| A veneer is a custom made
porcelain shell or facing which is bonded onto the front surface a
tooth. Veneers can be an alternative to traditional crowns and can be
used to change the appearance of unsightly or discolored teeth, or alter
the appearance of misshaped or crooked teeth. They may also be used to
close gaps between teeth. Technique: For
a more complex case, the dentist may start with a diagnostic wax-up to
evaluate the appearance of the finished case.
Simple veneers generally involve 2 appointments: At
the first appointment, the dentist trims the front and top surfaces of
the tooth to allow for the thickness of the veneer to cover the tooth.
The dentist will take an accurate impression mold of these prepared
teeth which is sent to the dental laboratory. The dentist in most cases
will then create temporary acrylic veneers which will be temporarily and
spot cemented on the teeth prepared.
When the patient returns for the second appointment
one to two weeks later, the dentist will remove the temporary veneers,
and permanently cement the laboratory fabricated porcelain veneers
on the teeth.
Veneers can last for many years and will not change
color over time. For this reason, cosmetic whitening of the other teeth
should be considered prior to veneers. |
