Porcelain veneers are the most popular technique used for dramatic
smile makeovers.
What are
Porcelain Veneers?
Veneers are a thin, semi-translucent laminate permanently bonded to
your teeth.
While they're not suitable for every patient, veneers are the most
aesthetic alternative for a variety of dental conditions involving the
front teeth, including:
Diastemas (spaces between teeth)
Broken or chipped teeth
Unsightly, stained, or washed-out fillings
Permanently stained or discolored teeth that can't be bleached
Crooked teeth
Advantages and Benefits of Veneers
There are many benefits and advantages to having porcelain veneers
placed on your front teeth:
The procedure takes only two appointments
A conservative amount of tooth structure is removed during the
procedure
Veneers are the most biocompatible material you can use next to
the gingiva
A healthy "natural" look is achieved; in fact, porcelain veneers
are the most aesthetic restoration in dentistry.
How are Veneers different from Bonding or Crowns?
Bonding is a resin filling material that was used for several years to
cover the front surface of teeth. Today, we generally use bonding only
to fill in small surfaces or cavities and repair chips in teeth. A
full crown is when a tooth has had root canal treatment, or when a
substantial amount of the entire tooth structure (enamel) has been
lost.
How are Porcelain Veneers done?
At the first appointment the teeth are prepared for the veneers and an
impression is taken. This impression is then sent to a lab where each
porcelain veneer is custom made to the dentist's specifications and
beautiful temporaries are fabricated to simulate your new smile so you
can expect to leave the first appointment looking better than when you
came in. At the second appointment the veneers are permanently adhered
to the natural teeth.
What to Expect
Veneers can last indefinitely, depending on how well they are taken
care of by the patient. Because veneers are stronger than simple
bonding, they are also more resistant to stains and chipping. Your
must maintain regular oral hygiene at home, and visit us for routine
cleanings and exams. This is to ensure that your new veneers will look
as good as new. Another important point is that oral habits that
damage natural teeth such as mail biting, opening bobby pins, and
chewing on hard objects can also damage your new veneers. Once veneers
are applied, just treat them like natural teeth. They look great and
are extremely durable.
