Short answer
A porcelain veneer is a thin, tooth-shaped shell bonded to the front of a tooth to change its colour, shape or size. Veneers need some of the tooth surface to be removed, which cannot be undone. A dentist checks that your teeth and gums are healthy enough before recommending them.
What are porcelain veneers?
Veneers are thin shells of porcelain made to fit over the front of a tooth. They can change the look of teeth that are stained, chipped, worn, uneven or gapped.
Who may and may not be suited?
Veneers suit people with healthy teeth and gums who want a cosmetic change. They may not suit people with untreated decay or gum disease, those who grind their teeth heavily, or those with very little enamel. Your dentist will assess you and may suggest other options, such as bonding.
The process
- Consultation. You talk about what you want and the dentist examines your teeth.
- Planning. The dentist explains the options and the steps.
- Preparation. A thin layer of enamel is usually removed from the tooth surface so the veneer fits. This cannot be reversed.
- Impressions or scans. These are used to make your veneers. You may wear temporary veneers meanwhile.
- Fitting. The dentist checks the fit and colour, then bonds the veneers to your teeth.
- Follow-up. Your bite and the gums are checked.
Caring for veneers
- Brush twice a day and clean between your teeth.
- Avoid biting hard objects such as ice, pen caps and fingernails.
- Ask about a night guard if you grind your teeth.
- Keep your check-ups.
Veneers compared with bonding
- Veneers are made in a lab and usually need more of the tooth to be prepared.
- Bonding applies tooth-coloured resin directly and often needs little or no preparation, but may wear or stain sooner.
Frequently asked questions
- What are porcelain veneers?
- Thin porcelain shells bonded to the front of teeth to change their look.
- How long do they last?
- It varies with your teeth, habits and care. Your dentist can give you an idea for your case.
- Are they reversible?
- No. Part of the tooth surface is usually removed, so the tooth will need a covering from then on.
- Do veneers stain?
- Porcelain resists staining, but the edges and the tooth beneath can still be affected. Good care helps.
- How do veneers compare with bonding?
- Veneers are lab-made and more involved. Bonding is simpler but may not last as long.
Next step
To talk about veneers, read about the clinic's porcelain veneer service or book a consultation. Wetaskiwin Smiles is at 3600 56 St Unit 101, Wetaskiwin, AB T9A 3T5. Call (780) 396-4040 or request an appointment online.