Porcelain Veneer FAQ's - Dr. Patenaude

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Porcelain Veneer FAQ's

One of the most popular procedures for providing an attractive smile are porcelain veneers. The following are FAQ's (Frequently Asked Questions) regarding porcelain veneers. Simply click on the question of interest to you and the answer will be presented to you.

You will find additional information regarding porcelain veneers and other cosmetic procedures at our Porcelain Veneer Page, Cosmetic Dentistry Section, Views on Cosmetic Dentistry page, and our PDF Article Search page.

What are Porcelain Veneers?
Why are Porcelain Veneers so popular today?
How long do Porcelain Veneers last?
How is it that they look so life-like?
Can Porcelain Veneers close spaces in teeth?
Can Porcelain Veneers brighten dark and stained teeth?
Will Porcelain Veneers make me look younger?
Can Porcelain Veneers make small teeth look larger?
How long does it take?
Can Porcelain Veneers be done in place of orthodontics?
How is Smile Design used with Porcelain Veneers?
How strong are they?
Will I have to change my eating habits after I get my Porcelain Veneers?
How do I know if Porcelain Veneers are for me?

What are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain Veneers are ultra thin porcelain "shells" that are permanently bonded onto the front surface of involved teeth. They are custom made from tooth coloured dental porcelain. They can dramatically change a person's smile, appearance and self-confidence by creating a "Hollywood Smile"!

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Why are Porcelain Veneers so popular today?
There are a lot of reasons for the popularity of porcelain veneers today. They are more conservative that other treatments and in many cases involve minimal adjustments to a patient's teeth. They can be completed in as little as 2 visits to the office and in less than 2 weeks time. They can cost less than other treatments as well. And yes, they look terrific too!
It is the treatment of choice for hundreds of movie stars and created the term "Hollywood Smile". These and other reasons have contributed to the popularity of Porcelain Veneers.

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How long do Porcelain Veneers last?
Porcelain Veneers bonded in the 1980's and in the 1990's look just as beautiful now as the day that they were bonded in place. Routine hygiene will ensure that veneers will look wonderful for years.

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How is it that they look so life-like?
Veneers are made from a special dental porcelain that reflects light from within, just like a natural tooth. As transluscent as the porcelain is, it can still block any underlying stained teeth. Porcelain veneers easily correct many dental problems.

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Can Porcelain Veneers close spaces in teeth?
Porcelain Veneers beautifully and naturally close spaces (diastemas) in one tooth or an entire smile.

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Can Porcelain Veneers brighten dark and stained teeth?
Yes. The darkest tooth stains can easily be blocked with porcelain veneers. Patients can even choose the white shade that they want their smile to be. In this way dark and older looking smiles can be completely rejuvenated.

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Will Porcelain Veneers make me look younger?
Many people get Porcelain Veneers and immediately look 10 years (or more) younger. Not only that but they look healthier and more vital!

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Can Porcelain Veneers make small teeth look larger?
Yes. Often veneers are used when necessary to make teeth longer and/or wider. In this way, small or "diminutive" teeth can be changed into a beautiful broad smile.

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How long does it take?
The teeth to be veneered may require adjustment which takes place during the first appointment. A week or so later, your custom-made porcelain veneers are bonded into place. The total procedure takes 1 to 2 weeks.

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Can Porcelain Veneers be done in place of orthodontics?
In many cases Porcelain Veneers can accomplish in weeks what could take years through orthodontic procedures. Call us at 519-68-1050 for a free consultation.

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How is Smile Design used with Porcelain Veneers?
Patients can view a portfolio of smile types and styles, and we can help a patient to choose the most natural smile for them. In some cases, a patient may choose to see a computer aided design of their new smile, even before treatment has begun. This is called Cosmetic Dental Imaging

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How strong are they?
Porcelain Veneers are chemically and mechanically bonded into place with special materials and tooth coloured cements. The inner surface of each veneer is etched to provide a very strong bond that usually exceeds 2,000 p.s.i. Porcelain Veneers can be stronger than normal teeth.

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Will I have to change my eating habits after I get my Porcelain Veneers?
No. Patients with veneers do not have to change normal eating habits, although patients should avoid very hard foods, and avoid destructive habits like biting their nails.

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How do I know if Porcelain Veneers are for me?
Simply Contact Us or call our office at 519-688-1050 to set up an appointment for your free consultation. At that time we will answer all your questions and do a dental assessment.

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