VENEERS
Chipped or damaged teeth, discolourations and gaps between your teeth can change the way you feel. If your self-confidence is affected by the appearance of your teeth, you may be considering dental veneers. Dental veneers are a type of cosmetic dentistry that cover your existing teeth to hide common problems with a new, whiter and brighter finish. We can offer advice on whether dental veneers are a suitable solution and the options available to you.
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You might be interested in dental veneers if:
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There are two kinds of dental veneers.
Porcelain veneers are long-lasting, natural-looking teeth crafted in the finest detail to look just like natural teeth by specialists in a dental laboratory. These are usually fitted in two or three appointments and require some preparation for your existing teeth. For example, a small amount of your existing enamel needs to be removed to adhere the veneers directly to your teeth.
Composite veneers can be applied in one visit. Layers of resin are applied directly to the tooth, masking any damaged enamel, which is then sculpted to the correct shape and size to look just like natural teeth. Composite veneers are a good option if you have stained or slightly damaged teeth, such as a chipped or cracked tooth.
Composite veneers can be applied in one visit. Layers of resin are applied directly to the tooth, masking any damaged enamel, which is then sculpted to the correct shape and size to look just like natural teeth. Composite veneers are a good option if you have stained or slightly damaged teeth, such as a chipped or cracked tooth.
What are dental veneers made from?
Porcelain is a type of glass. This method of teeth coating is not as susceptible to stains as composite veneers, and their overall appearance is also brighter and shinier. Composite veneers are made from a tooth-coloured resin (similar to that used for tooth fillings) and are close to plastic in nature. As resin is porous, it is sensitive to stains. Therefore, if you have composite veneers fitted, you should regularly have them professionally polished.
How long do dental veneers last?
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Dental veneers are a durable way to improve your smile. The lifetime of your veneers is subject to your dental care routine, your lifestyle and the kind of veneer you have had fitted. Well-cared-for porcelain veneers will last between 10 and 20 years, while composite veneers should last four to eight years. Make sure that you continue to see your dentist regularly. Good communication between you and your dentist will ensure that your veneers last as long as possible and that your natural teeth and gums remain healthy.
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How do I get dental veneers?
Porcelain veneers are an irreversible dental procedure, so it’s important that you speak to your dentist if you considering them. The dentist will discuss all your options and thoroughly examine your teeth and gums. If you are having porcelain veneers fitted, then this will usually take two appointments, as the veneers are created to your unique specifications in a dental laboratory.
During your first visit, your dentist will clean your teeth (or tooth) and note the correct shade for your veneers. A small amount of enamel is removed at this stage to adhere your veneers to your natural teeth. An impression of your teeth is then made to send to the laboratory while a temporary veneer is provided. Once your custom-made porcelain veneers arrive at our practice, you are ready to have them permanently fitted. Teeth are cleaned and polished, and the new porcelain veneers are fitted using a special adhesive that requires light-curing for at least 60 seconds. After this, any excess material is removed, and your teeth are tidied and polished to ensure the perfect, natural finish.
As composite veneers are moulded directly onto your teeth, these can be applied in one visit, so you can walk away with a new smile the same day. After your teeth have been prepared, a resin is applied and moulded to your teeth.
During your first visit, your dentist will clean your teeth (or tooth) and note the correct shade for your veneers. A small amount of enamel is removed at this stage to adhere your veneers to your natural teeth. An impression of your teeth is then made to send to the laboratory while a temporary veneer is provided. Once your custom-made porcelain veneers arrive at our practice, you are ready to have them permanently fitted. Teeth are cleaned and polished, and the new porcelain veneers are fitted using a special adhesive that requires light-curing for at least 60 seconds. After this, any excess material is removed, and your teeth are tidied and polished to ensure the perfect, natural finish.
As composite veneers are moulded directly onto your teeth, these can be applied in one visit, so you can walk away with a new smile the same day. After your teeth have been prepared, a resin is applied and moulded to your teeth.
How do I care for my dental veneers?
About one to two weeks after your dental veneers have been fitted, your dentist will see you for a review. This is to make sure that you are happy with the look and feel and to examine your gums and answer any queries you may have.
Treat your dental veneers as you would your own teeth by brushing with non-abrasive toothpaste and flossing twice a day. Dental veneers, just like your enamel, can become stained. You can keep them looking pearly white by limiting the amount of black coffee you drink, giving up smoking and avoiding foods that may stain. Porcelain veneers are less likely to stain. But you should be careful when eating particularly hard foods – porcelain is a kind of glass, so it is also brittle while strong.
Dental veneers will usually need to be replaced at some point. But you can ensure that they last for as long as possible by keeping up a good oral hygiene routine. By visiting your dentist for a check-up at least once a year and booking regular appointments with us, you will ensure that your veneers stay in the best possible condition
Treat your dental veneers as you would your own teeth by brushing with non-abrasive toothpaste and flossing twice a day. Dental veneers, just like your enamel, can become stained. You can keep them looking pearly white by limiting the amount of black coffee you drink, giving up smoking and avoiding foods that may stain. Porcelain veneers are less likely to stain. But you should be careful when eating particularly hard foods – porcelain is a kind of glass, so it is also brittle while strong.
Dental veneers will usually need to be replaced at some point. But you can ensure that they last for as long as possible by keeping up a good oral hygiene routine. By visiting your dentist for a check-up at least once a year and booking regular appointments with us, you will ensure that your veneers stay in the best possible condition