Dental veneers are thin custom made shells that cover the front surface of your tooth to improve their appearance. They are made of tooth colored materials and can be used to improve the color of teeth that have been worn down or stained. Alternatively, they can be used to improve the shape or size of the tooth.
Types of veneers:
There are two types of veneers that are commonly used. Porcelain veneers are more durable, and resist stains better. The properties of the material also helps to create a very natural tooth look. Unlike porcelain veneers, composite resin veneers are not made in a laboratory, but instead directly applied to the teeth. They typically have a shorter life span, and are less expensive.
When should you consider dental veneers?
You talk to you dentist about dental veneers if
Your teeth are stained or discolored teeth
Your teeth are crooked or misshaped teeth
Your teeth have spaces between them
Your teeth are broken or chipped
How its done
Two visits to your dentist are typically required for porcelain veneers. At the first visit, three important steps are completed. Firstly, the your teeth is prepared to be fitted with a veneer, which will involve trimming a portion of the tooth so the veneer can be bonded on top. Secondly, an impression is taken of your tooth which will be sent to a laboratory to prepare the veneer. Finally, you may receive a temporary veneer depending on how much of your tooth structure was removed. This temporary veneer will protect your tooth while the permanent veneer is prepared at the laboratory.
At the second visit, the temporary veneer, if you received one, will be removed. Then, the new veneer received from the laboratory will be checked to see if it fits well. It's best not to adjust porcelain veneers after they are bonded to your teeth, so any adjustments will be made beforehand. Once you and the dentist are satisfied with the look and feel of the veneer, it will be bonded to your tooth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are porcelain veneers and how do they work?
A. Porcelain veneers are ultra-thin, custom-made ceramic shells that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth to improve their color, shape, size, and overall appearance. They mask stains, chips, gaps, and mild misalignment to create a brighter, more uniform smile.
Q. Am I a good candidate for porcelain veneers?
A. You may be a good candidate if you have stained, chipped, misshaped, or uneven teeth and are seeking a cosmetic enhancement. Good oral health (gum health and minimal decay) is important before getting veneers. A consultation with our cosmetic dentist will determine the best treatment plan for your needs.
Q. How long does the porcelain veneer process take?
A. Porcelain veneers typically require two visits. During the first visit, teeth are prepared, impressions are taken, and temporary veneers may be placed. The final veneers are then bonded at the second visit once they’ve been fabricated in a dental lab.
Q. Do veneers look natural?
A. Yes — porcelain veneers are designed to mimic the translucency, texture, and color of natural tooth enamel. They provide a lifelike appearance that blends seamlessly with your smile.
Q. Are porcelain veneers painful to get?
A. Most patients experience minimal discomfort. Numbing is typically used during preparation, and because only a thin layer of enamel is removed, many patients find the process comfortable and well-tolerated.
Q. How long do porcelain veneers last?
A. With proper care, porcelain veneers can last 10–20 years or more. Longevity depends on your oral hygiene habits, routine dental exams, and avoiding habits like grinding, biting nails, or chewing ice.
Q. Can I whiten my veneers?
A. Porcelain veneers cannot be whitened with traditional bleaching products. If you plan on whitening your natural teeth, it’s best to do that before veneer placement so your veneers can be matched to your desired shade.
Q. How do I take care of my porcelain veneers?
A. Maintain veneers just like your natural teeth: brush twice daily with non-abrasive toothpaste, floss daily, and visit your dentist every six months. Avoid extremely hard or sticky foods that could chip or damage the veneers.
