A porcelain veneer is a thin shell of custom-made porcelain that’s crafted to fit over the front of a tooth. A veneer is bonded to the tooth and conceals flaws, including poor shape, misalignment, and discoloration.
Porcelain veneers have been called “instant orthodontics,” and they are one of the fastest-growing areas of interest in the world of cosmetic dentistry. Few other procedures offer such fast and dramatic results, but open communication is absolutely critical in making sure the end results match your expectations. A smile makeover is a significant financial commitment. Dr. Perry will interview you thoroughly, and your answers will help him create a smile that is exactly right for you.
Porcelain Veneers Procedure
We offer this overview of the porcelain veneer procedure so that you can start gathering information about whether or not this process might be right for you.
At the initial appointment, Dr. Perry and his staff will gather information about your dental history and what you have in mind for your new smile. He’ll take into account the structure of your face, your personality, the image you would like to convey, and even your complexion and hair color. When he has a thorough understanding of what you want, Dr. Perry will design your new smile.
At your first appointment, your teeth will be prepared for the veneers by the removal of about a fingernail’s width of material (.3 to .5 millimeter). Some veneers, such as Lumineers, may not require this step.
After preparation, your teeth will feel a little strange and be extra sensitive to air and cold. Dr. Perry will take an impression of your teeth, which will be used by the dental laboratory to create your veneers to the exact specifications provided by Dr. Perry.
The next appointment is for try-in. This is where Dr. Perry makes sure that the veneers will look, feel, and function exactly as you want them to. It is very important that you are absolutely honest if you are not happy with the way the veneers look before they are permanently placed. Only minor changes can be made once the veneers are fixed in place.
At the final appointment, the veneers are bonded to your teeth. In some cases, Dr. Perry may combine the try-in and bonding appointments. After the veneers are placed, they are polished so you leave our office with a gleaming, gorgeous smile.