Veneers and Laminates
Veneers are ultra-thin sculpted pieces of
tooth-shaped porcelain that fit over the front of your
teeth. They are wonderful for fixing teeth that are
significantly disc olored,
chipped, pitted, malformed, or crooked, or if you have
unwanted spaces. In certain situations, a change in
upper lip fullness and balance can be obtained by
placing porcelain laminate veneers on your four front
teeth.
Unlike crowns or caps, porcelain laminate veneers
don't require the removal of much tooth structure.
Veneers are usually created in a dental laboratory from
an impression taken in the dental office. During the
first visit, the color is matched using a shade guide
then the teeth are filed down a bit. Then the teeth are
fitted with temporaries while the veneers are being
created at the lab. Then the veneers are cemented
directly onto your teeth and polished to a natural,
aesthetic smile.
Veneers are stronger and have a longer life than
bonding, but the process requires more time. Veneers
won't stain, making them a popular means of improving
your smile. Treatment may take two or more office visits
to complete and can last for up to 15 years.
Go back to Patient Education
|