Facts About Porcelain Veneers

No other procedure is so simple to perform and yet provides the patient with such amazing results as those obtained from porcelain veneers. Porcelain veneers are used by cosmetic dentists to create the image of healthy, perfect teeth for those who have worn enamel, crooked teeth with spaces, or obvious chips or cracks. They provide a versatile tool for improving the looks of a less-than-perfect smile.

Although composite veneers are also an option, porcelain is the most desirable material choice. Both types of veneers are applied in the same way but porcelain will last longer. In addition to creating a more appealing smile, veneers also provide a protective covering for damaged teeth. Once the veneer is bonded to the tooth, it is strong and durable but you should not abuse veneers to be certain they do not become damaged. Your dentist will tell you what safeguards to take such as eliminating some of your current dietary habits.

The procedure for applying porcelain veneers will generally take two office visits over a period of several weeks. During these visits, your teeth will be examined and prepared for the procedure. If you have any concerns with the health of your teeth or gums, they will be assessed. You will also work with a Montreal dentist to choose the right shade of veneers for your teeth to give the best results.

The dentist will usually administer a local anesthetic to help relax you during the procedure. The tooth will be somewhat reshaped to make the veneer fit. Next, an impression of your teeth will be made and sent out to have the veneers made. Some veneers are fabricated in-house while others are sent to a professional lab specifically for this purpose.

You may receive temporary veneers on your first visit depending on whether the dentist has an in-house lab or must wait for the permanent veneers to be made or you may have the final veneers placed during the first visit. When the permanent veneers are applied, they will be bonded to the tooth with one of several types of resin cement.

While there is no required recovery time from having veneers placed on your teeth, some people experience a greater sensitivity to heat and cold after either the temporary or permanent veneers are applied. Otherwise, porcelain veneers offer a simple, effective way of creating a beautiful, healthy looking smile.