Improve your Smile with Dental Veneers
If you want to improve your smile, dental veneers are a simple option. Veneers are thin coverings that are placed over the front (visible) part of the tooth. They look like natural teeth. Veneers can be used to correct a wide range of dental issues, such as:
• teeth that are permanently stained and can’t be whitened
• chipped or worn teeth
• crooked or misshapen teeth
• uneven spaces or a large gap between the upper front teeth.
Porcelain Veneers
A porcelain veneer is a thin shell that is custom-made to fit on the front surface of your tooth.
Benefits of porcelain veneers:
• they are strong and long-lasting
• they have a natural-looking surface
• less tooth enamel needs to be removed than with a crown or cap
• they don’t stain easily
- A porcelain veneer is placed
- After placement
Steps to placing a porcelain veneer:
1. To prepare the tooth, our dentists remove a small amount of enamel from the front and sides of your tooth. This makes room for the veneers so that your teeth look natural.
2. Our dentists make an impression, or a mold, of the prepared tooth. They also work with you to decide on the veneer shade that will look best for your smile.
3. The impression is sent to a dental lab that custom-makes the porcelain veneer to fit your tooth. This may take several days. Our dentists will make you a temporary veneer to wear until your porcelain veneer is ready.
4. At the next visit, our dentists place the veneer on your tooth to check its fit and shape. After any adjustments, your teeth are cleaned and the veneer is bonded to the tooth.
5. Our dentists may need to make minor adjustments to your bite at a later appointment.
What you should know before you get a veneer
• Your teeth and gums must be healthy. Our dentists can treat any disease or decay before your veneer is placed.
• Veneers are not always a good choice if you clench or grind your teeth, because the thin veneers may chip or break.
• The process cannot be undone because your dentist removes tooth enamel in order to place the veneer. They will work to remove as little enamel as possible.
• A veneer may chip, crack, wear down, or come loose over time. It may need to be re-bonded, repaired or replaced.
• As with all your dental care, discuss all your expectations and treatment options with your dentist. Regular dental visits are important for keeping your teeth and gums healthy.
After you get veneers
• Veneers can chip or break under pressure. Avoid biting your fingernails and chewing on hard objects, such as pencils or ice.
• It may take you a few days to get used to the feel of your veneer. Tell your dentist if your bite does not feel right after the veneer has been placed. They will correct it before you leave the office.
• Keep your teeth and gums clean by brushing and cleaning between your teeth every day. You can still get decay and cavities under or around a veneer.
Click here for more information on Dental Veneers
©2019 American Dental Association