Porcelain veneers are durable dental restorations bonded to the teeth to improve their appearance. They can change the shape and size of one’s teeth, and they can close gaps, improve discoloration, and correct alignment. Teeth can deteriorate for many reasons. Smoking, natural aging, lack of proper oral hygiene, grinding, or hereditary causes can contribute to unsightly teeth. Veneers offer a bright, whiter, and more beautiful smile. On top of the aesthetic appearance, they can also help fill missing gaps, one of the reasons for increased risk of infections.
Veneers can be fitted for the entire mouth or a singular tooth, depending on the patient's case. The dentist chooses the color, shape, and length of veneers that best suit the patient's features.
Porcelain veneer fittings take three sessions to complete. The first session concentrates on a consultation to create a mock-up of the result. The next appointment focuses on prepping the teeth for fitting by shaving down some of the enamel. The dentist will administer a local anesthetic first. Once the patient is numb, a dental handpiece is used to shape some parts of the teeth. This process is needed to ensure adequate space to fit the veneer over the existing teeth. After this step, the dentist takes a mold of the teeth, and a customized set of veneers is made from it over the next 1-3 weeks. During this waiting period, patients wear a temporary veneer or set of veneers. To ensure that these veneers last a few weeks, patients should avoid eating or drinking acidic, sweet, hot, cold, and hard foods. During the final session, the patient receives a local anesthetic.
The dentist slightly roughens the surface of the teeth to create a strong bond for the veneers. Dental cement is then applied, and a special light fuses the adhesive to the teeth. Once bonded, final adjustments complete the procedure. The attachment of veneers is a relatively lengthy procedure, and patients can expect it to take three hours for every ten teeth.
Veneers can last a long time and are very durable. But good dental habits are essential to maintain their appearance, and they may need to be replaced every 10-15 years. When a veneer is chipped, it has to be replaced entirely, which is an added cost. To avoid damage, patients should avoid eating or biting hard foods and objects. A non-abrasive toothpaste when brushing is also recommended to protect their polished surface.
