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Dental Veneers

Triad Dentistry frequently treats patients who want to fix gaps between their teeth. It’s not uncommon for patients to have uneven or large spaces between teeth for as long as they can remember, or gaps may develop over time. Unfortunately, these gaps often present between the upper two front teeth. When gaps exist between these central incisors, they can be hard to miss. Patients’ confidence about their appearance takes a hit. They may hide a gapped-tooth smile. Tooth veneers in Greensboro, NC at the office of Steven L. Hatcher, DDS use quality materials and precision planning to allow you to smile freely, without embarrassment, again.

Gaps explained

Patients commonly have gaps or extra spaces of varying sizes between their teeth. Sometimes, the teeth that develop are simply too small for the jaw. Conversely, when teeth are too big, the jaw can’t accommodate them, and the opposite problem of crowding arises. In addition to a mismatch in size between the jaws and teeth, habits during a child’s formative years can result in spacing problems; for instance, forceful thumb-sucking and tongue-thrusting can affect the positions of the teeth without proper, early intervention. Triad Dentistry’s board-certified pediatric dentist, Dr. Sona Isharani, is skilled at identifying and addressing damaging habits and problems in early childhood to help avoid misalignment and other spacing issues.

A majority of adults tend to notice their teeth move forward and shift between the ages of 20 and 50. Gum disease plays a role in the development of tooth spacing issues over time. As a progressive condition, periodontal (or gum) disease can eventually cause teeth to splay outwards, which produces unsightly gaps. Additionally, should teeth be lost to untreated, advanced gum disease or tooth decay, neighboring teeth tend to move toward the extraction site – compensating for the lost tooth. This process underscores the importance of replacing teeth sooner rather than later to avoid unwanted complications and the need for more extensive, costly, and time-consuming restorative procedures.

As patients grow older, they may develop bruxism. This condition is characterized by persistent grinding and clenching of the teeth, usually at night during sleep. But some bruxers may grind their teeth subconsciously throughout the day, during episodes of stress or deep concentration. The pressure bruxers place on their teeth can be so severe that it contributes to teeth shifting out of place, as well as other types of damage such as chipped, worn, and cracked teeth.

Bridging the gap, with veneers

Conventional braces and other “brace-less” orthodontic treatments (such as Invisalign) are designed to straighten teeth, using measured forces to gradually reposition them. Veneers are thin shells of high-quality dental porcelain, which Triad Dentistry dentists apply to the surface of each tooth in the smile zone to create the appearance of straighter, more even teeth – without actually moving them through bone. These durable and lifelike shells cover up not only spaces between teeth, but they also camouflage other cosmetic dental concerns, such as very dark stains that resist teeth whitening, or teeth that are chipped from bruxism.

The process of receiving veneers is generally the same, regardless of if you want to close gaps, or add height to a worn-down tooth:

Preparation – A small amount of enamel is removed from the natural tooth (or teeth) to be treated. By reducing each tooth slightly, there is sufficient room to place the veneer in a way where it looks and feels natural. Usually, the amount of enamel that is removed is so small (about as thick as a fingernail or contact lens), that anesthetic to numb the treatment site isn’t necessary. If tooth sensitivity is a concern, your dentist will discuss options to assure comfort well before the appointment date.
Fabrication – To make your veneers, Triad Dentistry collects as much information about your mouth and its unique specifications and characteristics as possible. Impressions are created, which are then used as a model for the dental ceramicists to make your permanent veneers. We partner with trusted outside labs that use skilled artists to create veneers that are indistinguishable from natural and healthy teeth.
Placement – As soon as your veneers are completed, typically in around one to two weeks, you’ll return to Triad Dentistry’s Greensboro, NC office. Your dentist confirms that you are happy with the appearance and feel of your veneers. Small, precision adjustments may also be made at this time, and before the veneers are bonded to your teeth.
Love your new look – We’ll go over how to care for your veneers. Dental porcelain is as strong as it is beautiful; with consistent and good home care and regular check-ups and professional cleanings at our office, you can enjoy your veneered, gap-free smile for years to come. Patients also love that, unlike natural tooth structure, veneers are stain-resistant! So, go ahead and enjoy that latte.

Schedule an appointment at Triad Dentistry to discuss your options to close the gap, or to correct other cosmetic issues. All elective treatments must be performed on healthy mouths, and we’ll assess conditions that may need to be treated before veneers are applied (such as bruxism, which can damage stunning dental porcelain).

