Porcelain Veneers in New Westminster, BC

Veneers are a cosmetic treatment that can change the colour, shape and size of front teeth. At Sapperton Dental in New Westminster, we offer porcelain veneers for patients who want a brighter, more even smile, and we will help you decide whether veneers or a more conservative option is the right fit.

What Are Porcelain Veneers?

A veneer is a thin shell of porcelain that is bonded to the front surface of a tooth. Each veneer is custom-made to match the shape and shade you choose with your dentist. Porcelain resists staining and reflects light much like natural enamel.

What Can Veneers Fix?

• Stains that do not respond to teeth whitening
• Chipped, worn or slightly broken front teeth
• Small gaps between teeth
• Teeth that are uneven, short or irregular in shape
• Minor crowding, in some cases

Veneers are not a substitute for treating decay or gum disease, which need to be addressed first. If your main concern is alignment, Invisalign may be a better choice, or may be done before veneers.

The Veneer Process

1. Consultation: we examine your teeth and gums, talk about your goals and check whether veneers are suitable.
2. Planning: we choose the shape and shade with you. A preview of the planned result may be possible.
3. Preparation: a thin layer of enamel is usually removed from the front of the tooth so the veneer sits naturally. This step is not reversible.
4. Impressions and temporaries: impressions go to the dental lab, and temporary veneers may be placed.
5. Bonding: the final veneers are checked for fit and colour, then bonded in place and polished.

Veneers vs. Other Cosmetic Options

• Teeth whitening brightens natural teeth without changing their shape. It does not change the colour of veneers, crowns or fillings, so whitening is often done first.
• Composite bonding can repair small chips in a single visit and removes little or no enamel, but it stains and wears more easily than porcelain.
• Crowns cover the whole tooth and are better for teeth that are heavily filled or weakened. See crowns and bridges.

Caring for Your Veneers

• Brush twice a day and floss daily, just like natural teeth.
• Avoid biting nails, pens or ice, and do not use your teeth to open packages.
• Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth, and a mouthguard for contact sports.
• Keep up regular check-ups so we can monitor the veneers and the gums around them.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do porcelain veneers last?

Veneers commonly last many years with good care. Over time, a veneer may need to be repaired or replaced, and gums can change around it.

Are veneers permanent?

Because enamel is usually removed, the treatment is considered permanent. The tooth will always need a veneer or other restoration.

Can I still get cavities with veneers?

Yes. The tooth underneath and the edges of the veneer can still decay, so daily brushing and flossing remain important.

How many veneers do I need?

It depends on your smile and goals. Some patients need one or two to fix a chipped tooth; others choose several to change the look of the teeth that show when they smile.

Book a Cosmetic Consultation

To find out whether veneers are right for you, contact Sapperton Dental at 301 East Columbia Street #105, New Westminster. Call 604-544-0894 or request an appointment.