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FAQs about what to expect at every step in the veneers process
The veneer procedure complements the expertise and talents of Drs Chuong Phan and Anna Abel. These thin layers of dental porcelain are celebrated for replicating the appearance of natural tooth enamel. This characteristic makes them a great option for individuals in the Potomac Falls, Virginia, area who wish to eliminate cosmetic flaws – from chips to gaps between teeth. As “dental artists,” Drs Phan and Abel apply their natural talents and considerable knowledge to craft veneers that restore a uniform, balanced smile and complement your unique features.
How do I get started?
The first step in the process is to schedule a consultation. During this visit, we examine your teeth and gums. This examination is important; if your teeth have decay or your gums are diseased, it can preclude you from veneer treatment. Or, you may need to undergo restorative procedures or periodontal therapies beforeyou can get your veneers. In these cases, alternative treatments might include fillings, crowns, root canal therapy, and Scaling and Root planning (for gum disease). Healthy teeth and gums are an essential starting point because veneers are a true cosmetic dentistry procedure. They are not appropriate for individuals who require restorative dentistry to resolve underlying health problems that can present as cosmetic issues, like dark discoloration. During this visit, we will also discuss your personal preferences and goals for treatment and take a closer look at the imperfections you wish to eliminate from your otherwise healthy and lovely smile.
How are veneers prepared?
Before ” preparing” the veneers, we must prepare the teeth to be treated with these ceramic shells. To do so, a tiny amount of enamel is removed from each tooth (about the thickness of a fingernail or contact lens). For your comfort, a local anesthetic may be applied. This helps to manage any sensitivity that can arise as the tooth is prepared. The veneer would not fit properly if the tooth were left fully intact. It would stick out too much and not look natural, and the long-term integrity of the veneer would also be threatened. After this step is completed, information about your teeth will be collected. Our dental lab uses this information to fabricate your permanent veneers. Provisional or temporary veneers may also be applied for cosmetic reasons and to protect the prepared teeth from potential damage and sensitivity as their permanent counterparts are being made.
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And how do you apply the veneers?
Once your permanent veneers are ready, you will return to the office of Abel, Phan & Associates. The temporaries are removed during this visit, and the permanent veneers are applied. Our dental artists, Drs Phan and Abel make the slightest refinements and precision adjustments to ensure your veneers look, feel, and function indistinguishably from healthy, natural teeth. After everything is perfect, they use a special conditioning liquid and bonding techniques to cement the veneers. These final steps ensure the strongest bond between the porcelain and each tooth. With your veneers in place, the imperfections in your smile are no longer visible! Veneers may be used to cover up almost every cosmetic flaw you can think of, including but not limited to:
- Signs of wear and tear
- Stubborn internal discoloration
- Very severe stains that do not respond well to professional teeth whitening treatments
- Poorly-shaped teeth
- Excess spaces between teeth
- Oddly-sized or overly short teeth
- Other spacing issues (besides gaps)
- Chips
- Cracks that do not require restorative dentistry procedures
If you are bothered by these or other flaws, let’s talk! Contact (571) 450-9848 to speak with a Potomac Falls area team member in Sterling, Virginia, and start the process toward a confidence-boosting smile today.
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Dr. Anna Abel
Dr. Anna Abel, a highly experienced dentist with over 20 years of expertise, is known for her patient-centered care and her dedication to volunteer work. She specializes in cosmetic dentistry, including veneers, bone grafts, and dental implants, and has been trained by influential figures like Dr. Peter Dawson. Her association with the American Academy of Implant Dentistry and her global outreach through Operation Smile and Hope for Tomorrow, where she offers essential dental services to underserved communities, further highlight her profound knowledge and commitment to her profession.
Dr. Chuong Phan
Dr. Chuong Phan, a Howard University College of Dentistry graduate, brings over 20 years of expertise to his practice. Specializing in orthodontic treatment and root canal therapy, Dr. Phan has advanced his skills through training with the American Orthodontic Society and the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. Dedicated to serving communities in need, Dr. Phan volunteers at Northern Virginia Dental Clinic and participates in global missions with Operation Smile and Hope for Tomorrow. His commitment to health education and community service reflects his compassionate, patient-centered approach to dental care.
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