As we age, many of us find ourselves with teeth that are no longer structurally sound. Root canals, lost fillings, decay below a filling, large amalgam (silver) fillings, chipping and cracking of the enamel are all things that can lead to large-scale defects in a tooth’s surface. Grinding your teeth, an improper bite and age can all be contributing factors in the wearing down, cracking or breakage of your teeth. Dental crowns and/or cover the visible surface of your affected tooth and add strength, durability and tooth stability.
- Dr. Babik will make an impression of the tooth, and a dental lab will create the crown.
- You will typically leave the office with a temporary crown to wear while your permanent crown is being made, about two weeks.
- The permanent crown is then cemented onto your tooth.
- This usually takes just two visits.
- A crown can improve the strength and the appearance of the tooth.
- Tooth crowns usually last ten to fifteen years.
Crowns After
- Crown Before
“my experience at Crossridge Dentistry was exceptional. Dr. Babik did a wonderful job and was great to work with. I will finally smile again.” – by, J.J.
What is a veneer procedure?
- Veneers, which can be porcelain or resin, can be a pain-free alternative to traditional crowns.
- Veneers actually change the color and shape of the teeth.
- They are ideal for teeth that may be too small, too big, or have uneven surfaces.
- We can fix imperfect teeth—oddly-shaped teeth, chipped teeth, or crooked teeth, for example.
- Veneers can turn irregular teeth into a durable and pleasing smile.
Veneer Before
Veneer After
How can I know I will like my veneers?
Are they made just for me? Yes! Veneers are customized. First there’s a “try-in” phase, and your veneers will attached with a temporary cement that is the same color cement as will be used for permanent attachment. You’ll have an opportunity to look at your veneers in natural light, in addition to office light. You and Dr. Babik will talk about any adjustments or changes you would like to have made, such as changes in shape or size. These changes can be made before the veneers are permanently adhered.
Are there different types of veneers?
There are two types of veneers
- Composite Veneer Procedure: Composite, or direct veneers, are usually performed in a single visit to Dr. Babik. He applies a bond and enamel directly to the tooth’s surface.
- Porcelain Veneer Procedure: Porcelain, or indirect veneers, are a very thin porcelain material. Usually porcelain veneers required two visits. A dental laboratory creates the final tooth restoration piece.
10 unit porcelain veneers with no anesthesia. No tooth structure removal and no pain! (before)
"I was too embarrassed to smile at my new baby or laugh with friends. But now I can't peel a smile off my face!" M.F. (after)
Front view 10 unit porcelain veneers (before)
After
What are the advantages and disadvantages of veneers?
Porcelain veneers are common in creating smile makeovers. With porcelain veneers, you can have the smile of your dreams in a very short period of time. They brighten dark teeth, and they are strong and durable. There is no additional maintenance other than your regular flossing and brushing, and regular check-ups.
Getting used to veneers is an adjustment. It takes a week or two to become accustomed to teeth that look and feel different. There are some situations in which more tooth must be removed, and that carries a risk of trauma to the tooth. You and Dr. Babik will discuss the amount of tooth to be removed before the procedure is begun.
Some people have minor sensitivity while wearing the temporary veneers. It is also possible to experience a difference in speech, usually pronouncing the “s” and “f” sounds. Dr. Babik will work with you to correct this through making minor adjustments to the veneers. Veneers are very much like your natural teeth, but they are not your natural teeth. It can take a month or two before your new smile feels like a part of you. If you suffer from Bruxism (clinching or grinding your teeth), veneers can be damaged. Dr. Babik can protect your veneers by making you a custom, comfortable mouth guard to wear at night.