How to Get Porcelain Veneers

Teeth that are discolored, misaligned or simply broken can cause low self-esteem in an individual. This is often due to embarrassment they may feel when smiling or conversing with other individuals who may judge them on the appearance of their teeth. While traditionally the only way to fix any of these problems was to have dentures, advancements in dental care have made it possible to achieve a brighter, better smile with less cost and pain. This is done through applying porcelain veneers. Read on to learn how to get porcelain veneers.

Instructions

• 1

  To get porcelain veneers the first thing you need to do is select a dentist. Your general dentist may have the skills and training necessary to perform this procedure if they have training or specialization in cosmetic dentistry. However, if they don't seek out a dentist that specializes in cosmetic procedures as they will be fully trained and knowledgeable about porcelain veneers.

• 2

  Consulting with your dentist is important, and generally this is considered the first procedure. If you are using your regular dentist for the procedure this may not require an extra appointment, since you can consult with him or her during a traditional cleaning or hygiene appointment. However, if you do see a specialist, this initial appointment will allow you to discuss what you want as well as how much it will cost and the actual procedure with the dentist you have chosen.

• 3

  After the consultation you will set up another appointment, and this time preparations for the porcelain veneers will begin. Since veneers are bonded to the front of your teeth, your dentist will remove part of the enamel of your tooth. This will help to make a stronger bond once the permanent veneers are put in place. Once enough enamel has been removed the dentist will take an impression or mold of your teeth. This will be sent to the lab so that they can create custom-made porcelain veneers that fit perfectly to your natural teeth. Your dentist may make temporary veneers and apply them to your teeth before you leave the office in order to protect the exposed teeth. While this is not necessary, your teeth may appear unsightly to someone at a close distance, and they are more susceptible to staining during this time as well.

• 4

  Caring for your teeth is extremely important when you are in between appointments waiting for your permanent veneers. Teeth are more likely to become stained during this time, especially if you don't have temporary veneers in place. It is important that you always brush after each meal as well as floss. Your gums may bleed or be extremely sensitive. If this occurs you should speak to your dentist since this can delay application of the veneers.

• 5

  For the follow-up appointment, the dentist will try the porcelain veneers in your mouth before he or she actually bonds them in place. This ensures that they are an exact fit, and allows you to make sure they are exactly right for your mouth and your smile. If you are not satisfied it is important that you speak up during this stage since once put in place the veneers are very difficult to remove. If you are happy with the veneers, the dentist will go ahead and bond them to your teeth.

• 6

  Finally it is important that you take proper care of your porcelain veneers after you have them permanently in place. While they are highly stain resistant, it is still important to brush and floss since cavities and tooth decay can occur around the edges of the veneers. In addition, proper oral healthcare will help to extend the overall lifetime of your veneers, thus needing to replace them less frequently.