Distinctive Dentistry at Broken Top Bend Dentistry Services

Porcelain Veneers

What are porcelain veneers?

Veneers got their start in Hollywood. Budding young starlets needed a temporary fix for their smile problems. In the 80's a method was devised to permanently adhere porcelain veneers to teeth.

Porcelain Veneers are contact lens thin shells which are glued over prepared tooth enamel. The newest veneers retain a translucent ceramic quality which provides a more natural look. They can instantly fix chipped, discolored, or misshapen teeth. There are two types of veneers-Composite and Porcelain.

Composite Resin Veneers

Composite resin veneers can either be directly built up in the mouth or fabricated in a lab and later bonded to the teeth using resin cement. They are thinner and require less removal of tooth surface than porcelain veneers. This is the more affordable but not as long lasting option. Composite veneers will typically last 5-7 years.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers can only be fabricated in the lab and than later bonded to the teeth. Long lasting ( typically lasting 10-15 years) and durable, porcelain veneers are prized for their natural appearance and stain resistant quality.

Which option is for me?

Either option can instantly provide uniform color, shape, and symmetry. And both options have the same advantages.

Complete change in tooth appearance
Minimal tooth preparation
Little or no anesthetic needed
Long lasting
Routine oral hygiene maintenance

Typically it will take three visits to make your veneers.

1.Plan- To determine size, shape and type of veneer
2.Prepare-To remove a thin layer of enamel to accommodate the veneer and to fit temporary veneers.
3.Place- The dentist will fit your permanent veneers in place.

Do veneers need any special maintenance?

You will need to continue a good oral hygiene routine of brushing and flossing and it would be good to avoid stain causing foods or beverages. It is also sometimes recommended to avoid foods that are hard to bite down on. They have been known to cause cracks or chips. For more information