Porcelain Veneers: How long will the process take?

Seen as a fabulous solution for many cosmetic dental maladies, porcelain veneers involve a process that usually takes a couple of weeks and two or three visits with your cosmetic dentist. The first visit consists of a discussion explaining the actual procedure, providing the patient with a detailed treatment plan that outlines the number of teeth to be treated, steps involved, needed care following treatment, and the rewards you will receive from your investment.

Getting Started with Porcelain Veneers 

Following your consultation visit, your next appointment will involve the preparatory steps needed for the lab to fabricate your veneers. Whether treatment involves one or multiple teeth, the process is the same for each tooth:

A thin amount of enamel is removed from the front of the tooth about the thickness of the veneer itself. This is done so that once the veneer is cemented in place, it will allow for a symmetrical appearance with untreated teeth.

Impressions are taken for the lab to make the thin shells that will ultimately be cemented to the front of your teeth correcting any number of cosmetic issues such as deep, intrinsic stain; chipped enamel; uneven dentition; unwanted gaps between teeth; or misaligned teeth.

Your dentist may apply a temporary bond to treated teeth to help alleviate any sensitivity concerns or for aesthetics as veneers won’t be ready for a couple of weeks.

The Final Steps 

Your final visit involves bonding the veneers in place. Your cosmetic dentist will try on veneers for fit and appearance. Small adjustments can be made at this time. The surface of the tooth is roughed up and an acid etch is applied to facilitate a good bond. Once cemented in place, a curing light or laser is used to expedite drying.

Porcelain veneers are a permanent treatment option; good care is important to promote their longevity. Take care not to bite into hard or crunchy foods; cut them into pieces for consumption. Avoid sticky foods to prevent accidental dislodging of your veneers. Do not bite your nails, chew ice, or use teeth to open packages.

Otherwise, normal care of porcelain veneers involves daily brushing and flossing coupled with visits to the dentist to have teeth cleaned and examined every six months or as recommended.