Dental Veneers

Definition: a thin, custom-made layer of tooth-colored porcelain or composite placed on the front of the teeth to correct some conditions and to provide a natural look.

The procedure is used in the case of:

• Discolored teeth;
• Worn-down tooth;
• Chipped or broken tooth;
• Irregularly shaped teeth such as misaligned, uneven teeth; 
• Teeth with gaps between them.

How does it work?

First, the doctor will need to evaluate the state of your teeth and give you the pros and cons of the procedure. After discussing its efficiency regarding your problem, the proper work starts if you agree with the terms and conditions. You will probably need an injection to the gum to numb the area (but not necessarily), after which the doctor starts to clean and polish the front layer of the tooth. The amount of enamel being removed is the same as the thickness of the veneer. Then the doctor will take a mold of your tooth and choose the shade of the veneer to be the same as your other teeth, sending it to the laboratory for preparation. The first visit will probably end with the placement of a temporary composite veneer on the tooth (if the doctor’s office does not have a laboratory that prepares the permanent ones). On the second visit, the doctor removes the temporary veneer, and if the porcelain one fits, he will cement it on the front of the tooth. The cementing process is completed by using a special light beam. The only thing that remains is to make the final adjustments to the veneer.

What are the risks?

• The treatment is not reversible;
• The veneer can chip or crack, which is not repairable;
• The color can be different from the rest of your teeth;
• The veneer can fall off;
• The tooth may become more sensitive because of the removal of the enamel;

How to prepare for the procedure?

There is no special preparation other than brushing and flossing your teeth.

How long does the procedure take?

It will take two appointments with the doctor to perform the procedure. Each one may last an hour or more.

How to recover after the procedure?

• Avoid hot or cold meals for a couple of days, as the tooth is more sensitive;
• Avoid biting your nails, chewing pens, biting hard food, or any other actions that put extra pressure on the tooth and might crack or chip the veneer;
• Avoid drinking red wine, coffee, and other meals that might leave stains on the porcelain;
• Avoid abrasive toothpaste as the porcelain is highly polishable;
• Provide proper oral hygiene;
• You will probably need another visit to the doctor after a week or so for the follow-up;
• If the veneer is cared for properly it should last 10 to 15 years

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You might also be interested in our articles on Dental Bonding and Teeth Whitening to understand more about cosmetic dental treatments