Veneers

Veneers can transform your smile and mask minor oral imperfections, like chips, stains, or gaps between teeth. At Proud to Smile Dentistry in Bernardsville, New Jersey, Patricia Swaintek-Lamb, DMD, Karima West, RDH, and the team regularly use veneers to help patients feel more confident about their smiles. Dr. Swaintek-Lamb develops personalized treatment plans to help patients achieve their desired results, breaking the process down step-by-step. Call Proud to Smile Dentistry today to request a veneer consultation or book your appointment online.

What are veneers?

Veneers are thin porcelain shells that Dr. Swaintek-Lamb bonds to the front surfaces of your teeth. Once placed, the veneers cover oral imperfections, making your smile appear more symmetrical and attractive.

Dr. Swaintek-Lamb never rushes the treatment process. You even have the opportunity to get a “trial smile” created so you can see how the veneers will look.

What types of cosmetic problems can veneers address?

At Proud to Smile Dentistry, Dr. Swaintek-Lamb and the team use veneers to address various cosmetic problems, including:

• Chipped teeth
• Gaps between the teeth
• Stains and discoloration that don’t improve with teeth whitening
• Smaller-than-average teeth
• Pointy teeth

Some people only get one or two veneers, but Dr. Swaintek-Lamb recommends getting between six and eight to ensure balance.

What does getting veneers involve?

Dr. Swaintek-Lamb reviews your dental records, completes an oral exam, and takes a series of oral X-rays. To get veneers, you need healthy teeth and gums, so if you have cavities or periodontal disease, Dr. Swaintek-Lamb treats those problems first. 

Since veneers require Dr. Swaintek-Lamb to permanently alter your teeth, she first lets you try veneers with a “trial smile.” A trial smile shows you what veneers are like, without making a total commitment.

If you’re pleased with the outcome of your trial period, Dr. Swaintek-Lamb moves forward with the permanent veneers. Next, she prepares your teeth to receive them.

Dr. Swaintek-Lamb numbs your mouth with a local anesthetic and removes a thin layer of enamel from each tooth. After taking impressions of your teeth, she sends them to a dental laboratory that manufactures your veneers.

When your veneers are ready, you return to Proud to Smile Dentistry. Dr. Swaintek-Lamb bonds the veneers to your permanent teeth, checks your bite, and polishes your teeth. 

How long do veneers last?

Veneers last 12-15 years* on average, but you can extend their lifespan by taking good care of them. Dr. Swaintek-Lamb and the team recommend brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing regularly, and visiting the dentist twice a year for teeth cleaning. 

You should also avoid bad habits like nail biting, chewing on ice cubes, or opening packaging with your teeth.

Call Proud to Smile Dentistry today to see if you can benefit from veneers or make your appointment online.

*Individual results may vary.