The Porcelain Veneers Process + Procedure

The porcelain veneer procedure, start to finish, begins with you looking in the mirror and noticing that you have lost one of your best assets, your smile. It’s just not the same. When you smile you show your teeth and your teeth need some help. This is step one, wanting to invest in this asset of yours. Step two is having a detailed conversation with your dentist about your options. Your teeth may be stained, cracked, chipped or crooked. How can you improve on any of these? Composite veneers are cheaper, but are not as durable and last half as long as porcelain veneers. Porcelain veneers are a commitment. The procedure is irreversible once you take the plunge. But, that smile. Let’s jump in and do it!

The Details of a Porcelain Veneer Procedure

Once you and your dentist have agreed that this is the avenue you wish to take, the first thing you collaborate on is the correct shade that you wish the veneers to be. How white is white? After that is done the dentist will make an impression of your teeth. This is the model which the dental lab will work with when they make your new porcelain veneers. Some labs today are introducing CAD/CAM technology to fabricate your veneers. The dentist needs to remove some of your enamel from the tooth or teeth to make room for your new veneer. In fact, it may require a quick temporary veneer to protect the tooth while you await the final porcelain veneer. Once they are delivered from the lab your dentist will finish the prep work. The veneer and the tooth are cleaned properly, adhesive is applied to the tooth, and the veneer is cemented into place. A high intensity light may be used to accelerate the drying process of the adhesive. That’s it! You’re finished. Look in the mirror and notice the immediate improvement in your smile.

Recovery, Post Procedure and Proper Care of Your New Smile

Most of the time no local anesthetic is used for the procedure. Your teeth may be a little sensitive for a short while, they have experienced just a bit of trauma. But it’s all systems go. Porcelain veneers cannot be repaired. Even though they are very durable you will be advised to watch biting on nuts or using your teeth to open packages. Let’s call it common sense. If you are a coffee drinker or enjoy red wine you’ll like your new porcelain veneers. They will not stain like your natural enamel. It of course is still strongly advised that you continue with good oral hygiene. The health industry suggests brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. This is for everyone. No exceptions. They also want you to brush well. No rushing. It would be a shame to invest in your porcelain veneers and then get lazy and end up with gum disease because you didn’t brush and you let plaque buildup. What is your smile and self-confidence worth?

More About Porcelain Veneers : Composite vs Porcelain Veneers