Veneers
What are porcelain veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin shells of ceramic that bond directly to the front and top surfaces of the teeth. They are an ideal choice for improving your smile and have become increasingly popular due to their simplicity and versatility. With veneers as an alternative, there is no reason to put up with gaps between your teeth, teeth that are stained, badly shaped or crooked. A veneer placed on top of your teeth can correct these maladies, simply and quickly, to help you achieve a beautiful smile!
Will they look like normal teeth?
When bonded to the teeth, the ultra-thin porcelain veneers are virtually undetectable and highly resistant to coffee, tea, or even cigarette stains. For strength and appearance, their resemblance to healthy, white tooth enamel is unsurpassed by other restorative options. Because they are thin, light can shine through them and they take on the natural color of the underlying tooth.
How durable are porcelain veneers?
Current research tells us that porcelain veneers have approximately a 93% success rate over 15 years. Dr. Lewis will discuss the specifics of your situation at your appointment. He will also ensure that your veneers are crafted from the highest quality porcelains and are bonded with the most proven materials and techniques available.
The Procedure
This procedure will require three appointments:
- Diagnosis and treatment planning with photography and models of your teeth
- Preparation of teeth
- Bonding of veneers
Diagnosis and treatment planning:
You will want to take an active role in planning your smile design. Dr. Lewis will review this procedure and help you plan your new smile.
Preparation:
Although the porcelain veneer is very thin, the teeth are prepared to allow for the porcelain thickness. Approximately one half to one millimeter of tooth is removed.
A mold is taken of the teeth and sent to the lab for fabrication. We provide temporary veneers which will be placed at this time. The veneer should be ready in approximately two weeks (depending on number of teeth involved).
Bonding:
At the time of your third appointment, Dr. Lewis will first place the veneer on your teeth with water or glycerin to check their fit and color. At this point the color of the veneer can still be adjusted by the shade of the cement used to adhere it. Once the color is determined, and the veneer is ready to be applied, the tooth is cleansed to achieve a bond. A special cement is placed between the teeth and the veneer and a visible light beam is used to harden the cement.
Care and follow up:
Brush and floss daily. Return for a follow-up visit after one to two weeks.
Maintenance of your new Veneers:
Brush and floss as you normally would. Don’t be afraid that you will damage your veneers by brushing and flossing. Non-abrasive toothpaste is recommended. A good home care regimen will insure the best esthetic success of your veneers. You may experience some sensitivity to hot and cold after placement of your veneer. Sensitivity is normal and should dissipate soon. If sensitivity persists please call the office.
If you know that you clench or grind your teeth, please be sure to let us know. Dr. Lewis may recommend a night guard for you to wear to minimize stress placed upon your teeth while you sleep.
We hope that you are very happy with your new veneers. With proper home care and scheduled visits, they are sure to provide you with a beautiful smile for years to come.