Get Your Porcelain Veneers Done in Calgary
Do you have worn tooth enamel? Are some of your teeth misaligned or do you have spacing issues with your teeth? Have you previously chipped or cracked a tooth? A composite or porcelain veneer at our Calgary dental office can help solve these issues.
A dental veneer is a shell of tooth-coloured porcelain that goes over the facial surfaces of your teeth. It can be coloured to match your existing teeth and, when finished, it looks like your existing teeth. Veneers may be considered cosmetic dentistry, but they serve a valuable purpose. They protect the surface of damaged teeth and can help prevent other, more costly treatments in the future. They are also very durable and require little to no removal of the existing tooth structure because it is a minimally invasive procedure.
Getting a Veneer
The procedure to receive a veneer is generally done over two appointments over the course of six weeks. In the first visit our dentist will examine the area where the veneer will be applied and select the correct colour. The dentist will come up with a plan for preparation and placement of the veneer and can provide an image of what the final product will look like.
At the second visit the dentist may start with a local anesthetic, depending on the amount of work that needs to be done. The natural tooth is then shaped with a rotational cutting device to provide a proper fit. The composite is then applied to the teeth and shaped. An ultraviolet light is used to harden the material. If more composite is needed the process is repeated until veneer is in the correct shape. Once that composite is placed it is polished and shaped to look like a lifelike tooth.
If a porcelain veneer is used the dentist will take an impression of your teeth before the porcelain is fabricated in a dental laboratory. It is then applied to the tooth with a bonding agent.
Care for a Veneer
Caring for your veneer is critical, but they are often extremely durable and can last for many years. By visiting your dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups we can make sure that your veneer is in its proper place. To avoid damage, it is wise to avoid chewing on hard objects such as nuts or bones. The good news is that you can brush and floss like normal to care for veneers.
Cost of a Veneer
The cost of a veneer depends on the type of material used. A porcelain veneer is more expensive and can cost between $900 and $2,500 per tooth depending on the amount of damage it is replacing. A composite veneer is cheaper at $250 to $1,500 per tooth. Porcelain veneers last longer at around 10-15 years compared to composite veneers, which only last five to seven years. We can also work with you and your insurance provider regarding cost.
For more information on veneers or to schedule an appointment please give us a call.
