What is is:
A veneer, also known as porcelain veneer or dental porcelain laminate, is an extremely natural looking dental restoration that typically covers the outside or visible surface of teeth. Veneers are usually placed on the anterior or “front teeth” to change their shape, size, color, and position with minimal removal of tooth structure and are the most conservative tooth-colored porcelain restoration that can be fabricated.
They are used for cosmetic enhancements as well as to cover defects such as white spots, brown spots, and tetracycline stains that occurred during child development. Veneers are permanently bonded into place and cannot be taken off.
Procedure:
- Dr. Zaugg will examine your teeth to make sure you are a good candidate for veneers
- Dr. Zaugg may take x-rays and an impression of your mouth and teeth
- Dr. Zaugg will remove about 0.50mm of enamel off the tooth surface
- Dr. Zaugg will make a model or impression of your tooth to send to a dental laboratory
- The lab will construct your veneer
- When the veneers are ready, Dr. Zaugg will temporarily place it on your tooth to examine its fit and color and to remove and trim as need for proper fit
- The tooth will then be cleaned, polished, and etched (roughens the tooth for a strong bond)
- A special cement is applied to the veneer and then Dr. Zaugg places it on your tooth
- Dr. Zaugg then uses a special light to activate chemicals in the cement, causing it to cure (harden)
- Dr. Zaugg then removes any excess cement and evaluate your bite, making any final adjustments if necessary
Benefits:
Porcelain veneers can help fix teeth that are discolored, worn down, chipped or broken, misaligned, uneven or irregularly shaped and teeth with gaps between them. They provide a natural tooth appearance, are stain resistant and can be selected to make dark teeth appear whiter.
