Cosmetic Dentistry

In which cases are ceramic veneers recommended?

 

Veneers are thin ceramic plates (between 0.3mm and 0.8mm) which are pasted to the tooth’s surface for perfect adhesion. The veneers are made in the laboratory and are based on impressions made by the dentist. They are able to:

• Create a perfect smile

• Resolve problems of shape, abrasion, tooth discolouration

• Reduce or eliminate unsightly inter-dental spaces

 

Do the teeth need to be prepared before veneers can be fitted?

For the placement of veneers (with a maximum thickness of 0.8mm), a small amount of preparation of the teeth is required. This is performed under local anaesthesia.

 

While there is a small risk of loss, the physiochemical adhesion process creates a strong bond between the tooth and veneer, which greatly reduces any chance of loss.

 

In general, two sessions are needed. In the first the teeth are prepared and impressions are taken in order to produce the veneers. In the second the permanent ceramic veneers are positioned. There is usually a period of around 4 to 8 days between the first and second appointments, during which time temporary veneers are worn.

 

Although ceramic is a very durable material, the dental support is not as hard-wearing. Therefore, it is generally considered necessary to change a ceramic veneer every 10 to 15 years. This prevents any alteration of the support structures which could result in unsightly changes. For this reason, good, gentle (non aggressive) oral hygiene is strongly recommended.

 

As with our natural teeth, certain precautions should be taken, for example, avoiding hard sweets, nuts in shells, ice and biting meat off the bone.

In short, you can eat anything that common sense allows!

 

If it is only a surface crack, then a simple polish should be sufficient. However, if the fracture is deeper, the veneer will have to be replaced.

 

Nothing but good, gentle oral hygiene. When the veneers are fitted, you will be given general advice to keep the veneers in good condition. An appointment for an annual review will also be arranged.