Overview of Tooth Veneers
Often an alternative to crowns, veneers are very thin
pieces of specially-shaped porcelain or plastic that are glued over the front of your
teeth with little or no anesthesia needed. They are the cure for teeth that are severely
discolored, chipped, have small holes or pits, misshapen or crooked, or for the correction
of unwanted or uneven spaces. Unlike crowns, veneers won't require the dentist to remove
much of the tooth itself in most cases. It is important to ask your dentist how
much tooth will be removed. In some cases more tooth will need to be removed, which may
increase the risk of trauma to the tooth. Veneers are created from an impression taken in
your dentist's office. Your custom veneer is then glued directly onto your tooth.
Typically costing less than crowns, veneers won't stain, making veneers a very popular
solution for many people seeking that perfect smile. Strong and very durable, veneers last
from ten to fifteen years, and come in colors that will brighten dark teeth without the
worry of them changing color.
How are Tooth Veneers Attached to your
Tooth?
In your first appointment, it is important to initially
discuss with your dentist that you will want to "try in" your veneers
with temporary cement that is the same color cement as will be used for the permanent
attachment. During this "try-in" phase, be sure to look at your veneers in natural light in
addition to the office light. Teeth are prepared for veneers by lightly buffing to allow
for the small added thickness of the veneer. Veneers are thin like
contact lenses, and will usually only need tooth reduction of 0.5mm to
1.0mm. If a drastic change is being made for the result you want,
reduction may be 1.0mm to 2.0mm. A mold is taken of the teeth, from which the
veneers are modeled after. Temporary veneers will be placed and worn
until your permanent veneers are ready. While wearing the temporary
veneers, advise your dentist of any adjustments or changes you
would like made, such as in shape or size. These changes will be
translated into your permanent veneers, so good communication between
you and your dentist is important in achieving your new smile.
Your dentist places the veneers with water or glycerin on the
teeth to verify their perfect fit and the shade or color. The color cannot be changed
after the veneers are adhered to your teeth. The tooth is then cleansed with chemicals to
achieve a durable bond. Once the glue is between the veneer and your tooth, a light beam
is used to harden the glue/cement.
The procedure for Lumineers is
different than the above traditional porcelain veneers. Still two
visits, but there is little to no preparation of the tooth and no need
for temporary veneers.
Next: Types of
veneers for your teeth
- Introduction to tooth veneers section
- Causes of discoloration of the teeth
- Who is a candidate for dental veneers?
- Procedure description: veneers
- Types of veneers available for your teeth
- How much do dental veneers cost?
- Pros and cons of getting veneers
- Before and after pictures - dental veneers
- Personal stories from tooth veneer patients
- How to select the color of your veneers
- Dental veneers message board and discussion
  
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