What are porcelain veneers? 

Porcelain laminate veneers are thin custom-made shells of porcelain that are bonded directly to the teeth.  They are used to treat gaps and teeth that are permanently stained, poorly shaped, or out of alignment.

What are the risks and benefits of porcelain veneers?

Porcelain laminate veneers provide excellent esthetic results.  They stain less than composite bonded veneers and may have a more natural appearance.  Although it is quite unusual, they can fracture, which requires replacement.  Rarely sensitivity can develop following placement, which could be severe enough to warrant root canal therapy.

What procedures are involved in the placement of porcelain veneers?

Usually you will be evaluated for the need for bleaching prior to placing veneers or any other cosmetic dentistry.  Once your natural teeth have achieved the best color possible, veneers can be started.

During your first placement appointment, you will receive a local anesthetic. Your teeth will be prepared to receive the veneers by removing a small amount of tooth structure.  An impression will be made of your mouth to send to the lab to have your veneers made.  Temporary veneers will be placed for you to wear until your permanent ones are ready.

You will return to the office for placement of the veneers, usually in about three weeks. During this appointment, the temporary veneers will be removed and the permanent ones bonded onto your teeth.  Local anesthetic may or may not be required.

The teeth are prepared by cleaning, removing old restorations, and a small amount of tooth structure to make room for the veneer.  The shape, size and shade of the teeth are determined.  An impression is made of the prepared teeth, and a bite registration is taken to assure the correct correlation between the upper and lower teeth.  Temporary veneers are placed.

The laboratory makes the porcelain veneers, which usually takes about three weeks.  The veneers are tried in to verify the size, shape, color, and fit.  The teeth are etched and rinsed and then bonded into place.