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Porcelain Veneers

What are Porcelain Veneers?

Veneers-usually called either porcelain veneers or ceramic veneers-are thin pieces of durable, tooth shaped porcelain which are permanently bonded to the front of teeth. They can be applied to multiple teeth on both the top and the bottom rows. Veneers are custom made (for shape and color) by a professional dental laboratory.  They are bonded onto the front of teeth to create a beautiful and attractive smile.

Veneers can completely reshape your teeth and smile.  They can often be alternatives to crowns and the ideal solution in treating many dental conditions. Veneers are very durable and will last many years, giving you a beautiful long lasting smile.

When are Porcelain Veneers Used?

• Cosmetically, to create a uniform, white, beautiful smile.
• Crooked teeth.
• Misshapen teeth.
• Severely discolored or stained teeth.
• Teeth that are too small or large.
• Unwanted gaps or uneven spaces.
• Worn or chipped teeth.
• Teeth which are worn or ground down.

Porcelain veneers can create dramatic changes in less than a month. Veneers can even be used to substitute for extensive orthodontic work (Instant Orthodontics). Multiple gaps, chips, stains and a host of other problems can be taken care of in just a few appointments.

porcelain is also highly resistant to staining. With proper brushing, flossing, and home care habits, porcelain veneers will retain their whiteness and, compared to other forms of cosmetic dentistry, will be relatively unaffected by coffee, wine and even cigarettes.

What Does Getting Porcelain Veneers Involve?

Getting porcelain veneers usually requires two dental appointments over the course of three weeks to complete the process. 

In the first appointment the teeth are prepared for veneers by lightly buffing and shaping the surface to allow for the added thickness of the veneer.  The veneers are thin like contact lenses, and will usually only need tooth reduction of 0.5mm to 1.0mm. If a drastic change is being made reduction of 1.0mm to 2.0mm may be required. After the teeth are reduced a mold or impression of the teeth is taken and a shade (color) will then be chosen by you and the dentist.

After the impression has been taken temporary veneers are placed and worn until your permanent veneers are ready. While earing the temporary veneers, advise the dentist of any adjustments or changes you would like to have made, such as size or shape. These changes will be translated into your permanent veneers, so good communication between you and the dentist is important in achieving your new smile.