When the smile has been compromised by cosmetic imperfections, most patients are eager to treat blemishes and improve the aesthetics of the teeth. One of the most versatile and effective cosmetic dentistry treatments is porcelain veneers. Porcelain veneers bond to the facial surface of the teeth to conceal cosmetic flaws such as chips, cracks, and discoloration. Porcelain veneers greatly improve the appearance of the smile, but traditional veneers require at least two dental appointments, typically scheduled a couple of weeks apart. Dr. Danny O’Keefe utilizes CEREC® 3D porcelain veneers to our Jackson, MS patients. Thanks to CEREC® technology, patients can achieve an enhanced smile in just a single dental appointment.
Treatment with CEREC® 3D porcelain veneers begins just like treatment for traditional veneers. The teeth will need to be prepared for the veneers. This preparation requires the removal of a thin layer of tooth enamel. By removing this enamel, we can ensure that the porcelain veneers will sit closely to the teeth and blend in with the natural smile.
Once the teeth have been prepared, we will take impressions of the teeth. This is where the CEREC® procedure begins to differ from that of traditional veneers. CEREC® technology uses an optical impression. Dr. O’Keefe will coat the tooth (or teeth) with a non-toxic, tasteless powder. Within just a couple of minutes, Dr. O’Keefe will have digital images from which to model the 3D porcelain veneers.
Once images have been taken, they will be sent to the CEREC® software. The CEREC® software takes these optical impressions and converts them into a virtual 3D model. Dr. O’Keefe will use this 3D model to design the patient’s unique porcelain veneers. The final design specifications will be sent to our in-office milling machine. This machine creates the restorations using a block of ceramic that has been matched to the patient’s natural tooth color.
This whole process takes just 10 to 20 minutes. When the porcelain veneers are complete, they will be bonded to the patient’s teeth. CEREC® 3D porcelain veneers require just a small fraction of the treatment time that is necessary for traditional veneers. By the end of a single dental appointment, patients can completely transform their smile.
Porcelain veneers mask cosmetic flaws to provide patients with a brighter, more beautiful smile. In addition to these benefits, CEREC® 3D porcelain veneers provide patients with advantages that are unique to this technique. Some of the benefits of CEREC® technology include the following:
Thanks to CEREC® 3D technology, Dr. Danny O’Keefe can provide patients with a stronger, healthier, and more attractive smile in just a single day. If you would like to learn more about CEREC® 3D porcelain veneers, contact us at your earliest convenience.