Perfection is an art we admire in so many forms. You see it in the precise movements of a watchmaker, assembling intricate gears with a steady hand. It’s in the deliberate touch of a master chef, balancing flavors with care to create culinary harmony. This same level of craftsmanship is even applied to one of our most personal features: our smiles. But unlike spontaneous strokes of creativity, the art of veneers is a science, a methodical and step-by-step process. It’s the kind of perfection you can measure, with each stage—consultation, design, preparation, and placement—carefully aligned to achieve a picture-perfect outcome. And when it comes to this kind of precision, Dr. Todd Shatkin is the expert you can trust. With his experience and dedication, his approach ensures that every veneer is more than just a cosmetic fix; it’s a work of art crafted with you in mind.
Are Veneers Right for You?
So, what exactly are veneers, and who can benefit from them? Think of dental veneers as super-thin, custom-made covers that fit over the front of your teeth. They’re designed to make your smile look better and are usually made from porcelain or composite resin, both of which are strong and durable. Veneers are great for improving the appearance of your smile, but not everyone is a perfect candidate right away.
To be a good fit for veneers, you need healthy gums and teeth. Your mouth should be free of gum disease and minimal tooth decay. Veneers rely on the strength of your natural teeth, so if there’s any significant decay or other oral health issues, we will need to treat those first. Addressing these issues ensures that the veneers will look and perform their best.
We typically use veneers to fix cosmetic concerns. They can correct teeth that are severely stained or discolored, especially if whitening treatments don’t work. They also help with chipped, cracked, or misshapen teeth, creating a more even and polished look. For individuals with small gaps between their teeth or slightly crooked teeth, veneers offer a solution without the need for braces. Veneers allow you to redesign your smile with a natural and beautiful result.
What Can I Expect From the Veneers Process?
Initial Consultation and Planning
During your first visit, Dr. Shatkin will evaluate your oral health and discuss your smile goals. This is an important step where he takes time to understand what you hope to achieve with veneers. He may use X-rays to gain a detailed view of your teeth, ensuring he creates the best treatment plan. After reviewing your goals and examining your teeth, Dr. Shatkin will explain your veneer options and any necessary pre-treatment
Tooth Preparation
Once the plan is set, Dr. Shatkin carefully removes a thin layer of enamel from the surface of each tooth that will receive a veneer. He performs this step to ensure the veneer fits naturally over the tooth. Once the enamel is prepared, Dr. Shatkin takes impressions of your teeth, which will be used to design your custom veneers. Together, you will select the perfect shade for your veneers, ensuring a natural match to your other teeth.
While your permanent veneers are being crafted, Dr. Shatkin will place temporary veneers. These temporary covers provide basic functions and improve the appearance of your smile during this time. You’ll wear them for about 1 to 2 weeks while your permanent veneers are custom-made in a dental lab.
Veneer Placement
Once your permanent veneers are ready, you’ll return to Dr. Shatkin’s office to have them placed. He’ll make sure everything looks and feels right before proceeding. The next step is to clean and lightly etch the surface of your teeth, which helps create a better bond between the tooth and the veneer. He will then apply a special cement to the back of each veneer, and place them onto your teeth. Once Dr. Shatkin bonds the veneers, he will check your bite and make any necessary adjustments, ensuring your veneers fit comfortably and function properly.
What You Should Know About the Veneers Process
Enamel is the outermost layer of your teeth, and it’s actually the hardest substance in the human body! This incredible material is made up mostly of minerals, especially hydroxyapatite, which strengthens it. But here’s the catch—unlike other parts of your body, enamel doesn’t contain any living tissue, so once Dr. Shatkin removes this layer, it doesn’t grow back.
When we remove a thin layer of enamel during the veneer process, it’s for a good reason. By doing this, he creates the perfect surface for the veneer to bond securely to your tooth. Without removing that small layer, the veneer could look bulky or unnatural. While enamel is extremely strong, it can’t be replaced once it’s taken away. It’s important to remember that after we remove the enamel for the veneers, your teeth will always need some form of restoration, like veneers or crowns, to protect them.
Begin the Veneers Process With Dr. Shatkin Today
Your smile is one of your most personal features, and achieving the perfect look takes both skill and precision. Dr. Todd Shatkin brings years of experience to every veneer treatment, creating natural, beautiful results that last. Whether you want to fix discoloration, chipped teeth, or gaps, veneers can give you the confidence that comes with a great smile. Schedule a free consultation with Dr. Shatkin today to start the process. Your best smile is waiting!
Learn more about how veneers can transform smiles by following us on Instagram and Facebook for expert advice and updates.
