What are Porcelain Veneers?

Veneers, or cosmetic teeth veneers, are an ultra-thin shell of porcelain or composite resin material that is bonded to the front of a tooth. These are ideal for improving the tooth’s esthetic appearance and may also be used to protect damage to the tooth’s surface. Porcelain may be fabricated in a laboratory in Palm Harbor and bonded to the tooth or a composite veneer may be directly built up in the mouth.

The procedure begins by visiting our Palm Harbor office to determine if veneers are the best option for you, or if there are alternative solutions available. At this time, it is critical to communicate the cosmetic dentistry improvements you would like made to your teeth. At this appointment, we will analyze your smile and create a custom treatment plan specifically for you.

At your next appointment, we will begin to prepare your teeth. The teeth will be lightly buffed to remove a thin layer. You may receive local anesthesia if desired. Composite resin veneers are generally completed in one appointment. Your cosmetic dentist, will carefully bond and sculpt the composite material to your teeth.

For porcelain teeth veneers, our team of dentists uses the prestigious da Vinci veneers – seen on the television shows “Extreme Makeover” and “The Swan.” Created by da Vinci Dental Studios in West Hills, California, da Vinci veneers provide the best in cosmetic dentistry and can literally change your entire smile in just a few visits. We will take a mold of your teeth and send it to the lab for fabrication. If desired, we can create temporary veneers for you to wear until your permanent ones are ready from the dental lab.

Bonding Porcelain Veneers

You will return to our Palm Harbor office once your porcelain veneers have been sculpted in the laboratory. Our team of doctors will remove your temporary veneers, if necessary, and lightly place your new, permanent veneers on your teeth to ensure they fit and the color matches perfectly. When you look at the veneers on your teeth, pay particular attention to the color. If necessary, your cosmetic dentist can adjust the shade of your veneers with the shade of cement used to bond them to the tooth. Once you approve your new porcelain veneers, we will bond them to your teeth. Your cosmetic dentist will cleanse the tooth with special chemicals, apply the veneer with light-sensitive cement, and harden the bond with a light beam.

Because they are individually sculpted for you in the laboratory, it is nearly impossible to notice a difference between a veneer and a natural tooth. Contact us today to find out how our veneer specialists in Palm Harbor can enhance your existing smile.