Dental Procedures

What are veneers?

Veneers are very thin shells that are attached to the front part of teeth. They are often made of porcelain or composite resin. Porcelain veneers are stronger than composite resin veneers and do not change colour or stain. Generally, porcelain veneers take at least two dental visits to apply and composite resin veneers can be completed in just one visit. Porcelain veneers generally last longer than composite resin veneers and have superior aesthetic capabilities.

Who Can Get Veneers?

Not everyone is a good candidate for veneers. Here are some reasons why your dentist may suggest treatments other than veneers:

• If a tooth has decay or is in an area that has periodontal disease (gum disease). These problems must be treated first.
• If a tooth has little enamel left, a veneer will not adhere to it properly.
• If too much of the tooth is missing, a crown may be another option.
• If a person grinds or clenches his or her teeth. This habit is called bruxism and can chip or break porcelain veneers. 

What Else Should I Know About Veneers?

• Just like your natural teeth, your veneered tooth needs to be brushed and flossed daily.
• Once you have veneers, you cannot reverse the treatment because part of your enamel has been removed.
• If a veneer chips or peels off, or if a cavity forms under a veneer, the veneer must be redone.
• Constantly grinding or clenching your teeth may cause your bonding or veneers to chip or break.
• Porcelain veneers and bonded teeth can be chipped if you are not careful when biting or tearing into hard or chewy foods. Do not bite hard objects like ice cubes or fingernails.
• Cosmetic dental treatments like bonding or veneers might not be covered by your dental plan. You may be responsible for these costs yourself.