Dental Veneers & Cosmetic Dentistry
Dental veneers (also known as porcelain veneers or laminates) are very thin, custom-made tooth coverings that are designed to cover the front surface of the tooth. Typically, veneers are between 0.3 to 1.0 millimeters thick and can be made from porcelain or a resin composite. They are adhered to the surface of teeth to improve their appearance. Veneers can be used to change the color, shape, size or length of a tooth. They can correct a wide range of cosmetic dental issues including:
- • Stained or discolored teeth
- • Worn, chipped or broken teeth
- • Crooked, misaligned, uneven or irregularly shaped teeth
- • Uneven spaces or gaps between teeth
Because of the better resistance to stain and more natural light reflection properties, most people and dentists prefer porcelain over resin composites.
There are numerous advantages to using veneers for cosmetic dentistry. These include:
- • They provide can create a very natural looking tooth
- • Porcelain veneers are very stain resistant
- • Porcelain color can be chosen, giving the option to match the color of existing teeth or create a brighter, whiter smile if several teeth are being done at the same time
- • Porcelain does not irritate gum tissue
- • They can be a better alternative to crowns (stronger and more comfortable procedure)
Veneers can last up to 15 years at which time, they would need to be replaced.
The Process
If you are interested in veneers, make an appointment with your cosmetic dentist. During your appointment, your dentist can go over the pros and cons of veneers to help you decide if they can help you achieve the cosmetic results desired. The dentist may want to take x-rays and/or impressions of your teeth.
If the patient decides to proceed with veneers, a time will be set to prepare the teeth for the veneers. During the preparation, a small amount of the teeth will be removed to make space for the veneer to fit. Local anesthetic may be used.
Once the exact amount of the tooth is trimmed, an impression will be made, and temporary veneers may be placed until the finals are ready.
When the final veneers are complete, the dentist will use a special cement to set the veneers onto the tooth. The cement cures quickly with use of a special light. Once the veneers are set, any cement is cleaned up and the dentist will check your bite and placement of veneers. Any final adjustments are made if necessary.
