How Do Veneers Work?
What are They?
The Academy of General Dentistry (agd.org) defines veneers as thin pieces of porcelain, or resin, which are permanently affixed to the front of the teeth. The veneers function as individual shells that when adhered to the surface of the teeth, create instant perfection. Veneers can be attached to each and every individual tooth, only a few, or just one that has a cosmetic flaw.
Minimal Pain, but Much Preparation
The preparation process to apply veneers is done in several visits. A veneer is approximately one half of a millimeter in thickness, so it will be necessary for your dentist to shave precisely that amount of enamel from the front of your teeth. There is minimal pain involved, but a local anesthetic can be administered to relieve the discomfort. Impressions are them made which will require you to bite down into a bite tray full of gunk, which is actually a wax that will harden and be used as a guide to shape your new veneers.
The Attachment Process
Once your new veneers are back from the lab, which should take approximately two weeks, the magic begins. Medicinenet.com explains that the bonding process is completed with lightweight cement that responds by hardening when struck with a special light beam. When the veneers are set in place, your dentist will ask to see you for a follow up visit in approximately one week to make sure that they are adhering properly.
Veneers are not Indestructible
Proper care must be taken to ensure that your veneers endure. Therefore, teeth grinding, ice chewing, nail biting, and any other poor habits that may cause the veneers to chip off are not advised. Keep in mind, veneers are not repairable. If one cracks, a new one will have to be constructed at the lab.
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