Veneers
A combination of personal, environmental and lifestyle factors can leave your teeth looking chipped, crooked, stained or discoloured. There is now a variety of modern cosmetic dental treatments which can significantly improve the look of your smile.
There are two main types of veneers: porcelain veneers and direct laminate or composite veneers. Both have their advantages and your dentist can advise you on which option is best for you.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin, tooth-coloured shells (usually made of a cermaic porcelain) which can be attached to the front surface of an existing tooth. They can be a good option for treating stained, discoloured, chipped, misaligned and mishapen teeth, as well as fill gaps in between teeth.
Procedure
Several visits to the dentists will generally be required to complete treatment. Treatment time will depend on the number of teeth being treated. Before a veneer can be fitted your dentist will need to remove a thin layer from the surface of the original tooth. This will allow enough space for the porcelain veneer. An impression will be taken and the veneers will be made by a special technician. When the veneers are ready, the colour and fit will be confirmed before they are permanently bonded to the original teeth with cement. Although porcelain veneers can be trimmed and polished once applied to the tooth, they cannot be changed in any major way.
Direct Laminate/Composite Veneers
Direct laminate or composite veneers are another type of veneer. They can be designed with the patient in the dental chair, giving them the opportunity to provide feedback regarding every aspect of their construction.
Procedure
Direct laminate or composite veneers usually require the surface of the tooth to be etched or removed in order to successfully apply an adhesive coating. A putty-like material is then bonded to the tooth surface layer by layer. Each layer is hardened by the application of an intense light after which the veneer is re-shaped and polished to remeble a natural tooth.
Although direct laminate or composite veneers can sometimes be less invasive, they are not generally considered to be as strong as a porcelain veneer. Your dentist can advise you on which veneers are best for you.
For more information on which procedures are available at your local Primary Dental, please contact your local centre directly.
