Dental veneers (sometimes called porcelain veneers or dental porcelain laminates) are wafer-thin, custom-made shells of semi translucent tooth-colored porcelain designed to cover the front surface of teeth. These shells are bonded to the front of the teeth changing their color, shape, size or length and resulting in an improved appearance.

Porcelain veneers first appeared in the 1930's as temporary devices for film actors with bad teeth. In the early 1980's the development of dental microscopic etching and bonding allowed the creation of strongly attached, very life-like veneers that resist staining and can last many years. Dr. Loshin has placed hundreds of veneers since 1984 when he was one of the first dentists in Seattle to do these beautiful, yet technically challenging, restorations.

Not all teeth are good candidates for veneers. Veneers are best placed on healthy teeth that can provide adequate support and are fairly well aligned. Some minor alignment problems can be corrected with veneers. This is sometimes called "instant orthodontics." Other likely candidates are teeth with gaps or spaces, dark colors or bad stains, chips or cracks.

The procedure is done in two appointments. On the first, a small amount of surface enamel ( 1/50 inch) is buffed away, shaping each tooth which will receive a veneer. An impression of the teeth is made for use by our onsite dental laboratory where the veneer is fabricated. Digital photographs and computerized shade matching are used to achieve the best possible cosmetic result. We are unlike most dental offices that "send out" this laboratory work. Instead we have a state-of-the-art ceramic lab onsite, with a full-time dental ceramist who will personally work with you to correctly color your new teeth.

On the second appointment the veneers are gently placed on the teeth for your approval. When (and only when) you, Dr. Loshin, and our ceramist, all agree that our veneers are fitting well, and properly colored, will we proceed to attach them to your teeth. This is a comfortable process wherein several liquids and gels are applied to your teeth, the veneers pressed on and cured by shining a laser-like curing light on the teeth.

Veneers require no special upkeep beyond regular good preventive dental hygiene with tooth brushing and flossing.

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