• Teeth discoloured from medication or age
• Front teeth that are worn or chipped
• Gaps and other spaces between teeth
• Crooked teeth

Veneers may require 2 or 3 office visits to complete the process. Your dentist first examines your teeth and then discusses what kind of veneers will be suitable for you. Your teeth are then prepared for veneers and the veneers are bonded to your teeth.

1. 1. Preparing your teeth – Your teeth may be lightly filed. A mold of your teeth is taken and sent to a lab to create your veneers. To protect your teeth between visits, your dentist may apply temporary veneers. If you don’t get temporary veneers, make sure to avoid cold foods and drinks as your teeth may be more sensitive than usual.

1. 1. Between visits – The dentist will likely tell you to brush your teeth gently, avoid foods that are too cold, and avoid eating hard food that may loosen your temporary veneers (if you have them).

1. 1. Bonding of the veneers – Before the veneers are bonded to your teeth, your dentist will fit the veneers and check the colour. Slight changes in veneer colour can be made by changing the colour of the cement. The surface of your teeth are then cleansed in preparation for bonding. The veneers are bonded to your teeth with a special cement that is hardened with a high-intensity light. Afterward, any excess cement is removed and the process is complete.

If you care for your veneers well, they may last for years – the tips below may help.

When Brushing

• Use a soft toothbrush and brush gently.
• Avoid harsh toothpastes which can damage the veneers.
• Clean carefully around your gumline.

When Flossing

• At least once per day, floss between each tooth to remove plaque.
• Start flossing on one side of your mouth and move carefully through to the other.

When Eating

• Avoid foods and drinks that could stain your veneers such as red wine, tea, coffee, and berries.
• Be careful when eating hard foods as they can damage veneers.

Avoid Using Tobacco

• Quit if you currently smoke.
• Avoid chewing tobacco – any type of tobacco use can stain certain veneers.

Call your dentist if your veneers:

• Become uncomfortable
• Discolour or chip
• Loosen

FAQs

How do veneers work?
Crafted from solid dental porcelain, veneers cover your front teeth to remove flaws that hinder your smile. Traditional porcelain veneers are customized to fit the size, shape, and colour of your teeth so that you achieve a gorgeous appearance and natural-looking restorations.

What do porcelain veneers cost?
We can’t give you an estimate on the price because each set of veneers is specifically designed for that individual patient. During your consultation appointment, the dentist will discuss your visions, evaluate your mouth, and create a complete plan for updating your smile. At that time, we will review costs and payment options.

Can I remove the veneers at a later date?
If you choose custom veneers, the restorations are permanent because your doctor will remove a thin layer of enamel to prepare your teeth for the porcelain veneers. Little or no-prep options like Lumineers do allow patients the flexibility of returning to their original smiles. However, Lumineers don’t work in all cases, so you will need a consultation and exam to determine the best option for your smile.

Why can’t I just whiten my teeth instead?
In some cases, professional teeth whitening can brighten your smile and revive your appearance. When you have gaps, permanent stains, or chips, bleaching your teeth won’t address the issues. Porcelain veneers literally cover the teeth and create a straight, attractive smile.

Does it take a long time to get veneers?
Most of the time, patients complete the whole process in four to six weeks. During this time, you will have an initial exam, take impressions for the veneers, and return for final placement.