Porcelain Veneers: What to Expect Before, During & After Treatment

Improving your smile can make a big difference in your confidence and overall appearance. One of the most popular and effective cosmetic treatments today is Porcelain Veneers in Calgary. These thin shells, custom-made to fit your teeth, offer a natural-looking solution to issues like chips, stains, gaps, or uneven teeth.

If you're considering veneers for the first time, it's important to know what happens before, during, and after the procedure. A skilled Calgary dentist can guide you through the process and help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.

What Are Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers are thin, tooth-colored shells that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth. They are used to improve the appearance of your smile by correcting:

• Discolored teeth that don’t respond to whitening

• Worn down or chipped teeth

• Gaps between teeth

• Uneven or misshaped teeth

• Slight alignment issues

Porcelain is chosen for its strength, durability, and ability to mimic the light-reflecting qualities of natural teeth.

Step 1: Before Getting Porcelain Veneers

Getting porcelain veneers is a process that begins with proper planning and preparation. This ensures the best results and long-term satisfaction.

Initial Consultation

Your first visit with a Calgary dentist will involve a detailed examination of your teeth and gums. During this appointment, the dentist will:

• Assess your dental health to ensure veneers are suitable

• Discuss your goals and expectations

• Take X-rays or digital impressions if needed

• Develop a customized treatment plan

You’ll also talk about the number of veneers needed and what results you can realistically expect. It’s important to have healthy gums and no underlying decay before moving forward.

Preparation of the Teeth

To make room for the veneers, a small amount of enamel is usually removed from the front surface of your teeth. This step allows the veneers to sit naturally and not appear bulky.

The amount of enamel removed is minimal—often less than half a millimeter—and is necessary for proper bonding. Impressions are then taken and sent to a dental lab where your custom veneers will be created.

Important Pre-Treatment Tips:

• Maintain good oral hygiene before the procedure

• Avoid biting hard foods to protect your natural enamel

• Discuss any sensitivity issues with your dentist

Step 2: During the Veneer Procedure

The placement of porcelain veneers is typically completed in two main appointments: one for preparation and another for bonding.

Temporary Veneers

While your custom veneers are being made, your dentist may place temporary ones. These protect your teeth and give you a preview of how your new smile will look.

Fitting the Veneers

Once your veneers are ready, your dentist in Calgary will begin the placement process:

• Each veneer is checked for fit, color, and shape

• Minor adjustments may be made to ensure a perfect fit

• The teeth are cleaned and prepared for bonding

• A special dental adhesive is applied

• The veneers are carefully placed and cured with a light to secure them

The entire bonding process is painless and takes around 1–2 hours depending on the number of veneers.

Step 3: Aftercare and What to Expect Post-Treatment

After your veneers are placed, you'll leave the clinic with a brand-new smile. However, it’s important to follow some care guidelines to help your veneers last.

Immediate Aftercare

• Avoid hard or sticky foods for the first few days

• You may experience mild sensitivity to hot or cold — this usually fades

• Rinse with lukewarm salt water if gums feel irritated

Long-Term Care Tips:

• Brush and floss daily, just like with natural teeth

• Use a non-abrasive toothpaste to protect the porcelain

• Avoid using your teeth to open packages or bite nails

• Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night

Porcelain veneers are stain-resistant, but your natural teeth are not. To keep a consistent shade across your smile, reduce your intake of staining foods like coffee, tea, and red wine.

How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?

With proper care, porcelain veneers can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years or more. Regular dental check-ups are essential to monitor their condition and ensure your gums and surrounding teeth remain healthy.

If a veneer becomes loose or damaged, your dentist can easily repair or replace it without major procedures.

Are You a Good Candidate for Veneers?

Porcelain veneers are ideal for adults looking for long-lasting cosmetic results. You may be a good candidate if you:

• Have healthy gums and teeth

• Do not grind your teeth excessively

• Want to improve the shape, size, or color of your teeth

• Are looking for a long-term solution

However, if you have large fillings, gum disease, or severe misalignment, your dentist may suggest other treatments before veneers.

Benefits of Porcelain Veneers

Here are a few reasons why many patients choose veneers:

• Natural Appearance – Porcelain reflects light like enamel

• Durability – Resistant to stains and wear

• Quick Results – Major smile transformation in just a few visits

• Minimally Invasive – Less enamel removal than crowns

• Customized Fit – Each veneer is crafted for your unique smile

Common Questions About Veneers

Do veneers damage your teeth?
No, but a small amount of enamel is removed during preparation. This is necessary to fit the veneer and bond it securely.

Can veneers fall off?
It's rare, but veneers can come loose over time due to wear or trauma. Your dentist can rebond or replace them if needed.

Do veneers look fake?
Not at all. When done properly by an experienced dentist, porcelain veneers look just like natural teeth—only better.

Final Thoughts

A new smile with porcelain veneers can boost your confidence and change the way you feel about your appearance. By knowing what to expect before, during, and after the treatment, you’ll feel more prepared and comfortable with the process.

If you’re considering Porcelain Veneers in Calgary, the team at Inglewood Family Dental in Calgary is here to help. We offer personalized care and experienced professionals dedicated to creating natural-looking, long-lasting smiles. Whether you need veneers or general dental care from a trusted Calgary dentist, we’ll guide you every step of the way.