What are they? Veneers are thin shells, or facings, of porcelain that are cemented onto the front of the teeth in order to improve the colour or shape of the teeth. They can be thought of very much like artificial fingernails.
When are veneers used?
When the teeth are discoloured or stained, the thin facing of porcelain can greatly improve the shade and uniformity of the colour.
When the teeth are poorly shaped, e.g. if they are too narrow with gaps between the teeth, veneers of porcelain can help to make the teeth look broader and help to close the gaps.
How are veneers done?
In many cases, the dentist may need to shave off a little of the front surface of the tooth to make space for the new veneer. This can often be done without an anaesthetic.
Impressions, or moulds, of the teeth will be taken for the laboratory technician to make the new veneer out of porcelain.
About a week later, the veneers will be placed on the teeth and checked for colour and fit. If satisfactory, the veneers will then be cemented on to the tooth.
How much do veneers cost? The cost will vary according to materials used, the complexity of the case and the skills of your dentist. Please consult your dentist to get a quotation after examination and diagnosis.
Are there cheaper alternatives to veneers?
Yes. Tooth-coloured filling-material could be used however porcelain veneers give much better colour and smoothness.
What about crowns?
Crowns cover the entire tooth and are usually done if there is extensive damage to the tooth. Veneers are more conservative because very little of the tooth needs to be trimmed.
What are the disadvantages of veneers?
Veneers are made of porcelain so they can crack or chip, just like natural teeth. One would need to be careful not to bite on ice or bones. If cracks or chips occur, then the whole veneer will need to be replaced.
How do I take care of the veneer?
Brush and floss daily to ensure that the margins of the veneer are kept clean. Do not bite on hard foods that may crack the porcelain. Go for regular dental checkups so that any little defects or problems can be detected and treated quickly.
Impressions, or moulds, of the teeth will be taken for the laboratory technician to make the new veneer out of porcelain.
What about crowns?