What are Dental Veneers by Dr. Steven Hatcher

Are you unhappy with the color, shape, and size of your teeth? Dr. Steven Hatcher from Steven L. Hatcher Greensboro NC explains how they have been doing Veneers at his practice. With the use of Veneers, your teeth can be modified and made any color that you want. Watch the video to learn more about Veneers.

Video Transcript

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: VENEERS

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF VENEERS?

Direct veneers are prepared from composite resin, which is applied, shaped, and bonded directly to teeth. Indirect veneers are thin layers of porcelain, which are made in an outside lab and later bonded to your teeth.

ARE DIRECT VENEERS THE SAME THING AS DENTAL BONDING?

Generally, the procedure of getting direct veneers are referred to as “bonding.” Composite resin direct veneers can be placed in a single appointment, and don’t require the removal of natural tooth enamel. They are affordable but are not as durable as porcelain indirect veneers, which are also stain-resistant.

I’VE HEARD ABOUT ULTRA-THIN VENEERS. WHAT ARE THEY?

Some dentists may advertise very thin, porcelain veneers, which are marketed as requiring the removal of minimal enamel (because they are so thin); however, thanks to modern materials, products, and techniques, all veneers generally require only a very modest reduction in the tooth structure to make room for the porcelain.

CAN PORCELAIN VENEERS BE REMOVED?

Direct porcelain veneers are generally considered to be an “irreversible” procedure, due to the removal of a slight amount of natural enamel. We’re happy to discuss any concerns you may have during your visit to our Greensboro, NC office.

MY TEETH ARE VERY SENSITIVE. AM I STILL A CANDIDATE FOR PORCELAIN VENEERS?

We can’t wait to visit with you. Every patient is different, but generally, so little natural enamel is removed from the tooth, that the procedure is very well tolerated. Most patients don’t require local anesthetic, because discomfort is minimal.

I HAVE CROOKED TEETH. AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR VENEERS?

We won’t know for sure until we visit with you and examine your mouth; however, veneers do not straighten your teeth. They cover up gaps or excess spaces in between teeth. If you have misalignment or problems with your bite, you may be a good candidate for braces or cosmetic (“braceless”) orthodontic treatments.

WHAT PREPARATION IS INVOLVED WITH VENEERS?

In partnership with you, we’ll need to resolve any existing disease or address potential underlying causes of cosmetic issues. Sometimes, spaces between the teeth can be indicative of shifting caused by periodontal or gum health problems. Additionally, veneers are a good opportunity to get whiter, brighter teeth. Since porcelain can’t be whitened, we’ll discuss teeth bleaching treatments with you before the placement of veneers.

HOW DO I CARE FOR VENEERS?

Easily! Treat veneered teeth well, just like your natural teeth. Use a nonabrasive toothpaste and soft-bristled brush. Floss at least once a day. Professional cleanings by our skilled hygienists at least once every six months help to remove stubborn plaque that can’t be removed with good home care alone.

HOW LONG CAN VENEERS LAST?

Modern dental porcelain is known to be extremely strong. To keep veneers looking and functioning “like new,” it’s important to refrain from habits such as teeth-grinding or fingernail-biting that can damage the porcelain material. We’ll discuss ways to maintain your veneers well in advance of their placement; for instance, you may benefit from night guards that protect veneers from the force of chronic teeth-grinding.

DOES INSURANCE COVER VENEERS?

Generally, veneers are an elective procedure. Since they are not considered to be “medically necessary,” most insurance plans won’t cover veneers. The good news is we’re happy to discuss payment plans that reduce financial stress. So, you can get the smile that you deserve!

Triad Dentistry

Dr. Steven Hatcher

A graduate from the University of North Carolina, Dr. Hatcher majored in biology and completed his undergraduate studies there. At UNC, he was awarded a cancer research grant from the National Institutes of Health after which he graduated from dental school.

Dr. Hatcher is a passionate and driven professional who strives to preserve and enhance natural beauty in every dental treatment. He is keen on developing an individualist approach when it comes to treating his patients to ensure patient care is a tailor-made experience for the comfort of each client.

When you look in the mirror, do you just see a gap in your smile, staring back at you? Fear no mirror no more. Triad Dentistry closes your gap (and much more!) with quality porcelain veneers, designed to look and feel like natural and healthy tooth enamel. Call (336) 383-1482 to schedule your appointment at the Greensboro, NC office of Steven L. Hatcher, DDS.