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Veneers
Dental veneers are permanent wafer thin shells of porcelain or similar materials that can improve the colour, shape and position of your teeth. It is a similar concept to the application of false fingernails, but they last a lot longer!
Veneers are custom made to specific shapes, sizes, colours and characteristics so to appear harmonious with the rest of your smile. We work closely with our highly experienced dental technicians to ensure that you are happy with the comfort and look of your veneers.
Veneers are a popular, minimally invasive versatile treatment choice that can be used in a number of scenarios; closing gaps between teeth, covering discoloured or damaged teeth and realigning teeth in smile makeovers.
How are teeth prepared for a veneer?
Sometimes, a small amount of the shiny outer enamel surface of the tooth may be removed, to make sure that the veneer can be bonded permanently in place later. The amount of enamel removed is tiny and will be the same as the thickness of the veneer to be fitted, so that the tooth stays the same size. A local anaesthetic (injection) may be used to make sure that there is no discomfort, but often this is not necessary. Once the tooth has been prepared, the dentist will take an ‘impression’ (mould). This will be given to the dental technician, along with any other information needed to make the veneer. The colour of the surrounding teeth is matched on a shade guide to make sure that the veneer will look entirely natural.
How long will it take?
A veneer takes at least two visits: the first to prepare the tooth and to match the shade, and the second to fit it. Before bonding it in place, your dentist will show you the veneer on your tooth to make sure you are happy with it. Bonding a veneer in place is done with a special adhesive, which holds it firmly on the tooth.
Will I need a temporary veneer between visits?
Because the preparation of the tooth is so slight you will probably not need a temporary veneer. The tooth will look very much the same after preparation, but will feel slightly less smooth.
What happens after the veneer is fitted?
Only minor adjustments can be made to the veneer after it is fitted. It is usually best to wait a little while to get used to it before any changes are made. Your dentist will probably want to check and polish it a week or so after it is fitted, and make sure that you are happy with it.
How long will a veneer last?
Veneers should last for many years; but they can chip or break, just as your own teeth can. Your dentist will tell you how long each individual veneer should last. Small chips can be repaired, or a new veneer fitted if necessary.
What about alternatives?
A natural-coloured filling material can be used for minor repairs to front teeth. This is excellent where the tooth supports a filling, but may not work so well for broken tooth corners. There will always be a join between the tooth and the filling material. If the remaining tooth is weak and has little support for a veneer, we may do a full coverage dental crown.
