VENEERS
What are veneers?
Dental veneers are extremely thin, custom-manufactured shells meant to cover the front facing surface of your teeth. They are generally for aesthetic reasons. These shells are bonded to the front of the teeth which allows the dentist to alter the color, length and shape of the tooth when it is seen from the front.
Dental veneers are generally made out of porcelain or from resin. Porcelain veneers are better at resisting stains and can mimic more closely the ability to reflect light that natural teeth have. Our dentist will guide you through the best choice of veneer material that best suits you.
Why do I need veneers done?
Veneers are usually used to correct:
- Discolored teeth – teeth that have been discolored by root canal treatments and drugs such as tetracycline.
- Worn down teeth
- Chipped teeth
- Misaligned teeth
What does the process of getting veneers look like?
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Diagnosis & X-rays
You will first consult with our dentist so that they can determine whether or not you are a suitable candidate for veneers. Our dentist might decide to take x-rays of your mouth or make moulds (impressions) of your mouth and teeth. -
Preparation & Modelling
Our dentist will reshape the tooth surface in order to make space for the veneer. This means removing an equivalent amount of enamel from the tooth as the veneer itself. This might require the use of anesthesia. The dentist will then take an impression of your tooth and send it to the lab in order for the veneer to be made. Generally, this takes around 2-4 weeks to complete. -
Bonding
Our dentist will fit the veneer to your teeth. He or she will ensure that the fit and color matches perfectly with the rest of your teeth. After cleaning, a special cement will be put on the veneer and it will be placed on your tooth. Your bite will be adjusted as well.
What type of anaesthetic is used?
Local anaesthesia is used during the preparation phase.
How long does the procedure take?
Fitting the veneers usually takes about 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on how many veneers are being placed.
The lifespan of a single veneer can be anywhere between 7 – 15 years. The veneers will generally have to be reviewed and possibly replaced after this.
What to expect after the operation? Is there any aftercare?
At times, some initial sensitivity may be experienced after veneers are placed. Continue to observe good oral hygiene and dental care, including brushing and flossing.