People are not happy with their smiles for many different reasons. People who have cracked, chipped, or discolored teeth, for example, or those with size or spacing inconsistencies will often look into getting a smile makeover. Many of those people have gotten veneers, only to go through the process and end up unhappy with the final result. Perhaps their new smile looked bulky or out of place on their face. Some even wish they had never undergone the procedure.
The primary reason people are unhappy with their smile makeovers is that they did not find a cosmetic dentist who has the proper experience. A good dentist is not always a good cosmetic dentist. Dentists are trained to be scientists who fix things; a cosmetic dentist is a scientist, but they are also artists. Dr. Alana Macalik knows that the art of creating a beautiful smile is just as important as the science behind it.
What Are
Porcelain Veneers?
One of the biggest advantages to porcelain veneers in Arlington is their resemblance to the natural translucent sparkle of real teeth. These thin pieces of porcelain bond directly to the teeth and because they are stronger and harder than natural tooth enamel, there is an added bonus of making teeth stronger. Porcelain veneers also resist stains better than natural teeth.
Many people mistakenly believe that when porcelain veneers are applied, the teeth are ground down considerably. This is actually not the case, and patients will barely notice the minimal shaving down of their teeth. You can see, in the photograph on the left, the prepared tooth that is about to receive the porcelain veneer doesn’t look much different from the unprepared teeth on either side.
A Smile Makeover is Art
Because veneers are placed permanently, Dr. Macalik wants to be sure that the smile design created is one that fits you perfectly. Before any work is done, she will sit down with you and discuss your expectations. She will show you photographs of other cases she has done to help you decide on the shapes of the teeth you want, how different shapes will affect the personality you project to others and what would best complement your facial characteristics. Do you want really bright teeth, or a more natural look? Dr. Macalik will take the results of that discussion and create, with the help of her laboratory technician, a wax-up of a smile design. Once you approve it, that wax-up will be used as a template to create temporary veneers that you will be able to wear so that you can “test-drive” this new smile and make sure you like it.
Once you see the final result and try on the porcelain veneers before they are bonded permanently, you’ll understand why it’s important to work with an artist like Dr. Macalik. Your new smile will be gorgeous. The porcelain will be filled with subtleties that make it look completely natural. The surface will sparkle just like natural enamel. While their appearance will be stunningly beautiful, no one will be able to tell, even from extremely close up, that you have had any work done.
If you are considering porcelain veneers in Arlington, come in for an examination and see what we can do for you. Or, if you’d just like to ask some questions without committing to an exam, we’ll be happy to see you for a complimentary consultation. Call us, or request an appointment.