Porcelain veneers

Porcelain veneers are a popular cosmetic dental treatment used to improve the appearance of teeth that are discolored, stained, misaligned, chipped, or have other aesthetic issues. The procedure for getting porcelain veneers typically involves several steps:

  1. Consultation and Evaluation:

    • Schedule an initial consultation with Dr Leila Haywood or Dr Rachel Chamberlain.

    • Discuss your goals and expectations for the veneers.

    • Your dentist will examine your teeth and oral health to determine if veneers are a suitable option for you. They may take X-rays or impressions of your teeth.

  2. Treatment Planning:

    • If you're a good candidate for veneers, your dentist will work with you to create a treatment plan.

    • You'll discuss the desired shape, size, color, and overall appearance of your veneers.

    • Your dentist may show you before-and-after photos or digital simulations to give you an idea of the expected results.

  3. Tooth Preparation:

    • During this stage, a small amount of enamel is removed from the front surface of the teeth that will receive veneers. This is typically about 0.5mm of enamel, which is roughly the thickness of the veneer.

    • Your dentist may administer a local anesthetic to ensure you're comfortable during this process.

    • Impressions or digital scans of your prepared teeth are taken to create custom veneers that fit your teeth precisely.

  4. Temporary Veneers:

    • While your permanent veneers are being custom-made in a dental laboratory (which can take a few weeks), temporary veneers may be placed to protect your prepared teeth and maintain aesthetics.

  5. Veneer Fabrication:

    • Skilled dental technicians in a laboratory create your custom porcelain veneers based on the impressions or digital scans.

    • Your dentist will work closely with the lab to ensure the veneers meet your desired specifications regarding color, shape, and size.

  6. Veneer Placement:

    • Once your custom veneers are ready, you'll return to the dental office for their placement.

    • Your dentist will first remove the temporary veneers if they were placed.

    • The permanent veneers are carefully checked for fit, color, and appearance.

    • Your dentist will then use a special adhesive to bond the veneers to your teeth.

  7. Finishing Touches:

    • After the veneers are bonded in place, your dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure they feel comfortable and look natural.

    • The veneers may be polished to achieve the desired shine.

  8. Post-Procedure Instructions:

    • Your dentist will provide you with post-procedure care instructions, including recommendations for maintaining your veneers and oral hygiene.

    • Regular follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor the condition of your veneers.

Porcelain veneers are known for their durability and natural appearance. They can provide a long-lasting solution for improving the aesthetics of your smile, but it's crucial to maintain good oral hygiene practices and attend regular dental check-ups to ensure their longevity.