What Can Veneers Correct?
Veneers can be used to correct many of the same issues as cosmetic bonding, including:
- Broken or chipped teeth
- Discoloured or stained teeth
- Misshapen or uneven teeth
- Widely spaced teeth
They can also be placed over slightly crooked or overlapping teeth to create the appearance of straighter teeth, which normally takes a year or more with braces. Veneers are also meant to last longer than cosmetic bonding. If your main goal is to straighten teeth, ask about Invisalign as an alternative.
How Are Veneers Placed?
Veneer treatment usually takes more than one visit.
- Consultation and planning: Your dentist listens to your goals, examines your teeth and discusses the look you want. Our Digital Smile Design planning can help you preview a result.
- Preparing the teeth: Your dentist gently buffs away a small portion of the enamel on the teeth being treated, to create room for the porcelain veneers.
- Impression: An impression of your teeth is taken and sent to a dental lab, where a skilled technician creates your veneers to the size, colour and shape you have chosen.
- Temporary veneers: You may be given temporary veneers to wear while the permanent ones are made.
- Bonding: When the veneers return from the lab, your dentist affixes them to your teeth with a strong bonding material.
Veneers or Bonding?
Both treatments can improve the look of a tooth. Bonding uses tooth-coloured resin applied directly to the tooth, often in a single visit, while veneers are made in a lab from porcelain. Veneers are meant to last longer than bonding. Your dentist can help you weigh the options. See our page on cosmetic bonding.
Before Your Visit
- Think about what you would like to change about your smile. Photos of smiles you like can help.
- Bring a list of medications, allergies and health conditions.
- Tell us if you grind or clench your teeth, as this can affect your treatment.
- Let us know if you feel anxious so we can discuss laughing gas and sedation options.
- Ask any questions about the steps, timing and cost.
After Your Treatment
- Your mouth may be numb for a few hours. Avoid chewing until the numbness wears off.
- Teeth may be a little sensitive to hot and cold at first.
- If you have temporary veneers, avoid sticky or hard foods and take care when brushing.
- Brush twice a day and floss daily, and keep up with regular checkups.
- If you grind your teeth, ask about a night guard to protect your veneers.
- Call us if a veneer feels loose or chipped, your bite feels uneven, or you have swelling, fever, lasting pain or bleeding.
Caring for Your Veneers
- Brush twice a day with a soft toothbrush and floss daily.
- Avoid biting hard objects such as ice, pens or fingernails.
- Do not use your teeth to open packages.
- Wear a night guard if you grind or clench your teeth.
- Keep up with regular checkups and professional cleanings.
Costs, Insurance and Payment
The cost of veneers depends on the number of teeth and your treatment plan. We provide a free estimate and follow the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. Cosmetic treatments are often not covered by insurance, and we will explain what to expect before you begin. Instant financing with easy monthly payment plans is available.
Why Choose Heritage Valley Dental for Veneers?
- Clear planning and every step explained
- Free estimates and second opinions
- Easy financing and payment plans
- Gentle care with laughing gas and sedation options
- Open seven days a week in South Edmonton
