Porcelain Veneers

Veneers are very thin pieces of durable, tooth shaped porcelain that are custom made (for shape and color) by a professional dental laboratory.  They are bonded onto the front of teeth to create a beautiful and attractive smile.

 

Veneers can completely reshape your teeth and smile.  They can often be alternatives to crowns and the ideal solution in treating many dental conditions.

As with most dental restorations, veneers are not permanent and may someday need replacement.  They are very durable and will last many years, giving you a beautiful long lasting smile.

Reasons for porcelain veneers

 

Veneers offer the advantage of cosmetically improving your dental condition, while also conserving a great deal of the healthy, existing structure of your teeth. As a result,  Dr. Herbert Birnbaum may recommend veneers as an alternative to crowns when moderate treatment is more appropriate to achieve desired results. 

In particular, porcelain has unique properties that make it ideal for use as veneers. Porcelain can endure normal dental function, even when thin pieces are used.  Additionally, a variety of genuine shades and shapes can be reproduced with porcelain veneers. At our , Newton Centre dental office, we have noticed that a number of common defects to our patients’ smiles can be corrected with porcelain veneers, ultimately improving the entire smile. 

  • Cosmetically, to create a uniform, white, beautiful smile.

  • Crooked teeth.

  • Misshapen teeth.

  • Severely discolored or stained teeth.

  • Teeth that are too small or large.

  • Unwanted or uneven spaces.

  • Worn or chipped teeth.

What does getting porcelain veneers involve?

 

In keeping with Herbert Birnbaum, DMD's goal to preserve the oral health of our patients, the process of getting porcelain veneers is uncomplicated and does not significantly impact underlying dental health and composition. To accommodate for the additional thickness of a veneer, your teeth will be moderately prepared prior to placement. An impression, or mold, of your teeth is also taken so that your veneers are fabricated to the specific dimensions of your smile. At this time, Dr. Herbert Birnbaum will work with you to decide on the right color for your veneers.

Getting veneers usually requires two visits to complete the process, with little or no anesthesia required during the procedure.  The teeth are prepared by lightly buffing and shaping the surface to allow for the thickness of the veneer.  A mold or impression of the teeth is taken and a shade (color) will then be chosen by you and the dentist.

On the second visit the teeth will be cleansed with special liquids to achieve a durable bond.  Bonding cement is then placed between the tooth and veneer and a special light beam is used to harden and set the bond.

After the procedure, you will receive care instructions, including recommendations for your daily brushing and flossing routine. Regular follow-up visits with Dr. Herbert Birnbaum are also recommended to enhance the longevity of your porcelain veneers. At these visits to our Newton Centre dental practice, your restorations can be assessed for replacement due to normal wear.