Temporary veneers are thin, tooth-colored coverings that dental professionals place over prepared teeth as a temporary measure during the multi-step process of getting permanent veneers. These provisional restorations bridge the gap between the initial tooth preparation appointment and the final placement of the custom-made porcelain shells. Typically crafted from materials like acrylic or composite resin, they are designed to closely mimic the appearance of the intended final veneers in shape and color. They are an interim solution, worn while the permanent veneers are being fabricated in a specialized dental laboratory, which usually takes about one to two weeks.
The Purpose of Temporary Veneers
Temporary veneers serve several important functions beyond simply acting as placeholders. Preparation for permanent veneers involves removing a small layer of enamel, which exposes the underlying dentin and makes the teeth vulnerable to sensitivity, particularly to hot and cold temperatures.
The provisional restorations provide a protective barrier, shielding the prepared teeth from irritants and reducing post-preparation sensitivity. They also maintain the health of the surrounding gum tissue and allow the patient to speak and eat more comfortably.
These temporary shells offer a “test drive” of the proposed new smile design, allowing patients to preview the size, shape, and overall aesthetics. This trial period gives the dentist and patient an opportunity to assess the design. Necessary adjustments can be made to the temporaries, ensuring the final permanent veneers meet expectations before fabrication.
Creation and Application Process
The creation of temporary veneers often begins with a diagnostic wax-up, a model of the desired final smile design. This wax-up serves as a blueprint for creating a clear or silicone index, which acts as a mold for the temporary material.
The material used is typically a chemically-cured composite or bis-acrylic resin, chosen for its minimal shrinkage and color stability. The resin is placed into the index, seated over the prepared teeth, and allowed to set. The mold is then removed, leaving the temporary veneers bonded to the teeth.
A weak, easily removable dental adhesive is used to attach the temporaries. This intentional bonding ensures the provisional restorations can be removed without damaging the underlying tooth structure or causing discomfort during final placement. The dentist cleans, trims, and polishes the temporaries for a comfortable fit and natural appearance.
Practical Guidelines for Wearing Them
Since temporary veneers are made from less durable materials and held with a weaker cement, patients must adhere to specific care instructions to prevent loosening or breaking. Oral hygiene requires gentle brushing using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Aggressive brushing or vigorous flossing risks dislodging the provisional restorations.
Patients must modify their flossing technique. Avoid pulling the floss up and out from between the teeth, as this action can lift the temporary veneer. Instead, pull the floss through the side or use a floss threader to gently clean the area.
Dietary modifications are necessary, involving the avoidance of hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could fracture or pull off the temporaries, such as sticky candies, hard nuts, ice, and tough meats. Composite and acrylic resin materials are susceptible to staining. Highly pigmented beverages like coffee, red wine, and dark teas should be minimized or consumed through a straw. If a temporary veneer comes loose, contact the dental office immediately for re-cementation, as the exposed tooth needs protection.
The Transition to Permanent Veneers
The phase of wearing temporary veneers concludes once the custom-fabricated porcelain restorations arrive from the dental laboratory. At the final appointment, the dental professional removes the temporary veneers. Since they were attached with a weak adhesive, removal is generally a simple process that does not require extensive drilling or discomfort.
The underlying prepared teeth are meticulously cleaned to remove all traces of the temporary cement. The permanent veneers are individually fitted, and the dentist assesses the fit, bite alignment, and aesthetic qualities. Once satisfied, the permanent veneers are secured with a strong dental bonding agent.
A specialized curing light hardens the bonding cement, creating a durable connection between the porcelain and the tooth enamel. This final bonding makes the permanent veneers a fixed, non-removable restoration.