Dr. Katherine Lorenzo Sirage is a general and cosmetic dentist and owner of Mirage Dental Arts in Miami, Florida. She is fluent in both English and Spanish. Her state of the art dental office uses the most advanced digital technology to provide the highest quality care. Dr. Lorenzo and her team put each patient first and work together to create a comfortable, stress-free dental experience. Dr. Lorenzo has advanced training in cosmetic veneers, as well as certifications in Botox, Dermal Fillers, and Invisalign. Haute Beauty discusses with Dr. Lorenzo Sirage how dental veneers can convert your smile and give you astonishing results.

Photo Credit: ShutterstockHB: What are dental veneers?

Dental veneers, or porcelain veneers, are custom made thin shells of ceramic material that are bonded to the front surface of teeth. They can change the color, shape, size, and length of teeth as well as fix cracks, gaps, and misalignment. Porcelain veneers are the most common choice when performing a smile makeover.

HB: Who is a good candidate for a smile makeover?

Anyone and everyone who is not happy with their smile and is looking to change the overall color, shape, and appearance of their smile! In some cases, patients may require other treatment instead of, or in addition to, porcelain veneers, so it is best to consult with your dentist on what options are right for you.

HB: How does the process of a smile makeover work?

At our office, the process is generally divided into three to four separate appointments. The first appointment will be a consultation appointment where we will present the best course of action to create optimal results. An impression is taken to be able to create a wax-up (or a mock-up) of your veneers. A wax-up shows what you what your veneers will look like on a model and gives us a predictable route of the desired outcome of treatment. About two weeks later, you will return for your second appointment where we will prepare the teeth for veneers and obtain a final impression or scan of your teeth. On this day you will leave with temporary veneers. For my patients, these temporary veneers look almost identical to what the final outcome will be. A few days later, after having worn the temporary veneers for a little, you will return to the office and let us know if you are completely satisfied with the look, appearance, shape, and color of the veneers or if there is anything that you would like to be changed. I love this because this puts patients at ease knowing what the final results are going to look like! The final appointment, about two to three weeks later, is the big day you receive your veneers and your smile makeover is considered complete!

Photo Credit: ShutterstockHB: How can you prepare for your consult appointment?

At your consultation appointment, it is very important to explain to your dentist all your desires and concerns. Take the time to think about what it is about your smile that you would like to change. If you know someone or there is a particular celebrity’s smile that you love, bring photos of that smile. This will help your dentist have all the information they will need to give you a smile you absolutely love. If you have any fears or anxieties, do not hesitate to let your dentist know, as there are so many treatment options available to help make this process the most comfortable and pain-free experience.

HB: What does the aftercare/recovery entail?

There is very little to no recovery time for porcelain veneers. Minor sensitivity may occur and should last about 1-2 weeks. Once patients receive their veneers, it is essential for them to visit their dentist regularly and practice good oral hygiene. Most dentists will recommend a night guard after a smile makeover has been completed, which will help protect the veneers at night and avoid excess force that could lead to chips and cracks.