How long does it take to have porcelain veneers treatment?

The first step which is taken by an individual who wishes to have porcelain veneers as a method of improving the appearance of his teeth is to consult his dentist and express his desire to try cosmetic dentistry. As is the custom in dental practice, the first appointment with the dentists is pent on discussing the various options of cosmetic dentistry, an in-depth discussion about porcelain veneers and their relative advantages as well as disadvantages. Any dental problem suffered by the patient like tooth decay, bleeding gums or tooth whitening should be mentioned to the dentist at this stage as it would require to be treated before the commencement of the cosmetic dentistry procedure.

Once the treatment is embarked upon, the next phase of treatment entails taking an impression of the teeth which usually takes about two hours. It is also during this phase that the procedure of tooth reduction known as prepping as well as tooth re-shaping is carried out. Prepping involves removal of a layer of enamel from the tooth which is of the same thickness as the porcelain veneers and then the tooth is reshaped by using a rotational cutting device known as a burr.

In the next step the impression of the teeth is taken and sent to the dental laboratory where the porcelain veneers are fabricated and returned back to the dentist within a period of 1-2 weeks. This time period may vary from one dental practice to another and there are cases when the dental practice itself has an in-house lab as well as technicians to carry out the requirements of cosmetic dentistry. After the porcelain veneers arrive, it is the duty of the dentist to first apply them temporarily to judge their appearance, fit, color and comfort level of the patient.

Since the main aim of cosmetic dentistry is to provide aestheticism along with comfort, any major adjustments with regards to shape require the porcelain veneers to be returned back to the lab while the difference in color can be adjusted with the help of a special bonding agent in form of cement. Being a part of cosmetic dentistry, the entire process of applying porcelain veneers takes 2-3 appointments although some cosmetic dentistry surgeons may take a longer period of time.

After the placement of the porcelain veneers, a follow-up appointment is fixed after 1-2 weeks to judge the final appearance of the teeth after the procedure of cosmetic dentistry.

source: perfects smile spa blog

Cosmetic Dentistry

If you look good, you feel good.

REASONS FOR COSMETIC DENTISTRY:

• Discoloured teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Discoloured old white fillings
• Amalgam (“silver”) fillings
• Broken or decayed teeth
• Gum disease (puffy, red, swollen gums with plaque and tartar build-up)
• Staining of teeth (from tea, coffee, and smoking)
• Gum recession, and tooth wear

PORCELAIN VENEERS
Veneers are made of a thin layer of natural shade porcelain. They are bonded to front teeth and help to improve the discoloration and shape of teeth, as well as close small gaps between teeth. This is the ultimate treatment option in cosmetic dentistry.

LASER TEETH WHITENING & “HOME BLEACHING
Using special gels your teeth can be safely whitened in under an hour to give you a brighter and more attractive smile. The use of a custom made tray at home will enhance the whitening effect.

HIGH QUALITY AESTHETIC RESTORATIONS
Using the finest dental materials available, we can restore decayed or broken teeth. We recommend laboratory made porcelain inlays or onlays for large back fillings. Discoloured fillings can be polished or redone to achieve a pleasing and natural colour match.

CLOSING GAPS
Any small gaps between front teeth can be cleverly disguised using white fillings, porcelain veneers or crowns. A larger gap may require denture treatment (removable) or bridges and implants (fixed).

LASER GUM CONTOURING
Our state-of-the-art dental laser machine can be used to subtly change gum contours for a more even smile.

COSMETIC RECONTOURING
Sometimes simple and minor reshaping of front teeth can make a quick and attractive improvement to your smile.

PERIODONTAL (GUM THERAPY) SESSIONS WITH A HYGIENIST
A thorough scale and polish alone can make a fantastic difference to your smile!

Please feel free to ask the dentist, hygienist or practice staff about further advice on any cosmetic related dental treatment.
Cosmetic dentistry will improve your confidence and enhance your smile, image and self-esteem!
source: http://www.perfectsmilespa.co.uk/blog/post/Cosmetic-Dentistry.aspx