Dental veneers are wafer-thin shells of porcelain that are intended to fit directly over the front of the teeth to improve their appearance. Custom fit to your teeth, they are manufactured to make your smile look its best once they are bonded to your teeth. When you opt for dental veneers, you may need several dental visits in order to determine if you are an appropriate candidate and to have any required preparatory work done. You will also need to go back to your dentist's office in order to have your new porcelain dental veneers fitted and bonded to your teeth for your appealing new smile.

The first appointment involves a thorough dental exam to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy enough for the placement of porcelain veneers. Your dentist will also discuss your treatment plan, as well as the many advantages associated with porcelain veneers. Unlike your own natural teeth, porcelain veneers are highly stain resistant and will not change color over time, even if you frequently enjoy coffee, tea or wine. Because they are made of translucent porcelain, though, they are extremely natural looking and reflect light just like your own teeth. They are considerably durable and can last between 10 and 20 years.

One of the most popular facets of porcelain veneers is that they can promptly perfect teeth, even those with severe discolorations or imperfections. Teeth that are cracked, chipped, broken or even misaligned can become white, smooth and even within just a few dental appointments, thanks to the application of porcelain veneers.

Once your treatment plan has been determined, your dentist will prepare your teeth for the placement of your veneers. This involves the removal of dental enamel in order to make space for the layer of porcelain. More or less enamel may need to be removed, based on the type of porcelain veneers you are having placed and your individual treatment plan. You will have a dental mold or impressions made so that the dental laboratory can make your new veneers. Your dentist may then place temporary veneers to protect your teeth in the meantime.

Your new porcelain veneers will be implanted at your final appointment. Your dentist will first check them for fit and color and then bond them securely to your teeth, trimming them to fit as necessary. You can maintain your new veneers just as you do your own natural teeth, brushing and flossing carefully every day. Visit your dentist every six months or as recommended in order to maintain good dental health and diagnose early signs of dental disease. If a dental veneer falls off or breaks, call your dentist to have it replaced as soon as possible.

North Hollywood cosmetic dentist, Poneh Ghasri DDS uses porcelain dental veneers, Lumineers and various other cosmetic dental treatments to enhance the appearance of the teeth.