Dental Veneers
A dental veneer is a layer of medical-grade porcelain or resin composite that is placed over the facial surfaces of your teeth for an immediate smile transformation while also providing strength and resilience comparable to natural tooth enamel. It is often the treatment of choice for those looking to make slight tooth position alterations, or to change tooth shape, size, and/or color. Individually crafted for each patient, these cosmetic enhancements are made from advanced material that closely resembles the appearance of natural dental enamel. Thanks to their lifelike appearance and wide array of functions, porcelain veneers rank among the most trusted and popular procedures in cosmetic dentistry.
Candidates
Patients who are considering porcelain veneers are typically looking to address multiple structural or cosmetic issues with their teeth, such as chips, cracks, gaps between teeth, minor misalignment, or discoloration.
In order to have porcelain veneers placed, patients should:
- Have good periodontal and overall oral health
- Be committed to proper oral care and hygiene
- Have specific cosmetic goals, which they can articulate to their dentists at their initial consultations, as well as realistic expectations
- Have a sufficient amount of healthy enamel, as dentists usually remove a thin layer of enamel before placing veneers
Signs that veneers may not be the right choice
Patients with conditions such as tooth decay, gum disease, and root canal infection typically do not qualify for veneers. However, after a dentist successfully treats these issues, patients are usually cleared for cosmetic enhancement.
Some patients who habitually grind their teeth may be disqualified from receiving veneers. Although dental porcelain is quite strong and durable, the forces of bruxism can put incredible strain on veneers, causing them to break or come off entirely. In many cases, a dentist may be able to treat the underlying causes of bruxism, eventually enabling patients to receive veneers. Additionally, newly developed dental materials allow ceramists to create stronger restorations that may be suitable for such patients.
The only way a patient can fully determine his or her candidacy for veneers is by scheduling an appointment with a skilled cosmetic dentist. After evaluating health history, current dental health, and the condition of a patient’s enamel, a dentist can make an informed decision regarding a patient’s suitability for this treatment. He or she can also recommend alternative treatments for non-qualifying patients.
Case 1: Single-visit CAD/CAM veneers
43 year-old patient with a chief complaint of unsatisfied tooth shape, tooth color, spacing, and unpleasant smile.
A minimal tooth preparation was done to create space for porcelain veneers.
Before and After Photos
Case 2: 2-visit E-max porcelain veneers
32 year-old patient with a chief complaint of unsatisfied tooth color and unpleasant smile.
Before and After Photos
