Dental veneers, also known as porcelain veneers are thin “shells” of porcelain that are custom fit and designed to fit over the front of your teeth. Veneers are securely bonded/adhered to each tooth. The placement of dental veneers can be used to address a number of dental problems including:
- Poorly shaped/Crooked teeth
- Gaps/Spaces between teeth
- Broken/Fractured teeth
- Heavily Stained/Discolored teeth
- Overall smile enhancement
The closest alternative to Dental veneers are composite resin/tooth colored fillings. Resin fillings can be used to create veneers, however the results are usually less-esthetic and long lasting than porcelain dental veneers, and are typically less resistant to stain than their porcelain counterparts. Veneers are custom designed specifically for your teeth including shape, size and color and are typically made of porcelain in order to provide a more natural appearance. The process of preparing and and placing the veneers can sometimes be completed in as little as two visits.
Advantages:
- Durability: Although thin, once bonded to the teeth, Porcelain veneers are very strong. With proper care and caution (avoid nuts, ice, etc), veneers can last for years.
- Esthetics: Porcelain veneers provide a very natural, life-like appearance which closely mimics the look of natural teeth.
- Stain Resistance: Porcelain veneers are typically more stain-resistant than tooth-colored filings/resin fillings
Procedure:
After deciding that porcelain veneers are a good option for you, we will usually take impressions of your teeth (dental moulds) which will be sent to the lab for a diagnostic wax-up. The lab technicians will create a model of your veneers in wax so you can get an idea of what your veneers will look like once completed. Your first appointment will involve conservative preparation of the tooth surfaces to be veneered in order to accommodate the veneers which will be placed over you teeth. Impressions are then taken and sent to the laboratory, where your custom veneers are made. A temporary veneer/veneers will be placed on your teeth as needed which will help protect your teeth in the interim. In some cases we may make you a special appointment at the dental laboratory for the technician to record a custom shade for you. This is helpful in cases where we are matching your veneers to your other teeth or to previous dental work. On your second visit, the temporary veneers (where applicable) are removed and the surfaces of your teeth cleaned. We will then “test-fit” the veneers to ensure everything fits appropriately, and you will have the opportunity to assess if the veneers meet your expectations as far as shade/color/size etc. At this point, any changes to shape/color/feel etc. can be made prior to permanently bonding your veneers. Once you provide your approval, the veneers will be bonded in place. Once bonded, your veneers will blend seamlessly, without any signs that dental work has been done. Finally, your bite will be evaluated and adjusted as needed, and your veneers will be polished. You can now enjoy your new smile!
Ongoing care is required to keep your veneers lasting as long as possible. Good oral hygiene including regular brushing and flossing and avoiding crunching on nuts and other hard foods is important.
