subject: What Are Porcelain Veneers? Part 2 [print this page] Preparation Preparation
What is the process of preparing for porcelain veneers? The process of preparing your teeth for porcelain veneers is actually quite straightforward. A little enamel usually needs to be removed from the surface of your teeth, depending on the type of veneer, the position of your teeth, and your dentist's skill level. In many cases, the procedure can be done without the use of local anaesthetic, but this is ultimately up to your dentist. Teeth that have previously had a root canal or teeth that do not need enamel removed can usually have veneers attached without the use of anaesthetic.
When your dentist begins to prepare your teeth for veneers, he or she will use a dental tool much like a grinder to contour and smooth the surface of your tooth. Impressions of your teeth and your bite will be taken so that your veneers can be made. Temporary veneers will be constructed using an acrylic material and will be attached to your teeth with a temporary cement. These temporary veneers will resemble your natural teeth but they are not as finely finished as your permanent porcelain veneers. Temporary veneers will not be shaded as accurately and they may have a rougher feel than porcelain veneers. The reason your dentist will use the temporary veneers is to protect your teeth from sensitivity, but they are temporary. As such, you should take care when biting or chewing food and you'll want to avoid eating gum or sticky candy. Unlike your final porcelain veneers, temporary veneers may also be damaged from biting your nails and may be stained easily by food or beverages with darker pigments.
The Final Application of Veneers
Your permanent porcelain veneers will usually be ready within 7 and 10 business days. Your dentist should inspect these final porcelain veneers for any damage and to ensure that they match the colour of your surrounding teeth. Once you have also approved of your porcelain veneers, your dentist can permanently cement them to your teeth using a strong dental resin.
Caring
Veneers are designed to be a permanent treatment and behave like natural teeth. In most cases, they will hold up to your normal everyday activities, but it is important to remember that they are not actually your natural teeth. As such, it is not recommended to use your teeth to open difficult items, as this may cause your veneers to break or chip. Moreover, while resistant to staining, porcelain veneers can pick up darker pigments; and as they cannot be treated with tooth-whitening gels or toothpastes, you will want to be careful to clean your teeth regularly after meals. Otherwise, your porcelain veneers can be treated like your natural teeth with regular brushing and flossing.
