Veneers are very thin, tooth-colored shells of ceramic that are custom-fit and bonded to the front of the teeth. They can create a white, even, and attractive smile. Veneers make it possible to correct a variety of problems, including:
- Spaces between the teeth
- Chipped teeth
- Yellowing or stains
- Misshapen or crooked teeth
- Small holes or pits in teeth
- Uneven or undersized teeth
A veneer placed on top of a tooth can quickly and easily help achieve a beautiful smile. Although some veneers are designed to be removable, most are permanent and are bonded very tightly to the tooth they are protecting. The advancements in technology have improved bonding agents to the point where some types of veneers may last for 20 years or more.
Types of Veneers
Porcelain or Indirect Veneers
Porcelain veneers are custom-made in a laboratory and applied to the teeth. They resist stains better than composite veneers and better simulate the shine of natural teeth. Three appointments are required for this process: one for taking an initial scan to customize the smile design, and a second for preparing the natural teeth and lastly placing the veneers once they have been created. Owen Family Dentistry is trained in no prep or near no prep porcelain veneers that are so thin they require minimal, if any, tooth shaping before placement.
The Veneer Procedure
The placement of porcelain veneers will require three appointments for the following:
Diagnosis and Treatment Planning
During this appointment, your dentist will examine the teeth to make sure dental veneers are appropriate. An X-ray may also be taken at this time. The dentist will also discuss the corrective abilities and limitations of the procedure, as well as provide the patient an opportunity to take an active role in designing and discussing the restorative veneer process.
Preparation
At the second appointment, the teeth receiving the veneers are lightly buffed to prepare the surface for proper adhesion. A scan is taken of the teeth and sent to the lab for creation of the custom-made veneer. Temporary veneers will be placed so patients have the opportunity to view their new smile. The veneers are usually ready one to two weeks later.
Bonding
At the third appointment, the dentist will try in the veneers onto the teeth to determine that they are perfect in fit and color. The veneers are then bonded to the teeth and the patient’s new smile is revealed.
Care and Maintenance of Veneers
Veneers should be treated just like natural teeth. They should be brushed and flossed regularly. Porcelain or Composite veneers will not be damaged by brushing and flossing, although using non-abrasive toothpaste is recommended.
New veneers will help achieve the goal of improving the appearance of teeth. With proper home care and regular dental visits, patients will experience long lasting success with their new veneers and smile.
