Porcelain Veneers

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Porcelain laminate veneers, also known as porcelain laminates, are ultra-thin shells of ceramic material, which fit over the front surfaces of the teeth. The veneers have the ability to completely mask unattractive tooth features while letting light through to appear entirely real. Like acrylic fingernails, they are affixed with an adhesive (known as bonding) to the front surfaces of teeth.

This procedure can be performed without anesthesia or anesthesia could be required. This depends on the situation of your teeth. Porcelain veneers can mask discolorations, brighten teeth, and improve a smile. Highly resistant to permanent staining from coffee, tea, or even cigarette smoking, the wafer-thin porcelain veneers can achieve a tenacious bond to the tooth, resulting in a pleasing, natural result.

Why choose a porcelain veneer?
Porcelain veneers are an excellent alternative to crowns in many cosmetic situations. They provide a much more conservative approach to changing a tooth's color, size, or shape. Patients with gaps between their front teeth or teeth that are chipped or worn may consider porcelain veneers. Generally, veneers will last for many years.

What happens during the procedure?
Patients usually need two or three appointments for the entire procedure. Dr. Mazza will spend time with you planning your treatment, discussing your expectations, and reviewing the procedure. The next step is preparing the teeth for the veneer. The majority of patients could have veneers without any gross tooth reduction or anesthesia. If tooth preparation is needed, the teeth are lightly buffed to allow for the small added thickness of the veneer. Usually, about a half a millimeter of the tooth is removed, which may require a local anesthetic. A mold is then taken of the teeth, which is sent to the lab for veneer fabrication. This usually takes two weeks. If the teeth are too unsightly, a temporary veneer can be placed, at an additional cost.

At the next appointment, the veneers are attached to the teeth in a process known as bonding. First, Dr. Mazza places the veneers on the teeth to check their fit and get a sense of the shade or color. While the veneers are resting on your teeth, view the esthetic results, and pay particular attention to the color. At this point, the color of the veneers can still be adjusted with the shade of the cement to be used. The color cannot be altered after veneers are cemented.

To apply the veneer, the tooth is cleansed, and by utilization of specific chemicals, veneers are bonded. To maintain the veneer, follow Dr. Mazza's instructions and brush and floss regularly. You will enjoy your new smile!

Please visit our Photo Gallery  for before and after photos.

Make an appointment today with Bethesda's top porcelain veneer specialist.

Crooked teeth with discoloration and chips

After Invisalign and Porcelain Laminate Veneers

Crooked teeth with stains and chips

After Invisalign and Porcelain Laminate Veneers

Stained teeth and fillings

After Porcelain Laminate Veneers

Gaps Between Teeth

After Invisalign and Veneers

Old Veneers on two front teeth

New Porcelain Veneers on two front teeth