Veneers

A veneer is a thin layer of restorative material placed over a prepared tooth surface, either to improve the aesthetics of a tooth, or to protect a damaged tooth surface. There are two main types of material used to fabricate a veneer: composite or dental porcelain. A composite veneer may be directly placed (built-up in the mouth), or indirectly fabricated by a dental technician in a dental laboratory, and later bonded to the tooth by the dentist, typically using a resin cement. In contrast, a porcelain veneer may only be indirectly fabricated at a dental laboratory. Porcelain veneers are typically thought to be somewhat more durable and less likely to stain than veneers made of composite.

When bonded to the tooth with today’s improved cements and bonding agents, veneers typically last 10-30 years although they may need to be replaced well before this time if there is a traumatic incident or excessive wear issue such as nail biting.

Veneers need to be created and placed with the utmost attention to detail. Dr. Schau takes the time and effort to make sure that veneers are color-matched to the surrounding teeth and fit perfectly for long term durability.