There’s no doubt that porcelain veneers are a popular treatment option in dentistry; most of the time, they look great. But sometimes, I see cases where the veneers could have looked better if more reduction had been made in the right places. In this photo essay, I want to show you how I use precontouring and depth cuts to ensure my dental technician has enough reduction to work his magic.
I’ll also show you my temporary technique, which makes the process of making thin temporaries much simpler. I still believe that veneers are the most esthetic restoration in dentistry, and by following these precontouring and depth cut steps, you can be sure that your patients will be happy with the results.
Veneer Preparation Steps
What do they do to your teeth before veneers?
When it comes to veneers, preparation is key. Here are the steps you need to take to ensure a successful installation:
- Measure the area where you will be installing the veneer. This will help you determine how many veneers you need to purchase.
- Trim the veneer to size using a sharp knife or scissors. Be careful not to cut too close to the edge, as you will need room to glue it in place.
- If the surface you affix the veneer to is not perfectly smooth, use sandpaper or a file to rough it up a bit. This will create a better surface for the adhesive to grip onto.
- Apply a thin layer of adhesive to the surface and place the veneer. Use a rolling pin or another blunt object to apply pressure and help ensure that the veneer sticks securely.
- Allow the adhesive to dry completely before using or handling the veneered surface.
By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your veneer project goes smoothly and that you get the best possible results.
Is veneer preparation painful?
No, veneer preparation should not be painful. However, you may experience some discomfort during the procedure if your teeth are sensitive. Your dentist can provide you with a numbing agent to help alleviate any discomfort you may feel.
What are the risks of veneer preparation?
There are very few risks associated with veneer preparation. In rare cases, people have reported experiencing minor irritation or sensitivity after the procedure. If this occurs, it is usually temporary and will subside within a few days.
Are there any side effects of veneer preparation?
The only potential side effect of veneer preparation is temporary sensitivity or irritation. This is typically mild and will go away on its own within a few days.
Why is it essential to prep teeth for veneers?
Dental veneers can be beautiful and natural looking, but they require adequate tooth reduction for the material to blend in seamlessly with the adjacent teeth. Each type of dental veneer material requires a specific tooth prep and a minimum uniform thickness for material strength and durability. Ceramic veneer restorations require a completely passive fit with no undercuts. Smooth veneer prep edges result in lower stresses on the final restoration. Digital scanners record teeth prepared for veneers that have smooth preparations with increased accuracy, yielding a more precise fit.
By preparing your teeth and gums properly, you can help ensure that the procedure goes smoothly and that you get the best possible results.
Porcelain Veneers Preparation technique
Anterior Ceramic Veneers Preparation technique
How should I prep my teeth for veneers at home?
There are a few things you can do to prep your teeth for veneers:
- Schedule a consultation with your dentist to discuss whether veneers are right for you. During this appointment, your dentist will examine your mouth and teeth to ensure that veneers are your best option.
- Start practicing good oral hygiene habits. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. You want to make sure that your mouth is as healthy as possible before getting veneers.
- Avoid eating hard or crunchy foods. Veneers are delicate and can be damaged if you bite into something hard. Once you have veneers, you should avoid chewing on ice, popcorn kernels, etc.
- Quit smoking. Smoking can stain your veneers and make them look yellow over time. If you are a smoker, it’s best to quit at least a few weeks before getting veneers so that your teeth have time to recover from the effects of smoking.
By following these simple guidelines, you can help ensure that your veneer project goes smoothly and that you get the best possible results.
How long does it take to prepare teeth for veneers?
The length of time it takes to prepare teeth for veneers varies from person to person. In general, the procedure is quick and easy. However, the process may take a bit longer if your teeth are particularly sensitive or if you have any other complicating factors.
