Porcelain Veneers

Veneering usually requires at least two visits. The first visit may take up to two hours. During this visit:

• Your dentist carefully examines your teeth and determines the correct color shade for the veneer. The dentist then removes a very small amount of tooth enamel (typically 0.5 – 0.7 mm) to provide room to place the veneer on the tooth.
• The dentist then takes an impression to create an exact replica of your teeth. This impression is used to make a model for your custom made porcelain veneer.
• Temporary veneers may or may not be placed depending on the amount of tooth structure removed and type of changes made during the visit.

The second visit is when the transformation happens and may also take between one to two hours. During this visit:

• The dentist removes any temporary veneers.
• The porcelain veneer fit is evaluated by a dentist and then by you. This is a time for you to check the shape and color, fit and feel of the veneers to see if they meet your expectations before, they are bonded to your teeth. The dentist can usually make any changes you want before they are bonded to your teeth. Once porcelain veneers are bonded it is best not to adjust them.
• Once you approve of your veneers your teeth will be thoroughly cleaned with pumice and water or a mild acidic solution. A tooth-colored bonding adhesive is applied to the teeth and veneer, then dried and light cured to your teeth to create a strong bond.
• Lastly, any excess material is removed and your veneers are polished.
• Now you’re ready to show off your new smile!

When it comes to choosing a solution, which should you pick? If the issues with your teeth are minor and don’t need extensive treatment, dental bonding is a terrific choice. Dental bonding utilizes a tooth-colored resin bonded to the surface of the tooth. The material is highly durable and specially made to match the color of your existing teeth. Bonding can improve the appearance of the teeth with little or no drilling or anesthesia. Bonding is typically done as a one appointment procedure so it’s often considered a “faster” procedure than a porcelain veneer, which takes at least two appointments.

Keep in mind bonding is used primarily as a way to improve the appearance of the front teeth or “smile zone.”  Bonded teeth are not strong enough to withstand the pressure exerted on the back teeth or any of the chewing surfaces of the teeth, especially if you’re a habitual ice cruncher. Composite resin materials also have a tendency to stain rather easily, especially if you smoke, drink coffee or tea, or eat certain types of foods. Veneers, on the other hand, are a highly stain-resistant solution and strong enough to be applied to all teeth.

The biggest challenge with bonding is the limitations of the material. It’s often harder to cover very dark or discolored teeth. The ability to get an excellent result really depends on your dentist’s artistic skills and ability to manipulate the materials inside your mouth in a way that attempts to match the quality of porcelain veneer. A single tooth or a few teeth are relatively straightforward, but an entire smile can be challenging to get consistent results.  

Veneers, on the other hand, are created from a detailed mold and fit your teeth precisely. Veneers can create a beautiful, white, and even smile almost immediately and can typically cover cracks, stains, and poorly shaped teeth much more effectively than bonding. Veneers also allow for minimal removal of tooth structure and can be made to the ideal shape, size, and color.

The downside to veneers is they often come with a higher price tag due to being custom made and taking an additional appointment to place. Our practice favors veneers more often than bonding because, at the end of the day, we can simply get better looking results with veneers. Ultimately, however, it’s best to speak with your dentist about the specific advantages and disadvantages of each solution so you can make the decision that’s right for you.