Veneers

Veneers are a minimally invasive dental procedure in which a covering is placed over the outside (visible area) of the tooth. The procedure can be direct or indirect.

The direct technique usually involves placing composite resin (white filling material) on the outside of the tooth. This method is usually referred to as bonding.

The indirect technique usually involves two appointments because the veneers will be fabricated at a dental laboratory. At the first appointment the teeth are prepared, digital scan is taken, and the teeth are given a temporary covering. In about two weeks the veneers are back from the laboratory, the temporary coverings are removed and the veneers are bonded to the teeth. The laboratory fabricated veneers are usually made using porcelain or pressed ceramic, and are very aesthetic.  They are also longer lasting than composite resin bonding.

One advantage of veneers versus crowns is that much less tooth structure is removed. Veneers are not recommended for teeth that have large fillings or little tooth structure.