Veneers

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What are Veneers?

They are like facings for the teeth.
Dental Veneers sometimes called porcelain veneers are thin, custom made shells of tooth coloured composite or porcelain materials designed to cover the front surface of your teeth to improve their appearance. These shells are bonded to the front of the teeth changing their colour, shape, size, or length.

Treatment.
There are two types of treatments for veneers as there are two types of veneers.

Indirect Porcelain veneer.
You will have a consult and then primary impression will taken to make models and wax up your teeth to show you how your teeth are likely to look in terms of its shape. Then 2 more appointments will be needed.
In the first appointment the tooth will be prepared for the veneer, impressions will be taken and a temporary veneer will be cemented to your tooth while the impressions are sent to the lab to have the veneer made. Generally 2 weeks later at the second visit the temporary veneer will be removed and the permanent veneer will be cemented.

Direct Composite veneer.
This is done in the one appointment where a filling material is used to cover the front surface of the tooth, this is not as strong as a porcelain veneer and is prone to staining over time but will still improve the aesthetics of your teeth. It is generally not as well polished as a Porcelain veneer.

Dental Veneers FAQs

1. What are dental veneers?

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of your teeth to improve their appearance. They are typically made from porcelain or composite resin and are bonded to your teeth to change their color, shape, size, or length.

2. What issues can dental veneers fix?

Dental veneers can address a variety of dental issues, including:

Discolored teeth that do not respond to whitening treatments
Worn-down teeth
Chipped or broken teeth
Misaligned, uneven, or irregularly shaped teeth
Gaps between teeth

3. What are the different types of veneers?

The two main types of veneers are:

Porcelain Veneers: Durable, stain-resistant, and mimic the light-reflecting properties of natural teeth.
Composite Resin Veneers: Less expensive, can be applied in a single visit, and are easier to repair if damaged.

4. How are dental veneers applied?

The process for applying dental veneers typically involves three steps:

Consultation: The dentist discusses your goals and examines your teeth to determine if veneers are suitable for you.
Preparation: A small amount of enamel is removed from the tooth surface to accommodate the veneer. Impressions of your teeth are taken to create custom veneers.
Bonding: The veneers are placed on your teeth to check for fit and color, then permanently bonded using a special adhesive.

5. How long do dental veneers last?

With proper care, porcelain veneers can last 10-15 years or longer, while composite veneers typically last 5-7 years. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential for maintaining the longevity of your veneers.

6. How should I care for my dental veneers?

Caring for your dental veneers involves:

Brushing and flossing regularly
Avoiding biting on hard objects like ice or pens
Limiting foods and drinks that can stain, especially for composite veneers
Wearing a mouthguard if you grind or clench your teeth
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings

7. Will dental veneers look natural?

Yes, dental veneers are designed to look natural and blend seamlessly with your existing teeth. Porcelain veneers, in particular, mimic the light-reflecting properties of natural teeth, providing a realistic appearance.

8. Are there any risks or side effects with dental veneers?

While dental veneers are generally safe, potential risks or side effects include:

Tooth sensitivity, especially to hot or cold temperatures, after enamel removal
Veneers can chip or crack if not cared for properly
The procedure is irreversible due to the removal of enamel

9. Can dental veneers be whitened?

No, dental veneers cannot be whitened with traditional teeth whitening treatments. If you are considering teeth whitening, it’s best to do so before getting veneers so that they can be matched to your newly whitened teeth.

10. How much do dental veneers cost?

The cost of dental veneers varies based on the material used and the complexity of the procedure. Porcelain veneers are typically more expensive than composite veneers. During your consultation, we will provide a detailed cost estimate and discuss payment options and insurance coverage.

11. Are dental veneers suitable for everyone?

Dental veneers are suitable for many people, but they may not be the best option for those with significant tooth decay, gum disease, or weakened teeth. A thorough dental examination will help determine if veneers are right for you. If the remaining tooth structure does not have enough enamel the full coverage crown may be the best option instead of veneer.

12. What should I do if a veneer gets damaged?

If a veneer gets damaged, contact your dentist immediately. Do not attempt to fix it yourself. Depending on the extent of the damage, the veneer may need to be repaired or replaced.

13. How long does the veneer application process take?

The veneer application process typically requires two to three visits over a few weeks. This includes the initial consultation, tooth preparation, and final bonding of the veneers.