How do veneers work & how are they fitted?

Say cheese!

When it comes to ‘saying cheese’ in front of the camera, many of us feel less than confident about smiling, for one very good reason: our teeth. Being worried about displaying teeth that are discoloured, stained or imperfect in other ways can stand in the way of looking our best and feeling our most confident.

If that’s the case for you, veneers can be one of the most reliable, effective and long-lasting solutions available. Veneers are thin layers of porcelain which are bonded to the front surface of your teeth.

When are veneers used?

Your dentist may suggest a veneerIn the construction of crowns or pontics, a layer of tooth-colored material usually, but not limited to, composite, porcelain, ceramic or acrylic resin, attached to the surface by direct fusion, cemen or set of veneers in order to:

•    Cover a single discoloured or stained tooth
•    Lighten your front teeth
•    Make a chipped tooth look whole again
•    Close small gaps where braces aren’t suitable

There’s a high level of skill involved in creating perfect veneers, so it’s important to visit a dentist who is experienced in veneer work to make sure that you get a natural and long-lasting result. You can ask your local dentist whether they offer veneers or go to a well-known specialist group such as Colosseum Dental to find a local practice providing this treatment.

A good dentist will first hold a consultation with you to check that a veneer is the right treatment for you and will meet your expectations. You will then have an impression taken of your tooth, which will be used to make the veneer. The veneer will be individually designed and hand-made to match the shape, colour and contour of your natural tooth. 

There’s sometimes a perception that the process of fitting veneers is intrusive and unpleasant but it’s actually very straightforward and shouldn’t be painful, although you may be given a local anaesthetic as a precaution. It involves taking off a thin layer (about 1mm) of your tooth’s enamelHard calcified tissue covering dentin of the crown of tooth. so that when the veneer is attached to your tooth, it fits seamlessly without changing the overall size of your tooth.

How should I care for my veneers?

Once you have veneers, you can care for them pretty much as you do with your normal teeth. This means making sure that you:

•    Clean and floss them well
•    Avoid biting down on any hard foods
•    Visit your dentist and hygienist for regular check-ups

Your sparkling new veneered teeth should last you for many years but if damage does ever occur, they can be replaced in the same way.

Learn more about veneers and find dental practices local to you offering high quality veneer treatments.

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