What are Dental Veneers?

Porcelain veneers are thin shells made of translucent porcelain that are bonded to your teeth for cosmetic purposes. Extremely versatile and durable, porcelain veneers are an excellent option whether you want to change the color or shape of your teeth, close gaps between teeth, or permanently fix chipped teeth. In just two visits, Dr. Murphy can provide you with a new, beautiful smile.

Who is a Good Candidate for Veneers?

Veneers are helpful for patients who have discoloration, staining, wear, chips, or spacing issues with their smile. Any adult patient can be a good candidate for veneers if they have healthy teeth with strong bone support. 

For new patients to our office, we first require a comprehensive exam to ensure the health and stability of your teeth, gums, and bone. We then are able to discuss your goals and options so that we can determine a customized treatment plan. If you are a good candidate for porcelain veneers, preliminary impressions can then be taken and a desired shade for your new smile can be chosen. 

Established patients of our office who have been regularly seen are able to begin the veneer process with a consultation appointment to discuss goals and take preliminary impressions. We also use the consultation appointment to determine the desired shade for your new bright, white smile.

After we determine that you are a good candidate for veneers, we can set up two appointments to prepare and cement your new smile.

How are Veneers Applied?

In the first appointment, your teeth are minimally reduced to create room for the new veneers. A digital scan is then taken and temporary veneers are applied to wear until the second appointment. Between appointments your veneers are designed, milled, glazed, and baked by Dr. Murphy in-office using CEREC technology. 

Days later, the second appointment involves trying on your new veneers and bonding them into place. Patients typically start with upper veneers but many later choose to complete their smile makeover with lower veneers, which requires two additional appointments. Porcelain veneers preserve as much of your existing tooth structure as possible, and give patients a long lasting smile.

If you are interested in finding out how you may benefit from veneers, contact Mark S. Murphy, DDS, Inc. to schedule a consultation.

What Type of Veneers are Available?