Porcelain veneers are remarkable cosmetic appliances that can permanently transform a smile into a gorgeous new state, and they can pe placed in as few as two appointments. During the first treatment session, your dentist will remove a small amount of enamel from the treated teeth, take bite impressions, and fit you with temporary veneers for you to wear while your permanent set is being manufactured. Here’s a quick look at how porcelain veneers work, how they are placed, and how much enamel must be removed to place them.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin ceramic shells that mimic the ideal appearance of natural dental structure, and they are designed to be cemented over troubled teeth to conceal imperfections like cracks, stains, chips, gaps, stubbiness, and minor misalignments. If they receive excellent care that includes proper hygiene, mindful chewing, and regular dental checkups, they can last up to fifteen years or more before needing replacement. Since the process of placing them requires the removal of some enamel that will not grow back, the treated teeth will need to wear veneers for life for protection against infection and injury.
How Much Enamel Must Be Removed to Place Porcelain Veneers?
The process of placing veneers requires the removal of some dental enamel so the appliances can fit properly and remain flush with the natural shape of your smile. In most cases, the dentist will remove only about half a millimeter of enamel, and this will only be performed after an appropriate anesthetic has been applied to ensure the patient’s comfort. The treated teeth and bite alignment will then be measured and the patient will be fitted with temporary veneers.
When Will the Final Set of Porcelain Veneers Be Placed?
The patient will come back to their dentist’s office about two weeks after their initial treatment. Then, their dentist will remove the temporary veneers and fix the final set in place. After you get used to wearing them, your veneers should feel remarkably like natural dental structure, and you may eventually find yourself forgetting you are wearing them at all. While you may notice a slight difference in texture when you run your tongue along the edges of your teeth, they should look and feel incredibly lifelike.
Porcelain veneers can be an excellent way to achieve a more gorgeous smile. Consulting with your dentist can help you understand how to achieve the teeth of your dreams.
About the Author
Dr. Ronan Freyne earned his dental degree at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey and completed an externship at Monmouth Medical Center. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the Maryland State Dental Association. His office in Chevy Chase offers general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry such as porcelain veneers. To schedule your consultation for veneers or another treatment, contact the office online or dial (301) 986-0700.