Porcelain and composite veneers are thin tooth-coloured “shells” carefully crafted to bond to and cover the front of damaged or discoloured teeth. They are a more conservative treatment than a crown and can often be used as an alternative if the underlying tooth is strong and healthy.
Veneers are excellent for treating chipped, discoloured or misshapen teeth or gaps between the teeth especially if on the front teeth. They are literally bonded – cemented – onto the front surface of teeth and designed to improve the colour, shape, length, spacing, alignment and lustre of one or several teeth. Once bonded, porcelain veneers are strong and beautiful.
Advantages of veneers:
- Applications is relatively painless
- Can be cheaper and simpler than crowns
- Veneers are resistant to staining due to age, tea, coffee and wine
- Porcelain cement is strong making veneers comparable in strength to normal teeth
- As long as they are properly applied and maintained, veneers can last for many years
- Porcelain will not decay
Your dentist will discuss your needs and plan the treatment that best suits you.
But generally, the preparation of veneers will take a few visits. Your dentist will prepare your teeth in advance. While you are waiting for your veneer to be fitted, your teeth will feel rough and strange due to their exposed buffed surfaces. They may also feel sensitive to air, touch, heat and cold. Attention to hygiene at this time is very important.
Once your veneers are fitted your dentist will explain how to take care of them.
Remember, healthy gums are essential to the success of veneers and daily attention to oral hygiene is important