Veneers

Dental veneers are among the most conservative restorative options we provide. These thin, custom-made shells of porcelain are bonded to the front surface of your teeth. We utilize porcelain due to its ability to be colour-matched to your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and aesthetically pleasing result. Unlike dental crowns, which encase the entire tooth, veneers require minimal enamel removal, preserving more of your natural tooth structure. Essentially, a veneer provides your tooth with a “new face” rather than replacing it entirely. This minimally invasive nature makes dental veneers a cornerstone of modern cosmetic dentistry.

The veneer placement process typically requires two appointments. During the initial visit, your dentist will prepare the tooth to receive the veneer. In the subsequent appointment, the custom-made veneer will be permanently bonded to your tooth.

• Tooth Preparation: The dental veneer procedure begins with the gentle removal of a small amount of enamel from the front surface of your tooth, usually less than one millimetre. Depending on the extent of enamel removal required, local anesthesia may not be necessary. Since veneers bond more effectively with the outer tooth structure, our dentists aim to remove as little enamel as possible. A specialized rotating instrument, known as a dental bur, is used to carefully reshape the tooth’s surface.
• Dental Impressions: Following tooth preparation, we take a precise impression, or mold, of your teeth. This impression is sent to a dental laboratory, where your custom veneer is crafted to fit your smile perfectly. To ensure an accurate impression, a small retraction cord is used to temporarily move the gums away from the tooth, exposing more of its surface. The gum line will return to its normal position after the impression is complete. The final step involves biting into a tray filled with paste to create a detailed mold of your teeth. Please be patient, as this takes a few minutes to set.
• Laboratory Fabrication: Once the mold is ready, we make any necessary adjustments and send it to the dental lab. It typically takes a couple of weeks to receive your permanent veneer. In the interim, a temporary veneer may be placed to protect the prepared tooth, although this is not always necessary. Temporary veneers are generally used when a significant amount of enamel has been removed, which can increase tooth sensitivity or vulnerability.
• Final Placement: At your final appointment, your custom-made veneer is carefully bonded to your tooth. The dentist may make minor adjustments to ensure the veneer looks and feels natural. We encourage you to share any concerns you may have about the appearance or feel of your smile at this stage, as your satisfaction is our priority. After any final trimming and fitting adjustments, the dentist applies bonding cement to your tooth and attaches the veneer. A special blue light is then used to harden the cement and secure the veneer in place. Following a final check to ensure a snug and comfortable fit, you are ready to enjoy your enhanced smile!