Types Of Veneers
Veneers can be made from several different types of materials. Generally your dentist will help you decide which type is best for you.
- Porcelain veneers
- Lumineers
- Composite veneers
Porcelain veneers are the most common type of veneers. Porcelain has a very shiny surface that closely resembles your enamel and will give you a more natural and translucent appearance. In addition, porcelain is stain resistant and it is also very friendly to your gums.
Veneer Treatment
It normally takes two visits for your dentist to complete your veneers. If preparation is necessary, on the first visit your dentist will use a dental hand piece to shape and prepare the teeth so the veneers will properly fit over them. Next, an impression of your teeth is taken and temporary veneers may be placed to protect the prepared teeth. The impression of your teeth is then sent to a dental laboratory where custom-fit veneers are made. During this first visit your dentist will also help you choose the proper shade for the color of your veneers.
In most cases, on your second visit the veneers are placed and, if necessary, adjusted to create a proper fit. If the fit, shape and color of the veneers are satisfactory, your dentist will proceed with permanently cementing them into place.
Repairing & Caring For Dental Veneers
Porcelain Veneers are usually not repairable should they chip or crack so you should attempt to avoid biting directly on small hard items such as hard candies, your fingernails, or pens. And you should never chew on anything cold and hard such as ice.
If you grind your teeth during the day or at night, your dentist may recommend a night guard to protect your veneers from these grinding forces. A night guard is a plastic cover that fits over your teeth to deflect hard forces. Night guard will also increase the longevity of your veneers.
