Dental veneer is a wafer-thin,
tooth-colored layer of material placed over the frontal teeth. This is used to
improve the appearance by restoring the size, shape and length of teeth.
If a patient wants to improve the smile, dental veneers are a simple
option. They look like natural teeth.
A dentist may offer dental
veneers to correct a wide range of dental issues, such as:
·
Discolored teeth that can’t be
corrected by whitening (root canal treatment, tetracycline or other drugs,
excessive fluoride causes the discoloration of the tooth)
·
Worn teeth
·
Chipped or broken teeth
·
Misaligned or crooked teeth
·
Irregularly shaped teeth, which
can be restored by veneers
·
Veneers used to close the gaps
between the frontal teeth
The dentist will help with the
choice of veneer material:
·
Porcelain veneers are strong
and lasts long, more resistant than composite resin veneers. They look like
natural teeth and mimic the light reflecting properties, resistant to the
stains.
·
Composite resin veneers can be
repaired easily and quickly, although they are less resistant than porcelain
veneers. Composite resin veneers cost less and a few visits to the dentist are
needed.
Compared to the crowns, less
enamel is removed when veneers are placed. The veneers are a good option for
patients, who want to change a little the shape of the tooth. If the
crookedness is too much, crowns may be required.
During the first appointment
the dentist decides whether veneers are appropriate choice for a patient. The
teeth and gums must be healthy; any diseases and decays will be treated before
placing veneers. If a patient clenches or grinds the teeth, veneers may chip or
break easily. Special plastic guards may be suggested to wear while sleeping.
The dentist takes X-Ray to detect any issues.
If the teeth are healthy, the
dentist prepares teeth for veneers. A local injection is made to numb the area.
After the anesthetics work, the dentist removes a thin layer of frontal surface
(the amount is nearly equal to the thickness of the veneer). He or she makes
impressions of the tooth or teeth and sends them to the laboratory, where the
veneers will be prepared in 2-4 weeks. During that period, the patient may wear
temporary veneers. With the help of the dentist the patient chooses the appropriate
shade for the future veneers.
At the next appointment the
dentist fixes the prepared veneers to check the size and the color. After he or
she achieves the proper fit, the veneers are finally placed on the tooth.
Regular dental visits are a must for keeping the teeth healthy. It is possible
for veneers to come loose over time (7-15 years depend on the patient). The
dentist will offer to place the new one or maybe even choose the new way of
treatment.
Dental veneers require no
special care, but an oral hygiene must be kept. Every day brushing, flossing,
and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash are recommended.