0 Comments/in , /by

Dental veneers are an important tool in cosmetic dentistry. Well-installed dental veneers can change everything about the look of your teeth, whether they’re stained, crooked or otherwise damaged. While dental veneers are a very helpful option for the right patient, many people don’t know much about dental veneers, what they’re used for, and so on. Here’s what you need to know about dental veneers in West Salem, WI.

What Is a Dental Veneer?

A dental veneer is a thin covering placed over the front of the tooth to provide the appearance that the tooth is healthy, white, straight, and so on. Dental veneers are not structural – they simply help dental patients with cosmetic challenges.

What Are the Different Types of Dental Veneers?

There are two different kinds of dental veneers: composite and porcelain. Porcelain is long-lasting and very durable but can be impossible to repair when damaged. The only way to fix a damaged porcelain veneer is to replace it.

Composite veneers do not last as long as porcelain veneers. However, they’re easier to fix and can often be repaired without replacing the veneer.

How Long to Dental Veneers Last?

Composite veneers typically last between 5 and 7 years, while porcelain veneers last between 10 and 15. How long your dental veneers will last depends on how well you take care of your teeth, eating habits and more.

Which Type of Dental Veneer is Right For Me?

Your dentist can help you decide whether composite or porcelain veneers are right for you. This will depend on the state of your teeth, your budget, and other factors. To find out about more about getting dental veneers, contact your dentist in West Salem. Call Allen Dental today to make an appointment and get started!

 

What Happens to Your Natural Teeth When You Get Veneers?

/0 Comments/in , /by

 There’s a lot of information about dental veneers. Primarily, the information is about what kinds of veneers are available, how they are applied, how long they last, and the many benefits of veneers. But many people also want to know, what happens to your natural teeth when you get veneers?

Veneers in West Salem, WI

When you get veneers in West Salem, WI, the first thing that your dentist will do is to conduct a thorough exam of your natural teeth and gums. Veneers form a permanent “layer” over your natural teeth, so it’s important the veneers don’t cover certain problems such as exposed nerves or cavities. Any underlying issues will need to be addressed before you get veneers. In most cases, this is just a routine step that doesn’t delay your getting veneers by very long.

Preparing the Natural Teeth

Because veneers are permanent, the natural teeth must be prepared before the veneers are applied. Veneers are applied with a permanent kind of “cement” that adheres to the surface of the natural tooth. Although this dental adherent is very strong, it does better when the natural tooth’s surface is a little bit rough. For that reason, your natural teeth surface will be roughened up a bit. This just makes the adhesion stronger between the tooth and the veneer.

Another treatment that needs to be done is reshaping the natural tooth. In order to preserve the natural-looking profile of the final result, your natural teeth must be reshaped. This involves filing down the tooth so that the ends are narrowed. This ensures that the natural tooth doesn’t stand out from behind the veneer.

Because of the permanence of veneers, these are permanent changes to your natural teeth. While your natural teeth can always remain healthy, they must always be hidden behind the veneers. For more information about veneers, please contact our office.

 

Composite vs. Porcelain Veneers: A Look at the Pros and Cons of Each

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Veneers allow individuals with cosmetic concerns about their smiles to see a quick and easy smile transformation. If you have considered veneers for yourself, you likely have discovered the two primary types: porcelain and composite. To help you decide which dental veneers are right for you, here is a look at the pros and cons of each type.

Composite Veneers

Composite veneers are created out of a resinous material. These dental veneers are a common choice because of their economical price and durability. Additionally, they are a good choice in a situation when a patient needs a quick-fix for a cosmetic issue, such as a chipped or cracked tooth. However, there are a few pros and cons to consider.

Pros

  • Composite veneers can be created quickly
  • The veneers look natural
  • Can last for anywhere from four to eight years with the proper care

Cons

  • Not quite as durable as porcelain veneers
  • May become porous and discolor with age

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers have maintained their popularity over the years because of their resiliency and most natural appearance. Of course, porcelain veneers can take longer to create, so they are not usually recommended for a patient that needs a rapid fix for a smile problem. Here is a look at the pros and cons.

Pros

  • May last as long as 10 years or more with the proper care
  • Less likely to grow porous and develop discoloration
  • Provide a realistic appearance

Cons

  • Creation of porcelain veneers can take a bit longer
  • Can be more costly than composite veneers
  • Maybe more prone to cracking with direct force

Talk to a Cosmetic Dentist in West Salem About Dental Veneers

Smiling with confidence is ever important, and dental veneers may make that possible. If you would like to know more about dental veneers, reach out to us at Allen Dental in West Salem, Wisconsin to schedule an appointment.