What are veneers?
Veneers are a thin layer of tooth coloured porcelain material that covers your own tooth. Veneers can hide discoloured teeth, chipped or heavily restored (filled) teeth and mishaped (crooked) teeth.
What happens during my tooth veneer procedure?
You will have a consultation with your dentist to discuss any concerns you may have with the look (appearance) of your teeth. This will be your opportunity to point out which areas in your mouth you are concerned with. At this consultation your dentist will discuss with you what smile outcome you are likely to achieve and if veneers are the right treatment course for you.
Also, you will be given an indication of the cost of your veneers in a detailed treatment plan.
The process of preparing teeth for veneers is a minimally invasive procedure. Your dentist may anaesthetise (numb) the tooth and remove a thin layer of tooth surface to provide room for the porcelain veneer. This is to prevent your new veneer looking bulky. An impression is then taken, and a further appointment is made to have your new look veneers fitted. Once back from the dental laboratory the porcelain veneers are tryed in to ensure you are happy with your new smile. The porcelain veneer is then bonded onto your tooth.
Aftercare of tooth veneers
You will have to care for your new veneers just like your own teeth. This involves brushing and flossing regularly to ensure your veneers remain free of dental caries (tooth decay) and periodontal disease (gum disease). Veneers last around about 5-10 years depending on the care and maintenance of them. Regular check-up examinations and hygiene visits will ensure they remain in tip top condition.
