Dental Veneers

Ceramic veneers do not yellow and are highly resistant to strains. Composite veneers, however, are more likely to discolor and may stain over time.

No, the veneer placement procedure is generally painless. It can also be performed under local anesthesia if needed. Some temporary sensitivity may occur after the procedure, but it usually resolves quickly.

A dental veneer is a thin shell designed to cover only the visible surface of the tooth, preserving most of the natural tooth structure.

A dental crown, on the other hand, is a shell that covers the entire tooth, providing full protection and restoration.

No, good oral health is essential. The absence of cavities and gum disease is required before veneers can be placed. Any existing dental issues must be treated beforehand.

With proper dental hygiene and regular care, porcelain veneers typically last 10 to 15 years. Composite veneers are less durable, with a lifespan of 5 to 10 years.

Since dental veneers are considered a purely cosmetic procedure, they are not covered by the RAMQ. For the same reason, private insurance plans generally do not reimburse the cost of veneers.

The only way to confirm whether the procedure may be covered by your insurance is to request approval by submitting a detailed estimate directly to your private insurer.

Ceramic, also known as porcelain, is a high-end material used in cosmetic dentistry. Its unique properties far surpass those of composite resin in terms of durability and longevity.

Here are the main advantages of ceramic veneers:

• Natural aesthetics: Ceramic perfectly mimics the shine and texture of natural enamel.
• Stain resistance: This non-porous material is highly resistant to yellowing.
• Excellent durability: Porcelain offers remarkable strength and a lifespan far superior to that of composite.
• Biocompatibility: This option is highly compatible with the gums, which greatly reduces the risk of inflammation.

Ceramic dental veneers are therefore a long-term investment in your smile, offering the greatest longevity available on the market.

The dental veneer placement procedure generally takes place over two separate appointments.

Day 1

Using precision instruments, the dentist removes a thin layer of enamel from the surface of the natural teeth to prepare them for the veneers. The dentist then takes an impression, either using a traditional mold or a high-precision digital camera.

These impressions are sent to the lab for the fabrication of custom-made veneers. While waiting for the final veneers, temporary veneers are placed to protect the teeth and maintain the aesthetics of the smile.

Day 2

The dentist carefully removes the temporary veneers to proceed with the permanent placement. Each veneer is then placed individually and bonded using a specialized dental cement made of composite resin, ensuring a durable and precise bond.

Although the procedure for placing veneers is now highly refined and safe, it does carry certain clinical risks. Fortunately, most of these complications can be prevented through the dentist’s expertise and good oral hygiene.

Here are the main complications and how to manage them:

1. Gingivitis or periodontitis

Without proper brushing, plaque can build up around the gums, causing irritation, bleeding, and, in the long term, premature tooth loss. Rigorous oral hygiene is generally sufficient to keep your periodontal tissues in perfect health.

2. Dental nerve necrosis

In rare cases, the enamel removal required to prepare the teeth can irritate the nerve and lead to dental nerve necrosis. However, dentists today remove only a very thin layer of enamel, significantly reducing the risk of this problem occurring.

3. Cracks or Detachment

Veneers are highly durable, but excessive pressure, such as teeth grinding or biting into hard foods, can damage them. In cases of bruxism, wearing a nightguard is effective enough to protect your new smile.

The long-term success of your dental veneers depends on both your dentist’s expertise and your at-home oral hygiene routine. With regular checkups and proper cleaning, your veneers will remain in perfect condition for many years.