Veneers
Dental Veneers (also referred to as porcelain veneers or porcelain laminates) are thin tooth colored shells that are custom made for individual patients and placed on the frontal surface of the teeth to improve its appearance. They are made from porcelain or resin composites but porcelain has superior stain resisting properties. However, the type of veneer appropriate for an individual can be correctly determined only by a dentist.
What are dental veneers used for?
Dental Veneers (or Porcelain Veneers) are used in a variety of cases such as:
- Individual discolored teeth
- Worn, chipped or fractured teeth.
- Uneven and irregularly shaped teeth.
- Widely spaced teeth
What is the procedure in placement of a dental veneer?
- Diagnosis and Treatment planning
- Preparation
- Etching
- Placement and Bonding
Diagnosis and Treatment planning:
This involves the determining whether it is appropriate for you to get a Dental Veneer and discuss its limitations with you.
Preparation:
This involves scraping the outer layer of the tooth up to the thickness of veneer that is to be placed. A model of the patients tooth is made. Repeated color adjustments might be required to achieve a suitable color.
Etching:
The next time the patient is called at the clinic is for the actual veneer placement. Now the dentist cleans and polishes the tooth surface on which the veneer is to be placed. The dentist then uses an acid to etch your teeth i.e it creates a roughened tooth surface which improves its bonding to the veneer.
Placement:
The Veneer will be placed on the tooth surface with a special tooth colored material called composite used for attachment. A few final adjustments may be necessary and a couple further visits are required by the patient to ensure a normal response of the gums towards the veneer.
