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Porcelain Veneers

SmileCare Dental of Fitchburg / Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are essentially thin shells that are designed to cover the front surface of your teeth to improve their appearance. They are bonded to your teeth and can be used to change the shape, size, length of color of your teeth. Porcelain veneers resist stains better than resin veneers and look more like your natural teeth.

Veneers are a wonderful option for many patients, but it isn’t a quick process and usually takes three visits to our office. The first visit is for a consultation and the following visits will be to make and apply the veneers.

At your consultation, we will discuss your smile goals. Dr. Kay will examine your teeth to ensure veneers are the right option for you and then discuss the procedure. We may take X-rays and make impressions.

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What is the process for having veneers placed?

To prepare your tooth or teeth for the veneers, the surface of the tooth needs to be reshaped. This means we will remove the amount of tooth equal to the thickness of the veneer so the veneer can blend in seamlessly. You can request to have the area numbed before we begin this process. Then, Dr. Kay will take a model of your tooth that can be sent to a dental lab so the veneer can be fashioned. It can take a few weeks for the veneer to be completed, but don’t worry – we can use a temporary veneer over your tooth until the permanent one is ready.

Once the veneer is ready, you’ll visit our office for placement of the veneer. We’ll place the veneer on the tooth to ensure the fit and color are correct. This is an intricate process that will involve removing and trimming the veneer to ensure Dr. Kay gets the proper fit. Once Dr. Kay is sure of the ideal fit, it will be permanently cemented to your tooth.

Before the veneer is permanently placed, your tooth will be cleaned, polished and etched to roughen the surface and allow for a strong bond. Bonding cement is applied the veneer and the veneer is placed on your tooth. A special light will be used to cure the cement, causing it to harden properly. Then excess cement will be removed, and we will make any final adjustments needed. We may ask you to visit us again in a few weeks so we can be sure the veneer is working properly.

Veneers are used to correct

Tooth Discoloration
Worn Down Teeth
Chipped Teeth
Misaligned Or Uneven Teeth
Irregularly Shaped Teeth
Teeth Gaps

Porcelain Veneers FAQs

What are dental veneers?

Veneers are thin, durable shells that are bonded directly to the surface of a tooth to improve the tooth’s appearance.

Are there different types of veneers?

There are two common materials used for veneers. Composite veneers are resin that is then shaped to fit onto the tooth. Porcelain veneers are made in a lab and are stronger and more resistant to staining.

Why are veneers used?

Patients choose veneers for a variety of reasons. If you are unhappy with the color of your teeth, or you have teeth that are worn down, chipped, uneven or irregularly shaped, veneers are a great option to improve the appearance of your smile.

What is the process for getting dental veneers?

Dental veneers are a multi-step process. After a consultation, you will then have your teeth prepared for the veneer. We will remove a small amount of your tooth structure (equivalent to the thickness of the veneer) in order to allow the veneer to fit seamlessly on your tooth. We will also take an impression and place a temporary veneer until your permanent veneer is made. At the final appointment, we remove the temporary veneer and bond the permanent veneer to the tooth.

What are the advantages to veneers over other treatment options?

Veneers preserve the most natural tooth structure, while still improving the appearance of your teeth. You can choose the color and porcelain veneers are strong and resistant to stains.

Are there any drawbacks to veneers?

If the veneer cracks, we will have to replace the entire veneer, so it is important to avoid chewing on hard objects with your front teeth, such as pencils, or using your teeth as tools. Veneers are not an ideal choice for patients who grind their teeth. You may need to wear a night guard for your teeth. Your teeth are still susceptible to decay even with the veneer, so it is important to maintain good oral health.

How long do veneers last?

While veneers are a permanent solution, the veneer itself won’t last forever. Veneers typically need to be replaced every 5-10 years. If you maintain proper oral care and visit your dentist regularly, your veneer could last even longer.

How do I care for my veneers?

You should care for your veneers the same way you care for your natural teeth. Brush twice a day, floss daily, and visit our office for regular checkups. It can also be helpful to wear a bite guard at night to protect your veneers.

SmileCare Dental of Fitchburg