Dental veneers are wafer-thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored material that cover the front surface of teeth. These shells are bonded to the front of the teeth changing their color, shape, size, or length.
A dental veneer usually requires three visits to the dentist. One tooth or several teeth may simultaneously undergo the veneering process.
First visit: Diagnosis and treatment planning. During this appointment, the dentist will examine your teeth to assess if dental veneers are appropriate for you. It is important to communicate to your dentist the result that you are hoping to achieve with dental veneers.
Second visit: Tooth preparation. Your dentist will remove about 1/2 millimeter of enamel from the tooth surface, which is an amount nearly equal to the thickness of the veneer. Your dentist will make a model or impression of your tooth. This model is sent to a dental laboratory, where the veneer is made.
Third visit: Bonding. Your dentist will place the new veneer on your tooth to examine its fit and color. After the patient and dentist are satisfied with the fit and appearance of the veneer, it is cemented permanently onto the tooth.
