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Veneers
Porcelain laminate
veneers are probably the most esthetic means of creating a more pleasing and
beautiful smile. They require a minimal amount of tooth reduction (
approximately .5 mm ) and are, therefore, a more conservative restoration than a
crown. Porcelain veneers allow us to alter tooth position, shape, size and
color. They are not the only alternative for all esthetic abnormalities but are
truly a remarkable restoration when they are the treatment of choice.

Some facts you
might want to know about Porcelain Veneers
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Since they
require approximately .5mm of tooth reduction, porcelain veneers are NOT
considered a reversible form of treatment.
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Occasionally
the preparation of a Porcelain Laminate Veneer does not necessitate the use
of a local anesthetic. However, for those patients that are particularly
sensitive or anxious, a local anesthetic is advisable.
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The laboratory
time required for the fabrication of a Porcelain Laminate Veneer is
approximately one week. Due to the minimal amount of tooth reduction, it is
usually not necessary to fabricate any type of temporary restoration. Should
a temporary be needed, they can, in most circumstances, be made at the time
of treatment.
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Between your
preparation visit and the insertion visit, you can expect some sensitivity
to hot and cold. This is normal and is due to the removal of a small portion
of the enamel covering of the tooth. This sensitivity should disappear after
the placement of your Porcelain Laminate Veneer.
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Your second
visit, the insertion of your laminate, can be accomplished, once again ,
with or without local anesthetic. This visit is usually longer in length.
The laminates are placed with a light sensitive resin which is hardened by
using a white light.
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Once placed
your laminates are very strong and will resist most of the forces placed
upon them by a normal diet. Porcelain has great crushing strength but poor
tensile strength. Therefore, you should avoid anything that will tend to
twist the laminate. Opening pistachio nuts with your teeth, chewing on bones
or jelly apples is probably not a good idea. As with most things, common
sense should prevail.
Maintenance
of Your New Porcelain Veneers:
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Please
brush and floss as you normally would to prevent oral hygiene problems.
Once placed, Porcelain Laminate Veneers are typically the kindest
restoration to the gum tissues that we currently have in our prosthetic
armamentarium. Do not be afraid that you will damage your laminates by
either flossing or brushing. Any non-abrasive tooth paste is acceptable. A
good home care regimen will insure the esthetic success of your laminate
restorations for years to come.
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Some
sensitivity to hot and cold may be experienced after the placement of your
veneers. This relates to the amount of enamel left on your tooth after
preparation, the proximity of the nerve as well as several other factors.
Some sensitivity is absolutely normal and usually dissipates after one-two
weeks. If this sensitivity should remain or concern you at all, please call
your dentist.
-
As mentioned
before, a normal diet should pose no problem at all. Please avoid anything
that will tend to bend or twist the laminates.
-
If you are
known to be a bruxer or clincher, please let your dentist know. He/she will
fabricate a soft niteguard for you to wear to minimize the stresses placed
upon your teeth while you sleep.
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