DENTAL VENEERS

Porcelain, laminate veneers are the most realistic restorations available.

Veneers can be used to restore chipped, worn, discoloured or mis-shapen teeth as well as being very effective in closing spaces between teeth.

Their placement involves very conservative preparation of the front surface of the tooth. Temporary veneers, to preview shape and colour, are placed before the final veneers are bonded onto the teeth.

A smile makeover using porcelain laminate veneers

Porcelain laminate veneers are wafer-thin shells of ceramic material which are bonded to the front of teeth.

Porcelain veneers are placed to mask discolouration, brighten teeth,

change shape or change arrangement of teeth.

Veneers are highly resistant to permanent staining and they provide a much more conservative approach to improving a smile.

Veneers will last for many years when the techniques involved are performed properly.

The stages to achieving a new smile are as follows:

Diagnosis and treatment planning

A full consultation takes place where the patient and the dentist are equally involved in the decision making. Photographs are taken and all fees discussed.

Impression

A short appointment is necessary to take an impression of your existing smile. This impression is sent to the laboratory and used to make a template from which the dentist creates your new smile. This is called a wax-up.

Visual diagnostic try-in

This optional appointment can be helpful to some patients who wish to preview the finished result before embarking upon any treatment. It involves using plastic material to copy the wax-up and transfer this to the patient's mouth.

Preparation

Approximately 7-10 days after the impression is taken your teeth are lightly buffed and contoured to allow for the small added thickness of the veneers. Temporary veneers are fitted. These temporaries are in plastic material but, in every other respect, are identical to the finished result giving the patient a chance to preview the final smile.

Review

Approximately 4-7 days later the patient returns to discuss their findings. Any adjustments can be made at this time. (There may be as

many review appointments as necessary until the patient is happy.)

Placement

Approximately 7-10 days later the patient returns to have the permanent, porcelain veneers fitted.

This process, from start to finish, can take as little as 3 weeks although 4-6 weeks is more usual.

Early on in the process the patient will see the ceramist so that he/she can choose the colour they desire.

Hygiene appointments may be required if there are any gum problems.

Maintenance

A review appointment will take place 1-2 weeks after the placement of the veneers to ensure that everything is looking great. A thorough home care regime of brushing and inter-dental cleaning is necessary to ensure the longevity of your veneers. This is no more onerous than that necessary to preserve the health of natural teeth.