Porcelain Veneers: What To Expect

A veneer is a thin porcelain shell used as a treatment method to cover the front side of an individual tooth. Each shell is created to serve as a permanent means of changing the appearance of chipped, stained, broken, or undesirable teeth. In general, the treatment requires of two separate appointments in order achieve the desired result. In this article, we’re walking you through the treatment process in hopes of providing insight into this revolutionary procedure.

Impressions will be taken prior, during, and many times, post final placement. The impressions obtained prior to the veneer application are used as a model by which stone replica is based. This cast can aid the engineer during the fabrication process, or help in creating a mock-up; or a replica of what the end result will resemble. The wax-up may also be used in order to create to temporary set to be worn while the actual shields are being produced.

Patients are able to choose their own shade based on their particular expectations and desires along with the physician’s recommendation. Customized to skin tone, your dentist will best be able to determine the shade to suit your appearance best, while still providing a look of flawless, attractive teeth. Some patients even end up heading down to the actual laboratory where the veneers are made in order to obtain the most accurate shading.

Minimal removal of the tooth enamel is required. It typically depends on the type of shield used, the exact position of the tooth, or simply the method that the physician prefers.

Whether treatment requires local anesthetic depends on of the condition of the patient. Patients with no history of root canals or those whose situations require minimal prep-time may allow an avoidance of the anesthetic process all together.

During the appointment, the dentist will contour the outward surface of the tooth or set of teeth in question. Impressions are taken and the material used is filled into a tray before being placed on the location. Bite impressions are also taken. As long as the dentist is pleased with the results, the impressions are sent out to the laboratory.

Next, a set of temporary veneers are cemented with temporary cement. This set will resemble that of a natural tooth; however they may not appear quite as white as your final set. They are also generally rougher in texture.

After around 2 weeks, your new smile will arrive. Your porcelain shields will be placed for inspection purposes before final approval is given. Finally, the dentist will permanently affix the veneers to your existing teeth.

And there you have it! A brand new, beautiful set of teeth. Certainly something worth smiling about!