Porcelain veneers are one of the primary tools in cosmetic dentistry. They are paper-thin, custom made shells of porcelain, which are bonded onto the front and side surfaces of your tooth. If you ever wished you could radically redesign your smile, veneers could be just the solution for your teeth.

Recommendations of Veneers are as follows:

•  Cracked or chipped teeth

•  Discolored teeth

•  Some malpositioned teeth

•  Correction of deformities

•  Cosmetic improvements (i.e.: shade, shape, lip support, cheek support, etc.)

The Treatment Plan

You will need to have at least two appointments if you have a porcelain veneer.

Appointment 1 Tooth preparation, impression, shade taking.

1-  A "bonded" veneer can be made in the office. The tooth must first be roughened then white filling material is built up in layers. This type of veneer is slightly more prone to staining and has a shorter life, but is more easily replaced.

2-  For porcelain veneers, some preparation is required. A local anesthetic can be used but may not be necessary.

3-  A small amount of the enamel will need to be removed to ensure that the veneer can be permanently bonded into place. It will be of the same thickness as the veneer to be fitted, so that the tooth stays the same size.

4-  Once the tooth is prepared, your dentist will take an impression and a color match from surrounding teeth.

5-  The veneer will then be made in the laboratory by a dental technician. As the preparation is minimal, you will not need a temporary veneer. Your prepared tooth will look almost the same but feel less smooth.

Appointment 2 Fitting and Cementation procedure

1-  The veneer is cemented to the tooth ensuring a strong and natural looking repair. Your dentist will show you the veneer before it is fitted to make sure that you are happy with it.

2- Only minor adjustments can be made to the veneer once it has been fitted.

Contact our office today if you would like more information or would like to find out if porcelain veneers are right for you!