Porcelain Veneers in Lake Oswego

If you find your smile has lost a little of its luster or chipped teeth have prevented you from showing off your smile, Dr. Larry Bowden of Aesthetic Dentistry of Lake Oswego might recommend porcelain veneers. These simple shells can obscure minor dental flaws, drastically improving the look of your smile. Keep reading to learn more about this minimally invasive smile transformation method. 

What Are Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers, also known as porcelain dental veneers or just veneers,  are a thin layer of porcelain material that adheres to the surface of the tooth, custom-made for the person who is getting them. They’re used to improve the appearance of teeth by changing their color, shape, size, or length. Porcelain veneers can be used to address various dental issues such as discoloration, misshapen teeth, and minor chips, providing a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution.

At Aesthetic Dentistry of Lake Oswego, Dr. Bowden approaches porcelain veneers with a holistic lens, prioritizing biocompatible, metal-free materials that support your long-term systemic wellness. By ensuring your new smile is harmoniously aligned with your natural neuromuscular bite, we protect not just the aesthetics of your teeth, but the overall health and balance of your body.

You may qualify for veneers if any of the following apply to you:

• Healthy Tooth Enamel: Candidates for porcelain veneers should have sufficient healthy tooth enamel, which provides a stable foundation for the veneers to adhere to.
• Good Oral Health: Maintaining good oral hygiene and overall dental health is essential for being a suitable candidate for porcelain veneers.
• Desire for Aesthetic Enhancement: Individuals seeking cosmetic improvement and a positive change in the appearance of their teeth can qualify for porcelain veneers.
• Proper Bite Alignment: Candidates should have a reasonably well-aligned bite, so the veneers can function harmoniously with the existing dental structure. For more severe cases of misalignment, orthodontic treatment may be necessary. 
• Realistic Expectations: Having reasonable expectations regarding the outcomes of porcelain veneers is important, as they offer enhancement but not a complete overhaul of one’s smile.

The Porcelain Veneers Process

Consultation

The journey begins with a consultation with your Lake Oswego cosmetic dentist, Dr. Bowden. During this step, you’ll discuss your smile goals, concerns, and expectations with Dr. Bowden. He’ll assess your dental health and determine if porcelain veneers are the right solution for you. Your consultation is a great time to ask any questions or voice any concerns you may have. 

Design

Once you decide to proceed, Dr. Bowden will collaborate with you to design your ideal smile. Digital imaging may be used to create a detailed blueprint of the veneers’ shape, size, and color, for a personalized and natural look.

Preparation

To prepare your teeth for your new veneers, a small amount of your tooth enamel, usually about half a millimeter, is gently removed. This creates room for the veneers and ensures a proper fit. An impression of your teeth is taken and sent to a dental laboratory, where skilled technicians craft your custom porcelain veneers.

Placement

When your veneers are ready, typically in a couple of weeks, you’ll return for the placement procedure. Dr. Bowden will begin by temporarily placing the veneers on your teeth to ensure a precise fit and color match. Adjustments can be made at this stage to guarantee the best results.

Bonding

With the final approval, we will clean, polish, and etch your teeth to create an ideal surface for bonding. A specialized adhesive is applied to each veneer, and they are meticulously placed on your teeth. A curing light activates the adhesive, securing the veneers in place.

Finishing Touches

 Dr. Bowden will check your bite and make any necessary adjustments to ensure the veneers seamlessly blend with your natural teeth, creating a cohesive and beautiful smile.

Follow-Up

A follow-up appointment is usually scheduled after a week or so to assess your comfort and ensure that the veneers are functioning as intended. Any necessary fine-tuning can be done during this visit

1. Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene: Brush at least twice daily using a non-abrasive toothpaste and a toothbrush with soft bristles. Floss once daily to eliminate plaque and food particles between your teeth and around the veneers.
2. Choose a Non-Alcohol Mouthwash: If you use mouthwash, select an alcohol-free option. Alcohol can weaken the bonding of the veneers, potentially leading to issues down the line.
3. Avoid Staining Substances: Minimize foods and beverages that discolor teeth, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored sauces. Rinse your mouth with water afterward if you do consume them.
4. Limit Acidic Foods and Drinks: Acidic foods and drinks can weaken tooth enamel, including the enamel of your natural teeth and the adhesive that holds your veneers. Consume these in moderation and rinse your mouth with water afterward.
5. Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools: Avoid using your veneers (or natural teeth) to open packages, bite nails, or perform any actions that could exert excess force on them. Veneers are durable, but unnecessary stress can damage them.
6. Protect Against Grinding: If you grind your teeth at night, consider wearing a night guard. Grinding can potentially damage your veneers and natural teeth, affecting both appearance and functionality.
7. Regular Dental Check-Ups: Maintain your routine dental check-ups and cleanings. Your Lake Oswego cosmetic dentist can monitor the condition of your veneers and address any issues early.
8. Communicate with Your Dentist: If you experience any discomfort or sensitivity, or notice changes in your veneers, call Aesthetic Dentistry of Lake Oswego by dialing (503) 675-7300 promptly. Early intervention can prevent potential problems from worsening.
9. Sports Mouthguard: If you participate in contact sports or activities with a risk of dental injury, wear a mouthguard to protect your veneers and teeth.

Call Aesthetic Dentistry of Lake Oswego; Transform Your Smile Today!

If you’re seeking a convenient method to unlock the full potential of your smile, look no further than porcelain veneers. Whether your goal is to refine the shape of your teeth or to achieve a harmonious smile, veneers offer a powerful solution for smile enhancement. 

If you’re eager to learn more about the remarkable benefits of our porcelain veneers or ready to elevate your smile to new heights, reach out to our Lake Oswego office at (503) 675-7300. You can also request an appointment online. Proudly serving Lake Oswego and the neighboring areas, including Portland, Tualatin, Wilsonville, Beaverton, Tigard, and Sherwood, OR. Your radiant new smile awaits!