A PICTURE PERFECT SMILE
What Are Veneers?
Veneering a tooth means to cover its facial or front surface.
It is actually very similar to placing acrylic fingernails on top of natural nails except they are permanently in place. Veneers are used to enhance shapes and colours of teeth as well as to close spaces between teeth and to cover up significant stains such as those caused by tetracycline. It can also be used to repair chipped or broken teeth or even to cover up unsightly stains. They can also improve the alignment of your teeth to even out an uneven smile. They require only minimal reduction of the tooth surface so they are a more conservative treatment than crowns.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN
Porcelain and Composite Veneers?
There are two types of veneers: Porcelain and Composite. A Porcelain veneer is stronger, resists staining and reflects light. They are among the most natural looking restorations available. Porcelain veneers can be used in place of crowns for a more conservative and natural looking smile.
A Composite veneer is quicker and cheaper but is not quite as aesthetic or long lasting.
THE PROCESS
What does a Porcelain Veneer involve?
During the first visit, a local anaesthetic is used and the tooth or teeth are reduced by approximately 0.5mm – 2.0mm. An impression is then taken and sent to a dental ceramicist for fabrication which usually takes one week. A temporary restoration may be necessary and there may be slight sensitivity to hot and cold during this period.
At the second visit, a local anaesthetic may be used in seating the veneers. After thoroughly cleaning and preparing the teeth, the veneers are placed with a resin material and cured or hardened with a special curing light.
THE PROCESS
What does a Composite Veneer involve?
Composite veneers only require a single visit.
Unlike porcelain veneers, composite veneers require only minimal or no tooth reduction thus making it a very conservative procedure. It usually requires no anaesthetic. Composite veneers can be touched up and even re-bonded over time as necessary.
