Looking for a solution to help correct sizing, shape, color and appearance flaws in teeth? Porcelain veneers may provide a viable option. Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain used to recreate the natural look of teeth, while also providing strength and resilience.
Porcelain veneers are a very successful option in many situations where the original tooth has developed poor color, shape, and contours. It is also a good choice for fractured teeth, gaps between teeth, and in some situations where the tooth position is compromised. Veneers may also correct minor bite-related problems. Patients who have teeth resistant to whitening treatments may strongly consider veneers as well.
To begin, a patient must pinpoint the problem and then plan a course of action. The dentist may create a diagnostic mock-up that will allow the patient to “try on” veneers to see if the final result will be as desired. The dentist may also show the patient a photo of how the new smile will look. This is called cosmetic imaging. In addition to the ceramic layer, the veneer also has an adhesive layer. To apply a veneer, a very small amount of the original tooth enamel must be removed, usually less than a millimeter. This is essential, as it creates room for the porcelain veneer to fit in the mouth and most accurately restore natural tooth function. Light-sensitive resin is placed between the original tooth and the veneer. The resin is hardened using a special curing light. The bond between the original tooth and the porcelain veneer is critical not only for function, but also for a smooth aesthetic. After the porcelain veneers are attached, the patient will probably have some sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures due to the removal of that thin layer of enamel. This typically disappears within a few days.
After the installation, veneers are to be treated the same as the original teeth, with routine brushing and flossing. One week post-procedure, a follow-up visit with evaluation is required so the dentist can see how the mouth is reacting to the veneers.
Veneers offer several benefits. First and foremost, veneers are individually engineered for each patient. Personal needs and wishes are prioritized. Unlike natural teeth, custom-made veneers resist coffee and tea stains and cigarette smoke. Finally, veneers allow your natural teeth to remain largely intact with only minimal alterations required to fit the veneer.
It is important to note that veneers are irreversible. While minor adjustments can be made, the treatment can never be “undone” because a portion of the natural tooth is removed. It should also be noted, that veneers require about a week for creation.
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