Veneers are used to cover and reshape a tooth, usually a front tooth in the smile. The thin veneer covers the entire front surface of the tooth to improve the aesthetics and sometimes the position of the tooth.
We construct veneers out of tooth coloured composites or porcelain. Composite veneers tend to be a temporary measure or perhaps even a trial to show how we can change teeth. It is usual to use porcelain or Emax for permanent veneers in conjunction with our dental technician.
We are fortunate to work with an award winning dental technician whose ceramic work is of the highest quality. This ensures we can match in with existing teeth or achieve a new aesthetic result that provides you with a smile to be proud of.
Dental veneers, once built in the laboratory, are then fixed into place with special adhesives permanently. Veneers will give many years of service when looked after and maintained.
There are 2 main types of veneers; porcelain and composite. In most cases, if you have porcelain veneers fitted this does require some re-shaping of your natural teeth using a drill before the veneer can be fitted on top, which is an irreversible process. However, when the treatment is done correctly, the drilling is minimal. You can get minimal or no prep porcelain veneers but your teeth need to be fairly straight to start with, and require minimal adjustments.
Porcelain veneers are extremely durable and can last for many years, usually 10-15 years, if you take good care of them using a good oral hygiene home care routine. I’ve got porcelain veneers, done here at the practice by shi and have had them for over 10 years and have not had any problems with them yet. Composite veneers won’t generally last as long, and should last between 4 and 8 years.
Porcelain veneers will resist everyday staining from cigarette smoking, tea, coffee, red wine and other dark or richly coloured liquids or spices where as composite veneers can discolour and stain over time. Although with modern materials this is minimal.
Composite veneers will need to be refreshed or replaced more frequently than porcelain veneers, as the resin material used is not as strong as porcelain. Porcelain is extremely hard wearing and durable, and therefore less likely to get damaged. With either option you need to look after the veneers in order to reduce the likelihood of damage. Therefore, you should avoid putting too much pressure on them.
Your dentist will examine your teeth at the initial consultation and must conclude that your teeth are strong and healthy before starting treatment. They will also need to be satisfied that there is a good level or oral hygiene. Tooth decay, gum disease or evidence of grinding are all things which may make treatment less viable. This is the case with both porcelain and composite veneers.
If you or your dentist decide veneers aren’t the right option for you, then there are other procedures such as crowns, bridges, implants or orthodontic treatments that can all help you achieve the perfect smile. Further information about these treatments can be found here:https://dentalbeautystjohns.co.uk/contact/