What is dental veneer?

What is dental veneers, Dental veneers are considered one of the latest cosmetic methods currently used to treat staining problems and achieve a beautiful smile for the teeth. In the following paragraphs, we will learn about the most important advantages and disadvantages of veneers, their different uses, and how to remove them from the teeth. So, if you want to learn more about this technique, stay with us.

What are dental veneers

What are dental veneers?

Dental veneers are also called porcelain dental shells or dental lenses. They are thin shells made of porcelain or other materials to cover the teeth from the outside. This is to improve their appearance and achieve a bright, radiant smile. Veneers are bonded to one or more teeth using an adhesive material.

What are the uses of dental veneers?

Dental veneers have many uses that we will learn about in the following points:

• The main use is to treat and hide dental flaws without the patient feeling pain.
• Contribute to the treatment of tooth yellowing and the removal of stains on them.
• Treat broken and eroded teeth.
• Eliminate tooth decay.
• Improve the appearance of uneven teeth in shape and size.
• Veneers fill gaps between teeth.

Why are veneers used in dentistry?

It has been proven that installing veneers is a better option than installing braces or crowns. According to the British Health Foundation, veneers can be used to fill gaps between front teeth or to correct misalignment in teeth.

There are some patients who resort to installing veneers as one of the cosmetic solutions that help improve the appearance of teeth, increase their shine, and give a bright smile by removing yellowness, treating cracks and chips.

Types of dental veneers

Dental veneers have many types, some of which we will mention in detail as follows:

Porcelain dental veneers

This is the first and most well-known type of veneers among many dentists for its known strength and durability. It can be used on tooth tops and sides. When the doctor installs the veneer, they remove part of the tooth enamel layer to be able to install it. Therefore, it is a permanent cosmetic procedure that cannot be removed and replaced, and it is more difficult than other types.

Porcelain shells have the same color as natural teeth and can be whitened further to achieve a beautiful and natural smile. They may last for 20 years or more, but one of their drawbacks is that they cause pain to the patient and require continuous follow-up with the doctor to ensure their safety.

Composite resin veneers

This type of veneer is also called composite veneers, and it is very similar to the porcelain type but less expensive. In most cases, part of the enamel layer is not removed when installing it.

If the resin veneer is broken or damaged for any reason, replacing it is easier than the porcelain veneer. However, one drawback of this type is that it discolors over time, unlike porcelain, which does not discolor. Additionally, resin veneers last only 5 years.

Lumineers dental lenses

These are thin coatings used instead of other types of veneers. They do not cause any pain during installation and last for a long time, up to 20 years.

They are considered easy to remove, unlike other types. However, they have some drawbacks, including:

• They may easily detach from the teeth after installation.
• In some cases, they appear darker than the natural color.
• Many people find them too thin and may not prefer them as a type of veneer.

Inside of the tooth lenses

These lenses are usually made of gold, and they may also be made of porcelain. They are usually used on the inside of the teeth to secure tooth fillings.

Removable veneers

This is the stage before installing permanent veneers. They are made of plastic or resin material and are easy to install without causing pain.

If you want to learn more about installing dental veneers and their types, read the following article.

What are the advantages of installing dental veneers?

Dental veneers have several advantages and benefits, which we will explain as follows:

• They give the teeth a natural appearance.
• The gums can withstand porcelain material very well.
• Porcelain veneers resist staining and discoloration.
• It is possible to choose a color to make the teeth appear whiter.
• They do not require as much shaping as crowns, and they are stronger and have a better appearance.

What are the disadvantages of installing dental veneers?

Despite the many advantages mentioned above, dental veneers have some disadvantages and drawbacks, which are:

• It is a permanent procedure that cannot be removed.
• If the veneer cracks, it cannot be repaired.
• To install the veneer, part of the enamel layer is removed, making the teeth sensitive to hot and cold drinks.
• If the veneer is installed on only one tooth, it may not match the color of the other teeth, and the veneer color cannot be changed once it is bonded to the tooth.
• There is a slight chance that the veneer may detach from the tooth and fall off.
• There is a possibility of tooth decay under the veneer, in which case a full crown coverage would be needed.
• Installing dental veneers is not one of the best options for people with dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, or fractures.

How are dental veneers installed?

Usually, installing dental veneers requires three visits to the dentist for consultation and installation, which are:

• First visit: Also known as the consultation session, where the doctor discusses all available options with the patient and determines the safe and suitable option for their case. Additionally, the doctor takes X-rays of the teeth to assess their overall condition and detect any cavities, inflammation, or root or nerve pain, in which case installing veneers would be unsafe.
• Second visit: The tooth is prepared for installing the veneer. The doctor reshapes and trims the tooth surface by about half a millimeter, making the installation process easier. The patient may need anesthesia at this stage. An impression of the teeth is taken with cement, ensuring the appropriate color and shape are chosen. Ultraviolet light may be used to accelerate the setting of the cement material, and the impression is sent to the lab for veneer fabrication.
• Third visit: In the period between the second and third visits, a temporary removable veneer is used. The third session usually takes place 2-4 weeks after the second session, and the veneer is installed.

What is the cost of dental veneers?

The cost of dental veneers varies depending on several factors but typically ranges from 3000 to 5000 Egyptian pounds. Additionally, there are many discounts and offers for installing veneers on a set of teeth or the entire mouth. For more information about the prices of veneers, please read this article.

Caring for veneers

The patient must care for the veneers like their natural teeth by using the appropriate toothbrush and toothpaste, as well as dental floss. It is best to use a toothpaste containing fluoride.

It is essential to reduce the consumption of caffeine drinks like tea and coffee and limit foods that can discolor the teeth. Additionally, avoid smoking and anything that can stain the teeth.

Lifespan of veneers

Veneers have a long lifespan. Permanent veneers can generally last for 10 to 12 years, depending on the patient’s care and maintenance of their teeth.

My experience with veneers

There are many experiences from people who have already had veneers installed. Today’s experience is from a woman in her thirties who says she was never satisfied with her smile because she had yellow and small teeth, and she felt very embarrassed when talking or smiling in front of anyone.

She followed the advice of a friend who told her about veneer technology and went to a dentist who recommended the porcelain type as it suited her best. She underwent the procedure, which had a positive impact on her, giving her a beautiful smile and the aesthetic appearance she had always wanted.

Removing veneers from teeth

Removing veneers from teeth is difficult, and the patient should not have to do this. However, there is a possibility of removing the veneers and leaving the tooth relatively intact. This depends, of course, on the skill, competence, and experience of the dentist in this matter. At our dental care center, we have a team of the most skilled dentists in the field of cosmetic dentistry who can complete the work perfectly. If you want to learn more, please contact the center directly and ask any questions you have through this link.