Veneers are a thin sheet of porcelain covering or facing that is placed over the outside (visible area) of the tooth that is visible when talking or smiling. Veneers are great because they can:
The veneer procedure can be direct or indirect.
The direct technique, involves placing composite resin 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, impressions taken, and the teeth are given a temporary covering. The temporary covering allows some time for the doctor and the patient to evaluate the aesthetics, the occlusion and make any changes before that lab fabricates the final restorations. When the final veneers are ready, the temporaries 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.