Porcelain Veneers

Veneers are very thin pieces of durable, tooth shaped porcelain that are custom made (for shape and color) by a professional dental laboratory.  They are bonded onto the front of your teeth to create a beautiful and attractive smile.

Veneers can completely reshape your teeth and smile.  They can be alternatives to crowns in the case of space closures or shade changing, though tooth whitening is usually performed ahead of veneer treatment to insure your desired tooth is reached.

As with most dental restorations, veneers are not permanent and will someday need replacement.  They are very durable and will last many years, depending upon your level of home care and teeth grinding habits.  If you grind your teeth at night a protective bite guard will be part of your planned treatment. 

Reasons for porcelain veneers:

• Cosmetically, to create a uniform, white, beautiful smile.
• Crooked teeth.
• Misshapen teeth.
• Severely discolored or stained teeth.
• Teeth that are too small or large.
• Unwanted or uneven spaces.
• Worn or chipped teeth.
• Correction of darkening teeth due to age

What does getting porcelain veneers involve?

The process of veneers requires two visits to complete.  The first visit involves a reshaping of the front and top surface of your teeth, this allow for the proper thickness of porcelain to provide a strong and esthetic appearing veneer.  A mold or impression of the teeth is taken and a shade (color) isl then be chosen by you and our dental staff. Depending on the reason for the veneers you may require placement of temporary veneers while we await your case back from our dental lab.

On the second visit the teeth will be cleansed with special liquids to achieve a durable bond.  Bonding adhesive is then placed between the tooth and veneer and a special light beam is used to harden and set the bond.

You will receive care instructions for veneers.  Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new veneers, also the wearing of a night time bite guard is strongly recommended to avoid fracturing a veneer in your sleep.