---

Porcelain & Aesthetic Dentistry Basics

What is porcelain based aesthetic dentistry?

New developments in porcelain and bonding technologies allow us to create highly aesthetic restorations to rebuild, reshape and brighten teeth.  These restorations are both strong and durable.

Why are aesthetic dentistry procedures done?

We may not be happy with the teeth that we were born with, or the ones that developed over time (worn, fractured, discoloured).  Bonded porcelain restorations, including crowns and veneers can be used to correct these problems and create a beautiful smile.

---

Longevity, Durability & Warranties

How long will porcelain restorations last?

Based on our experience of over 25 years using these techniques we feel that the great majority of these restorations will last for a lifetime.  This assumes that there is good home care (brushing and flossing) as well as regular dental care.

Do any failures occur with porcelain restorations?

We find that there is about a 2% failure rate, mostly in the first 6 months.  These are largely bite issues.  Thereafter fractures can occur but are relatively rare.

Is there a warranty on aesthetic restorations?

We provide a warranty against fracture and other issues for the first five years.

---

Care & Maintenance of Porcelain Restorations

How do I care for my new restorations?

Good oral hygiene: daily brushing and flossing to remove plaque is generally all that is required.  They are very much like natural teeth.

Are there any precautions to be observed?

Porcelain restorations are very strong but do not like point-to-point pressure.  You can eat apples and corn on the cob, but don’t use them as tools: to bite your fingernails, bite off a piece of thread or tear open a plastic package.

Will porcelain restorations stain?

The restorations are made out of a non-porous glass (porcelain). Minor surface staining can develop but not the internal staining seen in natural teeth.

---

Treatment Planning & Payment

What is your payment policy for aesthetic dentistry?

Because of the large time commitment and the elective basis of aesthetic dentistry, we ask that the case be paid in full two weeks prior to commencing treatment.

Do alternative treatments exist?

In assessing aesthetic concerns we regularly recommend orthodontics as a preferable treatment, depending on the situation.  And in unusual situations other treatments may be considered.

---

Treatment Timeline & Appointments

What is the timing of aesthetic dentistry treatment?

There are a number of shorter appointments leading up to commencing  treatment.  These include consultations, record taking etc.

The first major appointment is to prepare the teeth, take impressions of them and place temporary restorations.  This can be one to three hours depending on the situation.  A day or two later there is a short visit to review the treatment.

Two weeks later there is a second major appointment to place and bond the restorations.  We generally have two short follow-up visits after that.