Porcelain Veneers Replacement Procedure
Porcelain veneers are an extremely popular cosmetic dental treatment. This is because veneers can correct a variety of dental imperfections at once to leave patients with a beautiful smile that complements their facial features. Because veneers are fabricated of high quality porcelain, they are also very durable. However, porcelain veneers are not meant to last a lifetime. With proper care, most patients can expect porcelain veneers to last between 10 and 15 years. When porcelain veneers have reached their lifespan or if an accident or injury occurs and damages the veneers, cosmetic dentists Charles and Patrick Casey offer their Montreal patients porcelain veneer replacement.
Do Porcelain Veneers Have to Be Replaced?
When patients come in for porcelain veneers treatment, the teeth are prepared for placement by removing a small amount of tooth enamel. While the amount of enamel that is removed is minimal, it does permanently alter the teeth. Because of this, the placement of porcelain veneers is considered irreversible. This means that if porcelain veneers do become damaged or worn out, they will need to be replaced, otherwise the teeth will be unprotected and vulnerable to damage, decay, and sensitivity. The following are common reasons for porcelain veneers replacement:
- Porcelain veneers that have become worn down
- A porcelain veneer that has been chipped, cracked, or fractured
- Porcelain veneers that were poorly bonded or have become loose from the teeth
Generally, if veneers are being replaced because they have become worn down or are loose from the teeth, the entire set of veneers will be replaced at the same time. However, it is important to note that if a single porcelain veneer becomes damaged in an accident or injury, it is possible to replace just that single veneer rather than the entire set of veneers.
Replacement Procedure
When porcelain veneers do require replacement, the procedure will be very similar to the initial porcelain veneers treatment. At the beginning of treatment, any remaining porcelain veneers and bonding material will first be removed and the teeth will be cleaned in order to get the teeth back to their original structure. Although the teeth were prepared during the initial treatment procedure, it is likely that the teeth will need to be resurfaced slightly in order to ensure proper fit and bonding of the new veneers.
Dr. Casey will then take impressions of the teeth so that the new veneers can be fabricated to each patient’s exact specifications. Veneers will be designed with a color, size, and shape that best fits and complements each patient. Once the new veneers have been fabricated, Dr. Casey will test them for proper fit and then bond them to the teeth. With proper care and the avoidance of any accidents or injuries, replacement veneers have the same durability as initial veneers, with the possibility to last for up to 15 years.
Schedule an Appointment
It is unfortunate when porcelain veneers require replacement, especially if they have become damaged prematurely. Fortunately, the replacement procedure for porcelain veneers is fairly simple so patients can quickly restore the smile with strong, beautiful veneers. If you are in need of porcelain veneers replacement, schedule an appointment with Dr. Charles or Patrick Casey at your earliest convenience. We look forward to hearing from you!