Veneers offer a transformative solution for teeth that are heavily stained, misshapen, or crooked, enhancing their appearance by placing a thin layer on the affected surfaces.

These thin pieces, crafted from porcelain or plastic, are bonded to the front of teeth to alter their color or shape. Veneers are particularly effective for teeth with uneven surfaces, chips, discoloration, irregular shapes, uneven spacing, or misalignment. The application of veneers typically requires minimal or no anesthesia. Notably, veneers surpass bonding in terms of longevity and color stability, exhibiting high resistance to permanent staining from substances like coffee, tea, or cigarette smoke.

Typically created by dental lab technicians using a model provided by your dentist, veneers are a semi-permanent alteration as a small amount of enamel must be removed from the teeth to accommodate the veneer shell.

Porcelain veneers can effectively conceal various imperfections, including tetracycline stains, discoloration from injuries, or issues arising from root canal procedures. They are also suitable for camouflaging discolored fillings in front teeth and addressing concerns like gaps, chips, or worn teeth.

The veneer placement process generally involves three appointments: diagnosis and treatment planning, preparation, and bonding.

During the tooth preparation phase, lasting one to two hours, a slight buffing of the teeth is done to accommodate the veneer’s added thickness. Approximately half a millimeter of tooth enamel is removed, and a mold is taken for the fabrication of the veneers.

In the final bonding visit, lasting about one to two hours, the veneers are placed on the tooth surface, allowing for adjustments to achieve a proper fit and color match. The veneer is applied using a specific bonding process, including the use of visible light or a laser to harden the cement.

Following the veneer placement, a two-week adjustment period may result in changes in the size and shape of the teeth. Daily oral hygiene practices are crucial during this period. After this adjustment period, a follow-up appointment is scheduled. It’s important to note that while porcelain veneers closely resemble natural teeth, slight variations in color may occur upon close inspection, similar to natural teeth.

For some patients, no tooth preparation may be necessary, and additional information can be found on our specialties page.