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One of the most significant breakthroughs in dentistry has been the discovery of new bonding techniques which permit dentists to successfully adhere or bond dissimilar materials to one another. For example, porcelain can now be laminated to tooth enamel and dentin. Although a relatively new technique, the cosmetic value of these procedures frequently exceeds the patient's own expectations.
What are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin, semi-transparent porcelain "shells" that are bonded to your teeth. In certain cases, porcelain veneers are a beautiful cosmetic dental treatment for a variety of dental conditions of the front teeth, including:
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Unsightly spaces between teeth (diastemas),
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Fractured, broken or chipped teeth,
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Stained and unsightly old fillings,
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Yellow, discolored, or permanently stained teeth,
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Crooked or misshapen teeth,
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Worn edges of teeth.
What are the Advantages of Porcelain Veneers?
There are many advantages to having porcelain veneers placed on your front teeth. In the past, only tooth-colored fillings or crowns were available to treat the above conditions. Today, porcelain veneers offer another option that has many advantages over the others.
The natural tooth structure is maximally preserved. Only a small amount of tooth structure is removed. Individual teeth of dissimilar color and contour can be beautifully matched beyond detection with porcelain veneers. Permanent stains such as those caused by antibiotics (namely Tetracycline), can be covered with porcelain veneers. A healthy, natural and beautiful smile is achieved with porcelain veneers. The porcelain veneer process actually laminates and strengthens the tooth with a layer of porcelain. The strength of these laminated restorations is unparalleled. In some cases, even fractured or trauma-damaged teeth can now be restored with the porcelain veneer technique.
How are Porcelain Veneers Different from Crowns or Fillings?
A full crown is indicated when a substantial amount of the entire tooth structure has been lost by decay and old fillings. A crown may also be indicated when a root canal treatment has been performed on a tooth. A filling made from composite bonding may be used when only a small amount of tooth structure needs replacement and when the cosmetic problem is minor. A porcelain veneer is indicated when a portion of or all of the front surface of the tooth needs a "face lift." An individualized treatment plan for your particular concerns can be made only after a thorough oral examination and x-rays.
How are Porcelain Veneers Done?
Veneers are done in a two appointment sequence. On the first visit, the teeth to be treated are numbed with a strong anesthetic solution. In some cases, anesthesia is not required. During the preparation phase, 0.5 millimeters (a small amount) of tooth structure is carefully removed by your dentist. This allows for sufficient space for the veneer to be placed and the tooth to feel and look natural. After the teeth are prepared, an impression of your teeth is taken to make an exact replica of your teeth. In some cases, so little of the tooth is removed that temporary coverage of the tooth is not necessary. In other cases, temporary veneers are applied to the teeth.
On the second visit, the porcelain veneers are placed and are checked for proper fit, color and contour, and the bite is adjusted.  Similar to composite bonding, veneers are attached directly to existing tooth structure. Your teeth will be etched with a mildly acidic solution. This roughens the tooth surface and allows the veneer to adhere to the tooth. When the veneers are applied, a tooth-colored liquid bonding material is applied, and the dentist shines a strong light to the area to harden the bonding agents. The excess bonding material will be trimmed, and the veneer is polished to achieve a natural luster.
What to Expect From Porcelain Veneers?
Veneers can last for years, depending on how well they are taken care of by the patient. Because veneers are stronger and smoother than composite bonding, they are also more resistant to chipping and staining. You must maintain excellent oral hygiene at home and visit us for routine cleanings and examinations. This ensures that your veneers will look as good as new. You should also limit ingestion of staining foods such as tea, coffee, blueberries, tobacco products and red wine. Oral habits such as nail biting and chewing on hard objects could damage the veneers.
Final Thoughts
Porcelain veneer restorations are functional, durable, and cosmetic. The cosmetic results frequently exceed the expectations of the patient in even the most challenging cases. The decision to enhance your smile with veneers is a very personal one. Even the subtle change in your smile can make an exceptional difference in the way you look and feel. When you feel good, you look great. An enhanced smile helps you project an image of health and confidence and high personal esteem. If you have any further questions about porcelain veneers or other aspects of cosmetic dentistry, please feel free to ask us! |
