Veneers

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Veneers

Many people can feel self-conscious about their teeth, and so they will seek a solution to make themselves feel more confident and positive about their smile. Veneers can be the solution to any problems you might have such as gaps or crooked, uneven or protruding teeth. Continue reading for more information on veneers and how they are placed.

What is a veneer?

A veneer is a new front surface for a tooth, custom made from porcelain or composite which is used to align crowding or protruding teeth, close gaps or lighten tooth colour.

The strength and the appearance of veneers rival that of normal tooth as veneers can last up to ten years. The healthier your lifestyle, the longer your veneers will last, and the longer you can enjoy that natural smile. Teeth grinding, biting your nails, smoking and acidic drinks can have a negative influence on the state and durability of your veneers. Just like with a normal tooth, the dentist will always be able to repair or replace a damaged or discoloured veneer.

What are veneers made of?

Veneers are made from either composite or porcelain which both have their advantages. A composite veneer is easier to place as the dentist won’t have to trim your tooth as much to fit the veneer. In addition, composite veneers are also cheaper and look better. This is why most dentist recommend getting composite veneers rather than porcelain veneers.

How are veneers placed?

A composite veneer is placed as follows:

  • Choosing the colour. If necessary the dentist can mix several colours to get the best possible result.
  • Trimming the tooth, if necessary. The dentist might have to trim back a small layer to make space for the veneer.
  • Before the veneer is placed, your tooth is treated with a special type of acid. In addition an adhesive layer is placed on the tooth on which a thin layer of composite is added.
  • When the composite is applied to your tooth, it’s still soft. This allows the dentist time to shape it in order to get the best and most natural looking result. When the veneer has the right shape, it’s hardened.
  • The final step of the treatment is to edge and polish the composite to ensure complete customer satisfaction.

A porcelain veneer requires a different treatment in which the following steps are taken:

  • The first step is to determine the colour of your porcelain veneer. You can choose a colour from a colour chart.
  • To ensure that the veneer will fit the tooth, a layer of your tooth will have to be trimmed back as a porcelain veneer is at least half a millimetre thick.
  • The dentist will make a mould of your tooth which is then send to the dental laboratory where they prepare the veneer.
  • Fitting the veneer. The dentist will apply a special type of acid followed by a layer of adhesive substance to your tooth. Your porcelain veneer is then fitted on the tooth in a matter of seconds.

A composite veneer can be placed in a single treatment. This is different for a porcelain veneer as it has to be custom made in a laboratory. This means you will have to visit our dental practice twice if you choose to go with a porcelain veneer.

Frequently asked questions

We often receive questions about veneers. The most frequent questions are answered below.

What are the costs of having a veneer placed?

The costs of veneers are dependent on several factors such as the amount of veneers you want placed or the material of your veneers. Due to the fact that porcelain veneers are hand made in a laboratory they are more expensive than their composite counterparts.

Before the start of the treatment the dentist will always inform you about the costs of having veneers placed

How does a veneer feel?

A veneer feels just like a normal tooth but it could be that you need to get used to how it feels because the veneer has changed the shape of your tooth.

Can I eat everything when I have a veneer?

You can, however we do advise you to avoid using the veneer to bite into hard objects such as pens. In addition, veneers should not be used to rip tape.

Do my veneers require extra maintenance?

No, veneers do not require any additional maintenance. It is however important to brush your teeth and your veneers well. We advise you to use a soft toothbrush when brushing and in addition also floss for an optimal result.

More information or would you like to make an appointment? Contact us.

Are you looking for more information about veneers? Then we are happy to answer any and all questions you might have by telephone or in person during the initial interview with your dentist.

Would you like to make an appointment? Then fill out the appointment form on the website.

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