Dental veneers are thin custom made shells that cover the front surface of your tooth to improve their appearance. They are made of tooth colored materials and can be used to improve the color of teeth that have been worn down or stained. Alternatively, they can be used to improve the shape or size of the tooth.

Types of veneers
There are two types of veneers that are commonly used. Porcelain veneers are more durable, and resist stains better. The properties of the material also helps to create a very natural tooth look. Unlike porcelain veneers, composite resin veneers are not made in a laboratory, but instead directly applied to the teeth. They typically have a shorter life span, and are less expensive.

When should you consider dental veneers?
Talk to your dentist about dental veneers if your teeth

• are stained or discolored
• are crooked or misshapen
• have spaces between them
• are broken or chipped

How its done
Two visits to your dentist are typically required for porcelain veneers. At your first visit, three important steps are completed. First, your teeth are prepared to be fitted with a veneer, which involves trimming a portion of the tooth so the veneer can be bonded to it. Second, an impression is taken of your tooth to prepare the permanent veneer. And third, you may receive a temporary veneer. The temporary veneer will protect your tooth while the permanent veneer is prepared.

During your second visit, the temporary veneer (if you received one) will be removed and your permanent veneer will be checked for fit and color.  When you and Dr. Hunsinger are satisfied with the look and feel of the permanent veneer, he will permanently bond it to your tooth. And you are done!