Dental veneers are designed to cover the surfaces of teeth to hide stains, chips, and other cosmetic flaws of the teeth. Veneers are made from resins or porcelain. Dental veneers are also called dental laminates, porcelain laminates, or porcelain veneers.
Some stains on teeth such as those deep stains from some medications do not respond well to teeth bleaching methods. Porcelain veneers are an alternative to bleaching and other teeth whitening methods. In addition to stains, dental veneers can hide flaws such as signs of wear, cracks, broken teeth, and minor misalignment of the teeth.
The process of getting dental veneers usually involves three or four dentist office visits. During the first office visit, the dentist may take x-rays and discuss the treatment options. The dentist may make impressions of the patient’s teeth to help the dentist plan for the veneers.
The teeth are prepared for the veneers during the second office visit. About half a millimeter of the teeth to receive the veneers must be removed. An impression of the teeth may be taken at this stage to help with the construction of the veneers.
Once the veneers are finished, the teeth to be covered with veneers will be polished and etched to prepare the teeth for the bonding process. Bonding cement is put on the veneer before the veneer is placed over the tooth. To activate the bonding cement, the dentist may use a special light. Another dentist visit may be needed as a follow up to the process. This is to check the placement of the veneers and check for any problems.
Veneers are used to cover the front surface of the teeth. The patient should understand that the back of the teeth are not covered. Good dental hygiene and regular dental visits are necessary for good dental health whether or not the person has veneers.
Dental veneers are not meant to cover up unhealthy teeth. Tooth decay and gum disease must be treated before dental veneers are used. Veneers may need to be replaced. Some veneers may last up to twenty years, while others may need to be replaced after five years. The patient should discuss the maintenance of the dental veneers with their dentist.
