Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Dental Veneers Dentist Plattsburgh NY

Dental Veneers

Above article from dentalhealthsite.com

Dental Veneers (also referred to as porcelain veneers or porcelain laminates) are thin tooth colored shells that are custom made for individual patients and placed on the frontal surface of the teeth to improve its appearance.

They are made from porcelain or resin composites but porcelain has superior stain resisting properties. However, the type of veneer appropriate for an individual can be correctly determined only by a dentist.

What are dental veneers used for?

Dental Veneers (or Porcelain Veneers) are used in a variety of cases such as

-Individual discolored teeth
-Worn, chipped or fractured teeth.
-Uneven and irregularly shaped teeth.
-Widely spaced teeth
-What is the procedure in placement of a dental veneer?

Placement of a dental veneer can only be performed by a qualified Dentist which involves basic 4 steps.

-Diagnosis and Treatment planning
-Preparation
-Etching
-Placement and Bonding


1. Diagnosis and Treatment planning: This involves the Dentist determining whether it is appropriate for you to get a Dental Veneer and discuss its limitations with you. He will also take an impression of your oral cavity.

2. Preparation: This involves scraping the outer layer of the tooth up to the thickness of veneer that is to be placed. The dentist may use a Local Anesthetic if required. A model of the patients tooth is made which is sent to the laboratory. Repeated color adjustments might be required to achieve a suitable color. A dental veneer is constructed on this model which can take a few weeks.

3. Etching: The next time the patient is called at the clinic is for the actual veneer placement. The dentist first places the veneer against the tooth and checks for its correct position. Now the dentist cleans and polishes the tooth surface on which the veneer is to be placed. The dentist then uses an acid to etch your teeth i.e it creates a roughened tooth surface which improves its bonding to the veneer.

4. Placement: The Veneer will be placed on the tooth surface with a special tooth colored material called composite used for attachment. After the position has been determined, a special light is used which improves and quickens the bonding/hardening process. A few final adjustments may be necessary and a couple further visits are required by the patient to ensure a normal response of the gums towards the veneer.


Champlain Smiles Dental Office
Airport Plaza • 762 Route 3
Plattsburgh, NY 12901
518.324.CARE