Porcelain veneers
Porcelain veneers are very thin, computer designed tooth- coloured shells, made from pressed porcelain technology and custom glazed, and which are seamlessly bonded to, and cover the front of prepared and sometimes even unprepared teeth. We are able to analyse how much space is required for the veneers using dental software and 3D printing of models. Veneers are used to repair cracks, chips, uneven shape, breakage or discolouration. Porcelain veneers cover the front surface area of teeth and serve a functional, as well as cosmetic purpose by protecting the outer layer of a damaged tooth. They are a more conservative treatment than a crown and can often be used as an alternative, if the underlying tooth is strong and healthy.
Porcelain resists staining, keeping teeth beautiful and natural looking for a long time to come.
Sometimes we are unable to place porcelain veneers if there is damage to the inside of the tooth, needing more strength and protection in the bite, or if the tooth has gone very grey. In this case a three quarter or porcelain crown would be placed for greater strength and better masking of the shade, and perhaps whitening may be recommended to match in with a lighter base shade.
porcelain veneers / very high aesthetic demands / leila haywood
cases where veneers may be used
Close gaps between teeth, that cannot be closed with braces
Correct teeth that are too short or too long
Correct crooked teeth
Conceal staining & discolouration
Repair worn and chipped teeth
Replace old porcelain veneers
If the teeth have a good shape and are misaligned - it might be worth considering Invisalign
differences between porcelain and resin veneers
Veneers can be made from porcelain or from composite resin materials. Resin veneers require removal of less of the tooth surface, and sometimes no removal at all, before placement. It depends on the bite, dental health, condition of the teeth, regular dental checks and lifestyle habits, as to whether they will be suitable.
If the entire front of the tooth needs to either be repaired or cosmetically improved, one option might be a porcelain veneer. A veneer is a very thin, custom designed shell of tooth coloured materials that cover the front surface of a tooth to improve a smile. They are bonded to the front of the teeth to change the colour, shape, length, alignment and spacing of your teeth with porcelain veneers. Porcelain veneers are more stain resistant than resin veneers and have light reflecting properties that are more like natural teeth.
Veneers usually require two appointments. The first visit is to prepare the teeth by removing a small amount of tooth structure from the front surface of the teeth and an impression is taken to make a copy of the teeth. The amount of tooth structure that needs to be removed depends on a few factors such as the alignment, length, shape, spacing and any discolourations in your natural teeth. Temporary veneers are placed on your teeth, while the case and photos are sent to the lab for two weeks, and at the second visit is to fit the veneers and cement them.
We are able to achieve a natural look with porcelain veneers because they are thin and there is no metal to hide, which was common with the way porcelain crowns used to be made. The aim is to produce a natural smile with work that is undetectable and durable.