Dental Veneers & Bonding
Rochester, NY
 There are many ways to make cosmetic changes to a tooth, big or small. At Stephen L Ruchlin DDS, we specialize in using both dental veneers and dental bonding to fix the appearance of an unsightly tooth. Depending on your circumstance, we may recommend veneers, bonding, or a combination of both!
Reasons for Veneers & Bonding
A dental veneer is a less invasive alternative to a dental crown. The restoration is a razor-thin, custom-designed covering that fits over the front surface of a tooth. We may recommend veneers to change the size, shape, length, or color of your teeth. More specifically, veneers can correct teeth that are severely discolored, worn down, chipped, cracked, misaligned, uneven, gapped, or abnormally shaped.
Most veneers are fabricated using porcelain due to its cosmetic value. Porcelain is not only durable but also best mimics the appearance of natural enamel. We will also choose a shade of porcelain that matches or improves the current brightness of your smile.
Dental bonding involves the application of a putty-like substance known as composite resin. Composite resin can be used to repair a chipped, fractured, or discolored tooth. It is also one of the most common materials used as dental fillings to repair areas of decay. Unlike veneers, dental bonding can be completed in a single appointment. This makes it one of the easiest and least expensive ways to make a cosmetic modification. For this reason, it is often the ideal choice for minor issues, such as chips and fractures.
Dental Veneer Procedure
The dental veneer procedure typically requires two appointments. During your first appointment, Dr. Ruchlin will begin by removing a minor amount of enamel from the front of the tooth to make room for the veneer. This amount is so small that the procedure does not usually require the application of a local anesthetic. Once we have removed the right amount, we will make an impression of the tooth. This impression is sent to our laboratory where our technicians will use it to fabricate your final veneer.
You will return to our office once the veneers are ready to be placed. During this appointment, we will slightly etch the surface of the tooth. A rough exterior strengthens the bond between the enamel and the veneer. Next, we will check the fit. We may need to make some minor adjusts to ensure there are no issues with your bite. Once we are satisfied, the veneer will be permanently bonded to the tooth.
Dental Bonding Procedure
Before we begin the bonding procedure, we will use a shade guide to select a composite resin that best matches the color of your tooth. Next, we will slightly etch the surface that is receiving the bonded material. Once the tooth is properly prepared, we will apply the composite to the tooth. Dr. Ruchlin will mold and smooth out the material until we achieve the proper shape. We then use an ultraviolet curing light to harden the composite and expedite the bonding process. After the composite is hard, we will trim any excess, and polish the material until it matches the shine of natural enamel. All in all, the procedure only takes about 30 minutes to an hour!
Schedule Your Consultation Now!
Find out if you are a candidate for dental veneers or composite bonding! We'll also explain veneers vs dental crowns when we talk. Call (585) 427-7820 to schedule your consultation appointment now! |
