Porcelain Veneers
If you have teeth that are stained, chipped, uneven or gapped, porcelain veneers can change the way you see your smile. They are one of the most versatile cosmetic treatments available, and each veneer is made to suit your teeth and your face. At Edgemont Dental in Southwest Edmonton, we plan veneers carefully and explain every step, so you know what to expect.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are bonded to the front of your teeth. Porcelain reflects light much like natural tooth enamel, so veneers can look lifelike and are resistant to staining. A single veneer can repair one damaged tooth, or a set of veneers can reshape the whole smile.
What Veneers Can Improve
Discolouration: Teeth that do not respond well to whitening
Chips and cracks: Minor damage to the front of a tooth
Gaps: Spaces between teeth
Uneven teeth: Teeth that are too short, too small or irregularly shaped
Worn edges: Teeth that have been worn down over time
Benefits of Porcelain Veneers
Natural look: Colour, shape and size are chosen to suit your face and your smile.
Stain resistant: Porcelain resists staining from foods and drinks like coffee and tea.
Versatile: One treatment can address several concerns at once.
Conservative: Veneers generally need less tooth preparation than crowns.
Durable: With good care, veneers can last for many years.
The Veneer Process
1. Consultation and smile planning
We discuss what you would like to change, examine your teeth and gums, and take digital images and scans. A digital preview shows the likely result, and there is no commitment at this stage. You will see your options and receive a clear treatment plan and cost estimate before treatment begins.
2. Smile design and trial mock-up
Veneer shape, size and colour are planned around your facial features and natural colouring. A trial mock-up lets you preview the result before any preparation begins.
3. Preparing your teeth
A small amount of enamel is usually removed so the veneers fit naturally. The area is numbed so you are comfortable, and temporary veneers may be placed while your final ones are made.
4. Making your veneers
A precise impression or digital scan is used to design your veneers, and a ceramist crafts them layer by layer for depth, translucency and colour.
5. Bonding your veneers
Your veneers are tried in, checked for fit and colour, and then bonded in place. We make final adjustments to make sure your bite feels comfortable.
Before Your Visit
- If you would like whiter teeth, whiten your natural teeth first. Veneers cannot be whitened, so we match their shade to your teeth afterward.
- Bring photos of smiles you like, and tell us what you would like to change.
- Let us know if you grind your teeth, so we can plan to protect your veneers.
After Your Treatment
- Your mouth may be numb for a couple of hours after preparation. Take care when eating and drinking hot items.
- While you wear temporary veneers, avoid sticky and hard foods and floss gently.
- Some sensitivity afterward is possible but usually settles down.
- Brush twice a day, floss daily and attend regular checkups and cleanings.
- Avoid biting your nails, chewing ice or using your teeth to open packaging.
- If you grind your teeth, wear the custom night guard we recommend.
- Call us if a veneer feels rough, chipped or loose. Minor chips can often be repaired without replacing the whole veneer.
Are Veneers Right for You?
Veneers work best on healthy teeth and gums. If you have decay or gum disease, we will treat those first. Your dentist may also suggest alternatives, such as whitening, bonding or Invisalign, if they suit your goals better.
Why Choose Edgemont Dental
- Careful planning with digital scans, a digital smile preview and clear explanations
- Honest advice about whether veneers are the right option
- Options for anxious patients, including nitrous oxide and oral sedation
- A detailed written estimate before treatment, and financing options for larger treatment plans
- Evening appointments Monday to Thursday and Saturday appointments on alternating weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do porcelain veneers last?
With good care, veneers can last for many years. How long they last depends on your oral hygiene, your habits and your bite.
Are veneers permanent?
Because some enamel is removed to fit veneers, the treatment is considered permanent. Your dentist will explain this before you decide.
Does getting veneers hurt?
Your teeth are numbed during preparation, so you should feel comfortable. Some sensitivity afterwards is possible but usually settles down.
How much do veneers cost?
Cost depends on how many teeth are treated and the plan for your smile. After your consultation you will receive an itemised estimate before treatment begins.
Can I whiten my veneers?
No. Veneers do not change colour with whitening. If you want a brighter smile, whiten your natural teeth first and we will match the veneer shade to them.
Book a Veneer Consultation in Edmonton
Call (780) 761-7070 or book online to talk about your smile goals. You will find us at 20036 Lessard Rd NW, Edmonton, AB T6M 0T9.