Porcelain Veneers

By Brian J. Gray, DDS, MAGD, FICOI

Modern dentistry offers a wide selection of options for today's consumers for enhancing their smiles. As an alternative to crowns, chipped or stained teeth can be effectively restored with porcelain veneers -- ultra-thin, custom-designed ceramic shells bonded to the front teeth.

Porcelain veneers can change a tooth's color, size, or shape. They're ideal for a number of tooth restoration purposes: to mask severely stained teeth, such as from antibiotics; those with discolored fillings on front teeth; to repair crooked, chipped teeth; or for those with poor spacing or worn enamel. Veneers have a good longevity record, lasting many years when properly applied.

About the Procedure

Porcelain veneer treatment requires a three-step process:

  1. First, patients consult with the dentist regarding the specific nature of the desired changes. It is possible that you and your dentist may want to view the expected final result. This can be accomplished by performing a "wax up" of your teeth on some impressions (molds) of your mouth. You may also view the expected result via a computer enhancement program.

  2. During the next appointment, your teeth will be prepared for the veneers. They'll be lightly buffed to remove about 0.5 mm from the tooth's surface (which may require local anesthesia).

  3. Next, an impression will be made of your teeth for customizing the veneer. This will be sent to a dental lab and used for creating a perfect fit. A temporary veneer might be applied at this time, if appearance is of special concern.

  4. When the veneers are ready, the dentist will carefully attach them, adjusting the shade if needed. Once the veneers are cemented, color alteration is no longer possible. Dental cement is applied between the veneer and tooth. A "light" touch finalizes the process with a beam of light activating the hardening of the cement.

Once teeth have been veneered, they will require periodic treatment and regular visits to the dentist. The result is a beautiful and long lasting smile you will love!