Veneers

If you are unhappy with the way your teeth look due to internal stains and blemishes, or have “staining” from the use of certain medications, then veneers are a very esthetic option. Veneers are an alternative to composite white fillings and are more conservative than crowns. They are thin shells of either a porcelain or composite resin material that are bonded to the tooth to improve the appearance. They have a high degree of strength and beauty and are excellent for restoring discoloured or partially broken down front teeth. If you have ever seen a celebrity go from stained and chipped teeth to a beautiful, straight, gleaming white smile, you have probably seen porcelain veneers.

Unlike crowns, they only cover the front portion of the tooth, and are therefore more conservative on the amount of tooth preparation required.They are made with ceramics, customized to your natural tooth shade, and look like your natural tooth. They can even be customized to match specific markings on your other teeth making them virtually undetectable.

Porcelain veneers are made from the same strong, tooth coloured material that is used for crowns and bridgework. The main differences between tooth-coloured composite fillings and veneers is that the latter are fabricated using a laboratory process and stronger materials, thereby making them more durable.

Porcelain vs. Composite Resin Veneers

Porcelain Veneers

• Stronger and more esthetic than resin veneers. They also do not stain over time. The shades can be customized to match specific patterns in your natural teeth. They are completed by removing a thin layer of enamel, a mold is taken and the veneers are custom made in-office or at a dental laboratory. In the time between, you may wear temporary veneers. The custom veneers are then cemented at the next appointment.

Composite Veneers

• Can be completed in a single visit and generally do not last as long as porcelain veneers. They are completed by removing a thin layer of enamel and bonding composite resin of various shades to your tooth and shaped and polished by the dentist

Contact us for more information on veneers.