What Are Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers are used on teeth to improve their appearance. A veneer is a thin layer that is applied on the exterior of the tooth and may be made of resins, plastic or porcelain. The porcelain veneers are more resistant and durable and are more recommended.

Understanding Porcelain Veneers

A veneer is a thin layer of material used on the exterior of one or several teeth. The veneer may have only an esthetic role to improve the appearance of stained or crooked teeth, but may also have a protective role. The veneers may also be recommended if the patient has large spaces between the teeth.

The porcelain veneers are made in a dental technician’s office and typically, there will be a need for two appointments to get the veneers. During the first appointment, the mold is made after the shape of the teeth. The mold will be sent to a technician and he will prepare the porcelain veneer. During the second dental appointment, the veneers will be applied using a special glue that will hold the veneers in place.

The porcelain veneers are more resistant than the composite or plastic veneers, but will not be permanent. The veneers may be fractured or chipped and will need to be replaced periodically. Veneers have been created as an alternative to dental crowns. The main difference between veneers and crowns is the fact that a crown covers the entire tooth, while the veneer is typically placed only on the front side of the tooth.

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