Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are custom-made, tooth-colored shells that cover the front side of your teeth and are a quick way to get a perfect smile. These thin porcelain pieces provide strength and resilience that rival your natural tooth enamel with less hassle than crowns or braces. However, veneers are irreversible, so please make sure that you have asked all of your medical and financial questions before they are placed. Most porcelain veneers can last anywhere between 10 and 20 years.
Are porcelain veneers for me?
Veneers are most common for those with teeth that are:
- Stained
- Decayed
- Gapped
- Chipped
- Crooked
- Fractured
Porcelain veneers are irreversible due to the enamel that is removed from your tooth. These generally last between 10 and 20 years, so please make sure to ask all questions before undergoing the procedure.
If you think you might be a good candidate for veneers, call our office to set up an appointment with Dr. Melazzo.
What is the procedure like?
The placement of veneers usually takes two visits to our office.
First Visit
During your first visit to our office, we will make a model of your teeth to send off to a dental technician. One of our dentists will clean your tooth, then some of your tooth’s enamel will be removed to make space for the veneer. Dr. Melazzo will take an impression of your tooth and place a temporary veneer. Before your second visit, we will receive your permanent porcelain veneers.
Second Visit
First, we will remove your temporary veneer and clean your tooth and porcelain veneer. Then, we will place adhesive and cement to ensure that your veneer will stay in place. Finally, the veneer is placed and light cured for one minute.
You may be asked to schedule a check-up after the procedure to ensure your comfort with the new veneer.
How long will it take me to heal?
Your veneer should instantly start to feel like a part of your natural teeth. You can brush and floss your veneer with the rest of your teeth. However, you should limit consumption of dark foods and beverages like coffee, tea or red wine to keep your veneer from being stained or discolored.