Dental veneers are thin materials that are placed over the visible part of your teeth to improve your smile and facial esthetics.
The following are the uses of veneers:-
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Stained teeth that cannot be bleached
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Worn teeth
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Chipped teeth
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Crooked teeth
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Wide gaps between your teeth, especially the upper front teeth
Veneers are either made of porcelain or composite resins. Each have their benefits and disadvantages. Ask your dentist for the best treatment option for you.
Porcelain Veneers
Benefits of Porcelain Veneers:-
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Strong
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Long-lasting
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Conserves tooth because less tooth needs to be reduced to fit a veneer as compared to a crown or “cap”
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Looks natural
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Doesn’t stain easily
Steps in Placement:-
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The dentist will first prepare the front and sides of the tooth to make space for the veneer.
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An impression of the prepared tooth is taken.
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Shade matching is done to select a veneer of the correct color shade.
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The impression is sent to the lab for fabrication of the veneer. This can take a few days. Until then temporary veneers are placed over the tooth.
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In the next appointment, the temporary is removed and the final veneer is placed over the tooth for adjustments.
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Once the adjustments are over, the veneer is bonded to the tooth surface.
Composite Veneers
Benefits of Composite Veneers:-
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As compared to crowns and porcelain veneers, less tooth needs to be removed.
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Cheaper than porcelain.
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Can be fabricated on the same day sometimes.
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Not as strong as porcelain veneers but can be repaired more easily as compared to porcelain.
Steps in Placement:-
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Tooth is reduced to make room for the veneer.
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Resin is molded and shaped to the tooth.
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It is cured with a special light.
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Final polishing is done to make it resemble the adjacent teeth.
Who Can Get Veneers?
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Patients with healthy gums and teeth.
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No parafunctional habits like clenching or grinding your teeth as these habits can cause the veneers to chip off. A nightguard may be given to you if you have these habits.
After the Veneer has been placed
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Don’t chew on hard surfaces, like pencils etc. as this can chip the veneers.
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You may feel uncomfortable for a while because of the added material over your teeth. But if your bite doesn’t feel right, then ask your dentist to correct it before you leave the dental office.
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Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing every day as decay can occur around the veneers.
Veneers can become loose or break-off over time. But if done well, they can last for a long time. Discuss with your dentist regarding the treatment options available to you and the benefits of getting a veneer.
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