Porcelain veneers, alternatively termed porcelain laminates, are thin,
shell-like slices of ceramic bonded to the front of the teeth. They are one of the most
natural-looking and long-lasting restorations available. They can be used in the
following instances:
As instant orthodontics, to close spaces between the teeth (diastemas) or align
crooked and crowded teeth
To restore broken, chipped, or misshapen teeth
As an alternative to whitening of permanently stained or discolored teeth
As a longer lasting solution for unsightly, stained, or washed-out fillings
Porcelain Veneers vs. Crowns and Composite Restorations
Veneers have several advantages over crowns and composite fillings:
There is no "dark line" that is sometimes seen with older front crowns.
They require a minimal amount of tooth reduction. Therefore they are a more conservative
restoration than a crown.
Unlike bondings or crowns fused to metal, porcelain veneers are translucent. When they are
bonded onto a tooth's surface they mimic characteristics of enamel beneath them. This property
of translucency is an important part of what gives teeth their characteristic appearance,
providing a sense of depth, and thus a very lifelike appearance. The final result is an
esthetically pleasing naturalness that is unsurpassed by other restorative options.
Unlike bondings, the surface of porcelain veneers is extremely smooth and impervious. This
means it will not pick up permanent stains, and it will preserve its original color for
years.
Porcelain Veneer Preparation
Porcelain veneers are applied in two visits. At the first visit, the tooth is lightly buffed to allow for the small, added thickness of the veneer, usually about 1.5 millimeters of the tooth. Then a mold is taken, which is sent to a laboratory for fabrication of the veneer.Temporary veneers are placed to sustain the cosmetic appearance during the fabrication
process.
On the
second visit, the temporary is removed, and the restoration is fitted, cemented, and adjusted to
fit your bite and smile. Once your veneers are permanently placed, they will feel like a natural
part of your teeth, and you can use them just as you would your regular teeth. This procedure can
greatly enhance your smile and can heighten inner satisfaction and self-esteem.
Before & After
Case 1
Teeth were previously restored with fillings that had discolored. The
fillings were replaced with porcelain veneers that beautifully match the color of natural
teeth and blend perfectly with the rest of the dentition.
Case 2
Porcelain veneers were placed on the front four teeth to close the space
between two centrals and to improve the overall appearance of the worn down dentition.
Case 3
The teeth were whitened and porcelain veneers were placed to straighten
upper front teeth that were crowded and worn down.
Case 4
The misshapen teeth with spaces between them were restored with porcelain
veneers, forming a perfect arch and a beautiful smile
Case 5
Porcelain veneers were placed over discolored and chipped teeth to give
the patient a beautiful smile.
Case 6
Severe tetracycline staining (unresponsive to tooth whitening) was
eradicated by the use of porcelain veneers.
