Getting dental veneers is one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments, and not without good reason. Porcelain veneers, in particular, can instantly transform a tired smile, boosting aesthetics and confidence. If you’re here because you’re considering a smile makeover, then you’re in luck. In this post, we’ll talk about the process of porcelain veneers.
A veneer’s procedure is not lengthy compared to other treatments like dental implants, but it has some essential steps you need to know. With this in mind, let’s dive in and discuss what you can and should expect.
Veneers procedure – Step-by-step
The consultation
The consultation is the first step in the process of getting porcelain veneers and is an important one. A consultation is where you meet the dentist and get the lowdown on how the veneer’s procedure is done. You’ll also be able to air your questions and concerns while the dentist will take a look and see whether you’re an ideal candidate. They will also take a series of digital x-rays and impressions and create a computerised mock-up to show you the forecasted change. Most cosmetic dentists will spend a great deal of time on this aspect to ensure that the representations are what you envisage and precisely what you want.
Tooth trimming
Once you’re happy to proceed with the veneer’s procedure, you’ll be asked to come back for a separate appointment to prepare the teeth. A small amount of enamel is trimmed off the tooth or teeth to allow any dental veneers to sit flush in the smile line. It’s a short and comfortable procedure carried out under a local anaesthetic.
Tooth preparation is an essential part of the process of porcelain veneers, but it does mean that once it’s done, there’s no going back.
So why is this? Because tooth enamel does not regenerate, it’s an irreversible procedure.
Once you decide on getting dental veneers, you’ll always have to have them.
In cases where your custom porcelain veneers are made in a dental lab, you may be fitted with a set of temporaries while you wait.
In other instances where dental veneers are milled in the dental practice, no temporaries are necessary because you’ll be fitted with your permanent veneers the same day.
A word about temporary porcelain veneers
They will feel bulkier than your permanent ones and appear less translucent, but it gives you a chance to try them out for fit and comfort. Any changes can be made at this point and mirrored on your permanent dental veneers to ensure an exquisite, all-around fit.
Getting your permanent dental veneers
After about two weeks, your porcelain veneers should be ready. So during a third and final appointment, the dentist will fit them. First, they’ll carefully remove any temporary veneers and using an etching gel will roughen up the tooth’s surface. This ensures better contact between tooth and veneer while creating greater adhesion.
Next, your veneers are cemented into position, ensuring a flawless fit within the smile line. A special curing light may also be used to harden up your veneers, allowing you to smile, eat, and chew confidently.
So, that’s the process of porcelain veneers. As you can see, the veneer’s procedure is a straightforward undertaking typically done in just three visits spanning two to three weeks. But what about getting used to your new smile? How easy is it?
Getting used to dental veneers
The good thing about dental veneers is that there’s virtually zero downtime, so aside from clinic days when preparation and fitting are required, you shouldn’t need any additional recovery time. That said, porcelain veneers can take a little getting used to, and they may initially feel a little sensitive. Typically, any sensitivity wears off within a few days; after this point, patients can go ahead and be proud of their newly transformed smile.
Points to remember about getting dental veneers
Dental porcelain is incredibly strong, but like your natural teeth, veneers won’t stand up to being used as ice crushers or bottle-top openers, so an element of care should be afforded. If you look after them, porcelain veneers can last for ten years or more, allowing you to experience years of hassle-free maintenance.
Finally, you might want to get your natural teeth whitened first to get the best from your newly veneered smile. Unfortunately, although stain resistant, restorations like dental veneers will not respond to direct bleaching, so whitening teeth prior to getting porcelain veneers is the way to go.
If you are interested in getting a smile makeover and want to learn more about the process of porcelain veneers, talk to the team at Sydney Laser Dental Care. We use high-quality porcelain veneers made in our trusted partner’s dental lab and will happily run through the procedure with you so you can decide whether they’re right for you.
Moreover, we’re currently running a promotion where you pay just $10,000, $12,000 or $18,000 for 8, 10 or 18 porcelain veneers, respectively. Throw in a free smile consultation, and we think it’s a great offer.
If you’re ready to get your smile back on track, contact us at our Illawong, Sylvania Waters or Pyrmont dental clinics and book a veneers consultation today!
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References:
Cosmopolitan – Dental Veneers – The Price, Pain and Upkeep Explained
https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a13051650/what-are-veneers
Canadian Dental Association – Glazing and Finishing Dental Porcelain
http://cda-adc.ca/JCDA/vol-64/issue-8/580.html
