The demand for cosmetic dental treatment in the UK has grown exponentially over the years. And it’s not just the teenagers and young adults seeking cosmetic treatment; adults are equally interested in improving their smile and social appeal. Thanks to contemporary cosmetic dentistry, even the most complicated aesthetic issues can be solved easily, and one of the most powerful tools used by cosmetic dentists is dental veneers.
If you or a loved one has cosmetic facial flaws that affect their smile and appearance, veneers are an excellent option for their treatment. But, if you want to know more about dental veneers, this article is for you. So, continue reading to learn everything you need to know about veneers and how they can help you achieve your dream smile.
What Is Dental Veneer Treatment?
According to the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, a veneer is a thin shell made of composite resins or porcelain that is bonded to the front surfaces of damaged teeth to restore various aesthetic, structural, and functional flaws. Every day, dentists bond hundreds of veneers to broken teeth worldwide to improve smiles and restore dental function.
What Are The Various Types Of Dental Veneers?
Depending on their material, there are two main types of veneers: porcelain and composite veneers.
- Porcelain Veneers – these veneers are made of tooth-coloured dental porcelains. The fabrication of porcelain-based veneers is an intricate process. Therefore, it is carried out in the dental laboratory. The prepared veneers are then bonded to the teeth using adhesive. In some cases, porcelain veneers can also be prepared in the dental laboratory using the CAD/CAM technology.
- Composite Veneers – these veneers are made of tooth-coloured composite resins, similar to the materials used for dental bonding. Composite veneers can sometimes be prepared at the dental chairside and offer a quicker restorative option than porcelain veneers. However, composite veneers are not as durable or stain-resistant as porcelain-based veneers.
What Is The Function Of A Veneer?
Dentists use dental veneers to treat various restorative and cosmetic dental problems, such as:
- To restore the aesthetics of fractured or chipped teeth
- To mask permanent teeth stains
- To cosmetically close gaps between teeth
- To cosmetically fix mild tooth misalignment
- To restore the shape of congenitally deformed teeth
- For complete smile makeovers
How Do Dental Veneers Work?
Dental veneers are ultra thin shells that are bonded to the front (visible) surfaces of the teeth. Their function is to mask underlying cosmetic defects and restore optimal tooth structure and function.
How Do They Put Veneers On Teeth?
The process of getting veneers is simple and is typically completed within 2-3 sittings. First, your dentist will remove a thin layer of the outer enamel of your teeth. This is done to create space for bonding the veneers. Don’t worry, your teeth will not become sensitive as a very thin layer will be removed. This process is know as tooth preparation.
After tooth preparation, your dentist will make impressions of your teeth and send them to the dental laboratory for fabrication. After a few weeks, when the prepared veneers are received back from the laboratory, your dentist will first try on your veneers without bonding. If everything goes well, they will bond your veneers to the prepared teeth using adhesive. Congratulations on your brand-new smile!
What Are Some Long-Term Consequences Of Veneers?
With proper care, dental veneers can last for a long time. However, optimal oral hygiene must be maintained to prevent unwanted staining of the veneers. Generally, composite veneers stain more readily than porcelain veneers. Similarly, the clinical life of veneers can be enhanced by avoiding sticky foods or directly biting on hard foods with your veneered teeth.
Are There Health Or Negative Implications Of Dental Veneers?
As discussed earlier, oral hygiene is essential for long-term survival and stain prevention in dental veneers. But, more importantly, poor oral hygiene around veneers can cause secondary tooth decay – a process in which tooth decay forms around the margin of the veneers or within the supporting tooth. Such a situation can be easily prevented through brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkup visits.
What Are The Pros And Cons Of Dental Veneers?
Pros of Dental Veneers:
- Longer-lasting than composite bonding
- Stain lesser than composite bonding
- Do not require extensive tooth removal compared to dental crowns
- Dislodged veneers can sometimes be rebonded.
Cons of Dental Veneers:
- More expensive than composite bonding
- Improper veneer fabrication can lead to secondary tooth decay
- Veneers get stained over time.
Is It A Bad Idea To Veneer Healthy Teeth?
Dental veneers are needed to restore the esthetics and structure of damaged teeth. So, if a healthy tooth does not have any structural or cosmetic imperfections, there is no point in sacrificing its healthy tooth structure for veneer bonding.
How Long Do Veneers Last Before They Need To Be Replaced?
The clinical life of dental veneers depends on various factors, such as the material, the dentist’s skill, oral hygiene maintenance, and diet care. However, on average, veneers can last up to five years before they need replacement or repairs.
The aesthetic outcome of dental veneer treatment highly depends on the dentist’s skills. So, if you’re considering a complete smile makeover in Dublin, your best option is to visit Pembroke Dental. We provide dental general and specialist services to our esteemed customers at affordable rates and in a relaxing environment. So, book an appointment with us today and walk away with a beautiful and healthy smile you genuinely deserve.
