Dental veneers have become an increasingly popular dental treatment to improve the appearance of our patient’s teeth. Small imperfections in your smile such as a wonky, chipped or discoloured tooth are corrected with this kind of treatment. If you’re looking to achieve a perfect smile, veneers might be the treatment you’ve been looking for. Here’s our complete guide to help you decide!
What are dental veneers?
Dental veneers are wafer thin, custom-made shells which cover the surface of your tooth. They come in a number of shapes, colours and sizes which we will choose depending on what needs correcting. Veneers are made from either porcelain, which is more expensive and superior in appearance, or composite which is often used to deal with smaller cosmetic issues. Both materials give an authentic look, so your perfect smile will feel completely natural.
What is the dental veneer process?
Our patients often choose dental veneers because they are the best way to great-looking teeth without major dental surgery. The process varies slightly between porcelain and composite veneer treatment, we’ll start with porcelain veneers:
- The problem is assessed and the shape, size and colour of the veneer is chosen
- An imprint of the area is made to ensure a precise fitting
- The veneers are made by a dental lab over one to two weeks
- A local anaesthetic is applied to reduce any pain
- A small section of enamel is cut away from the area to apply the veneer effectively
- The veneer is applied with a dental bonding agent
- Done!
Composite veneers are applied this way:
- The problem is assessed and the shape, size and colour of the veneer is chosen
- We create a composite solution while you wait, this will be used to make the veneer
- We craft the solution into shape to correct the cosmetic imperfection
- The veneer is cured with a special light which sets it into place
- We polish the veneer to provide a premium look and feel
- Done!
Porcelain and composite veneers are slightly different but they both get rid of the pesky visual imperfections keeping you from your perfect smile!
What are the benefits?
Dental veneers are a fantastic option for great-looking teeth without undergoing major dental surgery. They provide solutions to misaligned and chipped teeth, fill in any gaps between teeth, as well as providing white shells for discolouring. If treated correctly post-treatment, i.e. brushing twice a week and flossing when possible, they can be long-lasting too: porcelain veneers can last up to 15 years and composite veneers up to seven years.
Many people find that the imperfections in their teeth give them a lack of confidence. Dental veneers are a great way to create the smile that you’re proud to show off to the world!
