Dental veneers: features of application and care

Aesthetic dental problems confuse many people. As a result of nutrition, natural wear and tear, injuries and bad habits, the color of the teeth can change, they can wear out, deform, etc. In such situations, aesthetic dentistry comes to the rescue, one of the tools of which are veneers. About installing veneers on teeth, the purposes of their use, the process of installing veneers, caring for them and other most frequently asked questions estet-portal.com will tell in this article. First, let's understand what veneers are and what they are for.

What are veneers and when are they used?

Teeth veneers – these are lamellar shells, individually made from tooth-colored materials, designed to cover the front surface of the teeth in order to improve their appearance. Veneers are attached to the front of a tooth and change its color, shape, size or length. Dental veneers can be made from porcelain or composite materials. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, which should be discussed with the dentist.

What problems are veneers used for?

Veneers are usually used in case of:

• discoloration of teeth due to root canal treatment, tetracycline or other medications, fillings that change the color of the tooth, or other causes;
• tooth wear;
• cracked or damaged teeth;
• Misaligned or misaligned teeth;
• large gaps between teeth.

Teeth veneer procedure

To install veneers, you will need three trips to the dentist – one for consultation and two for installation. The installation process for veneers is described below. At the same time, veneers can be installed on several teeth at the same time.

1. Diagnosis and treatment planning. At this stage, the patient takes an active part and explains to the doctor what results he wants to achieve. The dentist, in turn, must ensure that veneers are an acceptable option for the patient. Your doctor may also take an impression of your teeth.
2. Preparing. To install a veneer on a tooth, the dentist will need to remove approximately 0.5 mm of enamel from the surface of the tooth. This may require a local anesthetic to numb the area being treated. Next, the dentist will need to make a model or cast of your tooth (or teeth). It will take 1-2 weeks to make veneers. In case of urgency, temporary veneers can be installed for the patient.
3. Fix. The dentist will pre-install the prepared veneer for a while to evaluate its color and shape. If necessary, the doctor will correct the shape and / or color of the veneer to be installed, clean and prepare the tooth surface for better fixation of the veneer on the tooth. After the veneer is placed, the dentist will shine a special beam of light on it, which will activate the chemicals in the cement and cause it to harden. After a week, you can return to the dentist, who will check the reaction of the gums to the veneer and its location.

Benefits of dental veneers

• natural tooth color;
• Gum tissue tolerates porcelain well;
• porcelain veneers are stain resistant;
• The color of the porcelain veneer can be matched to make a dark tooth appear lighter;
• veneers do not require significant adjustment before the procedure.

Disadvantages of dental veneers

• the process of installing veneers on the teeth is irreversible;
• veneers are more expensive than composite bonding;
• if cracks form on the veneers, they cannot be restored;
• probability of increased tooth sensitivity;
• after the veneers are installed, their color cannot be changed;
• teeth with veneers can still be affected by caries;
• veneers – not the best option for people with diseased teeth (cavities, gum disease), loose teeth or lack of enamel on the tooth surface;
• People who suffer from bruxism and have a habit of clenching their teeth are not recommended for veneers due to the high likelihood of formation  cracks on them.

How long will veneers last on teeth?

Typically, the service life of veneers is 5 – 10 years, after which they must be replaced.

Do I need special care for veneers?

No special care is required for veneers. It is necessary to monitor oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing is carried out as usual. Your dentist may also recommend minimizing foods and drinks that stain your teeth and veneers.