Veneers

Veneers, usually customized from porcelain, are a thin, semi-translucent "shell", permanently bonded to your teeth. While they're not suitable for every patient, veneers are a cosmetic alternative for a variety of dental conditions of the front teeth, including:

• Diastemas (spaces between the teeth)
• Broken or chipped teeth
• Unsightly, stained or washed out fillings
• Permanently stained or discolored teeth
• Misshapen or crooked teeth

Advantages and Benefits of Veneers

At one time, resin tooth colored fillings or crowns were the only available treatment for cosmetic changes. Today, a third alternative is available . . . veneers!

There are many benefits and advantages to having veneers placed on your front teeth. The advantages of veneers may include all of the following considerations:

• Only a small amount of tooth structure (if any) is removed during the procedure, usually 1-2 mm from the front surface
• A healthy "natural" look is achieved with little or no discomfort
• A natural change in shade & shape of your permanent tooth

How Are Veneers Different From Fillings or Crowns?

A composite resin filling may be used when only a small amount of tooth structure needs replacement. A veneer is indicated when a portion of the front surface of the tooth needs a "face lift". A full crown is indicated when a tooth has had a root canal treatment, or when a substantial amount of the entire tooth structure (enamel) has been lost.

How Are Veneers Performed?

Similar to a resin (plastic) bonding procedure, veneers are bonded and cemented directly to your existing tooth structure. At the first veneer appointment the teeth will be prepared and an impression will be taken, to make an exact replica of your prepared teeth. Seldom temporaries are needed, but if they are, plastic veneers are fabricated at this first visit. During your second veneering appointment, your teeth will be etched with a mild acid solution and the veneers are bonded with a tooth colored liquid resin material. Even a subtle change in your smile can make an exceptional difference in the way you look and feel.

"It is exciting to see the change that cosmetic dentistry can make for my patients. I am glad to be able to create these new smiles for people."
Dr. Frederick C. Prehn

What to Expect

Veneers can last for years depending on how well they are taken care of by you. Because veneers are stronger than simple bonding, they are also more resistant to stains and chipping.

You must maintain regular oral hygiene at home and visit Dr. Prehn for routine cleaning and exams. This is to ensure that your new veneers will look as good as new.

In some cases, certain foods and substances can cause discoloration. These include tea, coffee, red wine, other heavily pigmented foods, and tobacco. Veneers can chip or peel off if not cared for properly, so avoid habits such as fingernail biting and chewing on hard objects.