Dental Veneers

Please click on the topics below for further information on dental veneers:

What are Dental Veneers?
Advantages of Veneers
How are Veneers Different from Crowns?
How are Veneers Made?
Longevity?

What are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are a thin, semi-translucent "shell" usually fabricated from porcelain and are custom made to fit precisely over an existing tooth. They are held in place by a special resin that adheres the back of the veneer to the front of the tooth. The veneer is permanently bonded and is extremely strong and durable. Veneers are a cosmetic alternative for a variety of dental conditions affecting the front teeth, including:

• closing diastemas (spaces between the teeth)
• restoring broken or chipped teeth
• covering unsightly, stained or washed-out fillings
• whitening permanently stained or discolored teeth
• correcting uneven or crooked teeth

Advantages of Veneers

When decay, abrasion, chipping, breakage or imperfect development is evident when you smile, we aim to restore your natural smile through cosmetic treatment. There are many benefits and advantages to having porcelain veneers applied to your front teeth. These may include any or all of the following:

1. Only a small amount of natural tooth structure (if any) is removed during the procedure.
2. A healthy, natural look is achieved with little or no discomfort.
3. Veneers are strong, durable and color-stable.

How are Veneers Different from Crowns

A composite resin filling is used when only a small amount of tooth structure needs replacing or repair. A full crown is used when a tooth has had root canal treatment or when a substantial amount of the tooth structure (enamel) has been lost. A porcelain veneer is indicated when a portion of the front surface of a tooth needs a "face lift."

How are Veneers Made?

Similar to resin bonding, veneers are attached directly to the existing tooth structure. During your appointment an impression of your tooth is taken to make an exact replica, we also treat your tooth with a mild conditioning solution. Before the veneer is placed a tooth-colored bonding liquid is applied, which helps the veneer adhere to your natural teeth.

Longevity?

Through regular oral hygiene and routine cleaning and dental examinations veneers can last for years. Because veneers are stronger than simple bonding, they are also more resistant to stains and chipping. To help ensure that your veneers last a long time and keep looking as good as new we recommend you avoid bad habits such as biting nails and chewing ice.

Please feel free to contact us for your oral health care needs!