Porcelain veneers are very thin coverings that are bonded onto the teeth to improve their appearance, requiring little or no anesthesia and only 2 appointments to complete. Veneers are often used to create a quick but permanent cosmetic solution. Once bonded to the teeth these restorations are very strong and durable, as well as stain-resistant. Porcelain veneers are very thin because they can be processed in a dental laboratory under ideal conditions, which allows them to look very natural and maintain many of the characteristics of natural teeth while masking any imperfections.
Porcelain veneers are the ideal treatment for a smile makeover, and can also be used to correct a number of minor tooth imperfections including: defects in the tooth enamel, staining or discoloration, and chipping of teeth. They may also be used to close spaces between teeth as well as give the illusion that crooked teeth are straight without going through braces. Porcelain veneers can easily brighten and enhance a smile giving added confidence and self-esteem.
Procedure
The procedure begins with the preparation of the tooth to remove areas that are excessively discolored or out of the desired alignment. After tooth preparation, an impression is taken and temporary restorations are fabricated and placed. Often an impression and photos of the temporary restorations are also made to help communicate the desired result to the dental lab.
On the second visit, the temporaries are removed and the teeth are cleaned of any temporary cement. The new veneers are adjusted and evaluated for fit, comfort and esthetics. After any adjustments are made, the veneers are permanently bonded to the teeth.