Method: Patients with porcelain laminate veneers placed at least seven years ago at the Graduate Restorative Clinic, University of Michigan School of Dentistry, were recalled for clinical evaluations. At the recall visit, periodontal measurements including pocket depth, gingival recession, gingival index, and attachment level were measured using a standard probe and procedures. Gingival crevicular fluid was measured with paper strips and a periotron machine. Clinical characteristics of margin integrity, porcelain surface texture, anatomic form, margin discoloration and secondary caries were evaluated according to Modified CDA/ Ryge criteria. Photographs of veneers and impressions of any defects were recorded. Clinical esthetic evaluation was done with use of a VAS (visual analog scale) and a rating scale. A patient satisfaction questionnaire was also administered.
Result: A total of 112 veneers were evaluated in 26 patients (7 men, 19 women). Of these 112 veneers, 81 were maxillary and 31 were mandibular. Distribution of the veneers included 37 central incisors, 40 laterals and 35 canines; 86 were placed in females and 26 in males. Most of the veneers rated Alpha in porcelain surface, anatomic form, and secondary caries. 37% of the veneers rated Alpha, 60% Bravo and 3% Charlie for margin integrity. For margin discoloration, 56% rated Alpha and 44% Bravo. Retention rate of the porcelain veneers was 97%. Gingival response to the veneers was all in the satisfactory range. Gingival recession was seen primarily in the mid-facial surface (23%). Patients reported a mean overall satisfaction of 8.6 + 1.7cm on the VAS scale, while the examiners scored 6.7±1.53 and 6.24±1.62 cm independently.
Conclusion: Porcelain laminate veneers offer a reliable and successful procedure as a conservative treatment modality for unaesthetic anterior teeth with high survival and success rates.