Veneers

How Does Bonding Work?

Bonding uses composite resins or porcelain/ composite veneers to cover the surface of stained teeth and give a nice, even appearance to broken or misshapen teeth.

There are two basic bonding techniques:

1. Composite bonding

   First, the front of the tooth is slightly reduced to prevent the "new" tooth from being too bulky. Microscopic grooves are then etched into the tooth surface with a mild acid. A composite resin matched to the color of the surrounding teeth is applied to the tooth, contoured into shape, set using a curing light, and finally smoothed and polished.
   

2. Veneer bonding

   A veneer is made to match the color and shape of your tooth. Porcelain veneers are generally stronger, while composite veneers are less expensive. With porcelain veneers, the dentist takes an impression of the tooth and sends it to the dental lab for fabrication of the veneer, usually after the front of the tooth has been reduced. With either method, the tooth is prepared for bonding by roughening the front surface with mild etching solution. The veneer can then be bonded to your tooth using a dental bonding cement
   
   While more expensive, a porcelain veneer offers a better color match to your surrounding teeth and typically lasts for five to ten years.
   

Will My Newly Whitened Teeth Stain?

Any tooth can stain, including the veneers and bonds mentioned above. To help prevent stains from coming back, avoid smoking, coffee, tea, red wine and heavily colored foods. And brush your teeth twice a day with a whitening toothpaste.

Dental veneers are thin shells of porcelain that are bonded to the front of the teeth, providing a natural, attractive look. They can be used to fix chipped, stained, misaligned, worn down, uneven or abnormally spaced teeth.

Types of Dental Veneers

The two most common materials used in dental veneers are composite resin and porcelain. Both types of veneers can be fabricated by a dental technician in a dental laboratory. Dental veneers that are fabricated in a dental laboratory are bonded to the teeth with resin cement. Porcelain material is brittle; however, when it is firmly bonded to the tooth it can become very strong and durable. Composite veneers can also be fabricated by the dentist inside your mouth at a dental office.

How are Dental Veneers Placed?

The dentist would remove a small amount of the tooth surface to permit placement of the veneer. An impression is taken of the tooth and sent to the dental laboratory. The dental veneer is then made to fit the tooth and mouth. The veneer is bonded to the tooth with resin cement.

Cleaning Your Dental Veneers

Dental veneers should be cleaned like your own teeth.Flossing once a day and brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste will help to remove food debris and plaque bacteria. Consult your dental professional about the oral care products they recommend to maintain the longevity of your dental restorations.