Dental veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that are bonded over the front of your teeth to change their color and/or shape. Veneers are used on teeth with uneven surfaces, chips or discolorations. Veneers are also used on teeth that are oddly shaped, unevenly spaced or crooked. Sometimes, little or no anesthesia is needed. Veneers have a longer life expectancy and color stability than bonding, and are more resistant to permanent staining from coffee, tea or cigarette smoking.
How does the Dental Veneer process work?
Typically, dental veneers require at least three appointments: diagnosis and treatment planning, preparation, and bonding.
At the first visit, you and your doctor will discuss your teeth and the vision of what they should look and feel like with veneers. During this time, your doctor will likely take photos, molds and scans to help design your case and to better communicate his or her vision with you and the lab.
During the tooth preparation visit, usually lasting one to two hours, the teeth are lightly buffed to allow for the small added thickness of the veneer. During the same visit, a mold is taken of the teeth, and sent to the laboratory for the fabrication of the veneers. Temporary veneers are given for the time in between the second and third visit.
During the final “bonding” visit, also about one or two hours, the veneers are placed on the tooth surface, their fit and color are checked and then they are permanently bonded.
Loving a new smile is easier than you think!