A veneer is a thin layer of porcelain made to fit over the front surface of a tooth, like a false fingernail fits over a nail.
When Would I Need A Veneer
Veneers can improve the colour, shape and position of your teeth. A precise shade of porcelain can be chosen to give the right colour to improve a single discoloured tooth or to lighten your front teeth. A veneer can make a chipped tooth look whole again. The porcelain covers the whole of the front of the tooth, with a thicker section replacing the broken part. Veneers can also be used to close small gaps, when orthodontics (braces) are not suitable. If one tooth is slightly out of position, a veneer can sometimes be fitted to bring it into line with the others.
What Are The Advantages
Veneers make teeth look natural and healthy. Because they are very thin and are held in place by a very strong adhesive, very little preparation of the tooth is needed.
How Are Teeth Prepared For A Veneer
A small layer of enamel is removed from the surface of the tooth to make sure that the veneer can be bonded permanently in place later. The amount of enamel removed is minimal and will be the same thickness of the veneer to be fitted. A local anaesthetic (injection) may be used to make sure that there is no discomfort, but often this is not needed. Once the tooth has been prepared, the dental team will take an impression (mould) which will then be sent 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 the same as your own teeth.
How Long Will It Take
A veneer takes two visits. The first is to prepare the tooth and match the shade, and the second is 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 light you will probably not need a temporary veneer. The tooth will look very much the same after preparation, but will feel slightly less smooth.
How much will it cost?
The costs for this treatment can vary from practice to practice so it is important to discuss charges and treatment options with your dental team before starting treatment.
How Long Do Veneer’s Last
Veneers should last for many years but may chip or break, just like your own teeth can. Small chips can be repaired, or a new veneer fitted if necessary.