Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain laminate veneers are probably the most esthetic means of creating
a more pleasing and beautiful smile. They require a minimal amount
of tooth reduction ( approximately .5 mm ) and are, therefore,
a more conservative restoration than a crown. Porcelain veneers
allow us to alter tooth position, shape, size and color. They
are not the only alternative for all esthetic abnormalities but
are truly a remarkable restoration when they are the treatment
of choice.
Some facts you might want to know about Porcelain Veneers
- Since they require approximately .5mm of tooth reduction,
porcelain veneers are NOT considered a reversible form of treatment.
- Occasionally the preparation of a Porcelain Laminate Veneer
does not necessitate the use of a local anesthetic. However, for
those patients that are particularly sensitive or anxious, a local
anesthetic is advisable.
- The laboratory time required for the fabrication of a Porcelain
Laminate Veneer is approximately one week. Due to the minimal
amount of tooth reduction, it is usually not necessary to fabricate
any type of temporary restoration. Should a temporary be needed,
they can, in most circumstances, be made at the time of treatment.
- Between your preparation visit and the insertion visit, you
can expect some sensitivity to hot and cold. This is normal and
is due to the removal of a small portion of the enamel covering
of the tooth. This sensitivity should disappear after the placement
of your Porcelain Laminate Veneer.
- Your second visit, the insertion of your laminate, can be
accomplished, once again , with or without local anesthetic. This
visit is usually longer in length. The laminates are placed with
a light sensitive resin which is hardened by using a white light.
- Once placed your laminates are very strong and will resist
most of the forces placed upon them by a normal diet. Porcelain
has great crushing strength but poor tensile strength. Therefore,
you should avoid anything that will tend to twist the laminate.
Opening pistachio nuts with your teeth, chewing on bones or jelly
apples is probably not a good idea. As with most things, common
sense should prevail.
Maintenance of Your New Porcelain Veneers :
The maintenance of your Porcelain Laminate Veneer is relatively
simple. A few suggestions, however, are in order:
- Please brush and floss as you normally would to prevent oral
hygiene problems. Once placed, Porcelain Laminate Veneers
are typically the kindest restoration to the gum tissues that
we currently have in our prosthetic armamentarium. Do not be afraid
that you will damage your laminates by either flossing or brushing.
Any non-abrasive tooth paste is acceptable. A good home care regimen
will insure the esthetic success of your laminate restorations
for years to come.
- Some sensitivity to hot and cold may be experienced after
the placement of your veneers. This relates to the amount of
enamel left on your tooth after preparation, the proximity of
the nerve as well as several other factors. Some sensitivity is
absolutely normal and usually dissipates after one-two weeks.
If this sensitivity should remain or concern you at all, please call your dentist.
- As mentioned before, a normal diet should pose no problem
at all. Please avoid anything that will tend to bend or twist
the laminates.
- If you are known to be a bruxer or clencher, please let your dentist
know. He/she will fabricate a soft nite guard for you to wear to minimize
the stresses placed upon your teeth while you sleep.
Approximately one week after the placement of your laminates you
will be asked to return to the office for a treatment evaluation.
This visit is extremely important. It gives your dentist the opportunity
to evaluate the placement of the laminates, the tissue response
and to answer any questions you might have regarding your new
smile.
We hope that your Porcelain Laminate Veneers have fulfilled all
of your esthetic goals. With proper home care and scheduled evaluation
visits, they can provide you with a beautiful smile for years
to come.