Posts Tagged ‘Smile Makeovers’
What Are Porcelain Laminate Veneers?
Sometimes simple bonding is not enough for the demands in the mouth where cosmetic changes are needed. This is when porcelain laminate veneers may be used. Porcelain veneers (sometimes referred to as laminates) can change an entire smile. Porcelain laminate veneers are quick, painless (which most patients appreciate), and the results are usually quite impressive. They can change color, size, shape and arrangement of the teeth. It is often used in place of orthodontic treatment. The great part about these types of veneers is that they can be done in just two visits.
The technique consists of first shaving a thin layer of outer tooth structure (about the thickness of an eggshell). An impression is then taken of the prepared teeth and is sent to a dental laboratory. In the lab, a ceramist will make very thin porcelain facings consisting of all the changes in shape, size, color and teeth arrangement that are needed to have a great looking smile. At the second visit, the laminates are bonded onto the prepared teeth with a white light gun. The bonding material acts as an adhesive for the laminates. Porcelain laminates are the most popular technique used for dramatic smile makeovers.