If you find yourself unhappy with your veneers, you're not alone. Many factors can contribute to veneer failure, from improper technique to product issues. However, it's important to know that these issues can be addressed effectively.
At Hampton Dental Associates in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Dr. Richard Winter specializes in repairing and replacing veneers.
Don't settle for less than perfection. With Dr. Winter's expertise, you can finally have the radiant smile you've always dreamed of – restored to its full potential.
Why Do Veneers Fail?
Reports of veneer failures, changing colors, chipping, cracking, or falling off are not necessarily a result of product failure. Because veneer treatments are technique-sensitive, unsatisfactory veneers can occur due to technique failure.
There are a few factors that play a key role in determining the final cosmetic result, including:
- Proper selection of an appropriate veneer material
- Preparation of bonding surfaces (avoiding both under- and over-preparation)
- Cement selection
- Controlling contamination
- Assuring proper thicknesses of laminate material on different sections of each tooth
It’s not enough to have training in applying veneer products. A dentist should have substantial experience to assure patients they are receiving cosmetic treatment that will last for years. Life expectancy for premium veneers can exceed 7- 10 years or more for the average patient. That’s assuming that you maintain good overall oral health habits and have control over parafunctional habits like teeth grinding.
Replacing Failed Veneers
Dr. Winter uses high-quality feldspathic porcelain or lithium disilicate and works closely with master ceramists to provide veneers that look stunning and offer long-lasting durability.
Veneer quality and product selectection depends on the shade of the underlying teeth. Sometimes thin veneers are not the ideal choice and full porcelain or zirconia crowns are required.
The process of replacing or restoring veneers involves several steps:
- Assessment and Planning: Dr. Winter begins by thoroughly assessing your current veneers and oral health. This helps him understand the reasons behind the failure and plan the best course of action.
- Preparation: Proper selection of an appropriate veneer material and preparation of bonding surfaces is key. Dr. Winter ensures that the surfaces are neither under- nor over-prepared, which can affect the bond strength and longevity of the veneers.
- Diagnostic Wax-Up Models: To visualize the final outcome, Dr. Winter creates diagnostic wax-up models. These models help determine the new veneers' precise shade, shape, and fit, allowing for adjustments before the actual veneers are made.
- Temporary Veneers: We use temporary veneers during the process to protect your teeth and help you adjust to the new shape and feel. This stage allows for fine-tuning of the veneer thickness, shading, texture, and contouring.
- Fabrication and Bonding: Working closely with master ceramists, Dr. Winter oversees the fabrication of your new veneers to ensure they meet the highest standards of aesthetics and durability. The final veneers are then carefully bonded to your teeth, with attention to detail to ensure a perfect fit and long-lasting results.
- Final Adjustments and Polishing: Once the veneers are in place, Dr. Winter makes any necessary adjustments and polishes them to achieve a natural and radiant finish.
By selecting the appropriate veneer material, preparing bonding surfaces correctly, and maintaining proper veneer thickness, Dr. Winter ensures that your new veneers will be both aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound.
Real-Life Example
Our young patient in this pre-op (before treatment) photo had received veneer treatments to his front teeth only a couple of years prior to visiting us.
He was pretty unhappy with his cosmetic appearance. The color shading appeared more yellow than white, and the veneers had already sustained chipping damage. The adjacent photo readily shows the yellow contrast of the veneers. The patient was also upset with the chipping that had begun to occur.
His goal was to have the brightest white smile that still looked natural. That was what he had in mind when he received his first set of veneers. He still was determined to get what he wanted …. without mistakes.
How We Replaced His Veneers
We used “super deep whitening” Zoom products to obtain the whiteness our patient wanted for his entire smile. This helped us get his surrounding teeth to the desired shade of his final front teeth.
Dr. Winter created diagnostic wax-up models that enabled him to create the precise shade and shape of the final feldspathic veneers the patient wanted.
The modeling process and use of temporary veneers allowed control over the laminate thickness, shading, texture, contouring, and shaping of the ceramic material that would provide the natural lip support required for a great smile.
Working closely with Dr. Winter’s master ceramist, Leszek Rapa, the new veneers enabled our patient to smile easily. Our patient even commented on how effortless it was to show off his teeth – something he had missed for over two years!
The last two postop (after treatment) pictures show the degree of cosmetic change our patient was seeking. When comparing the before photo with the final image, you can see that his smile is no longer a conscious effort but more natural and spontaneous.
Our patient got the smile he always wanted.
Why Choose Hampton Dental Associates, SC?
At Hampton Dental Associates, SC, our standard is exceptional dental care. The practice is led by Dr. Richard Winter, a renowned cosmetic, implant and rehabiliation dentist is recognized for his skill in complex dental restorations and cosmetic procedures. Dr. Winter's advanced training and numerous accolades, including being named a Milwaukee Top Dentist for over 10 years in a row, underscore his expertise.
What truly sets Hampton Dental Associates apart is our unwavering commitment to personalized patient care. Dr. Winter and his team prioritize building lasting relationships with their patients, ensuring each visit is comfortable. Our comprehensive approach to dental health covers everything from preventive care to intricate restorative procedures, all delivered with a focus on achieving optimal oral health and aesthetic results.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do Veneers Typically Last?
When properly applied and maintained, high-quality veneers can last 7-10 years or more. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are crucial to prolonging the lifespan of your veneers.
Can All Veneers Be Repaired, or Do Some Need to Be Replaced?
While minor chips and cracks in veneers can sometimes be repaired, more significant damage or issues related to improper fit often require replacement to ensure the best aesthetic and functional results.
What Should I Do if My Veneer Falls Off?
If your veneer falls off, it's important to contact your dentist immediately. Dr. Winter can assess the situation, determine the cause, and recommend the best course of action, whether it's re-bonding the existing veneer or creating a new one.
Are There Alternatives to Veneers for Improving My Smile?
Yes, there are several alternatives to veneers, including dental bonding, crowns, and orthodontic treatments. During your consultation, Dr. Winter can discuss these options and help determine the best solution for your needs.
Reclaim Your Confidence With Perfect Veneers
Ready to reclaim your radiant smile? Call us today at 414-464-9021 to book an appointment with Dr. Winter in Milwaukee. Let us help you achieve the beautiful, natural-looking smile you deserve.
Whether you need to replace failed veneers or are considering veneers for the first time, Hampton Dental Associates, SC, is committed to providing exceptional dental care that will make you smile confidently.
