Veneers

Not all of us are happy with the way our teeth look. Maybe one of them is discolored or chipped or perhaps it's slightly crooked. Although the tooth may well be healthy, the way it looks can make us really self-conscious. Your dentist can help by applying something called a veneer.

Porcelain veneers are one of the more popular Cosmetic Dentistry procedures. A thin porcelain shell is bonded to the front of the teeth. Unlike conventional bonding there is very little chance of discoloration. Porcelain veneers are highly resistant to coffee and cigarette stains. The procedure is also quick and painless. Not only do porcelain veneers help in teeth staining, they also can mask chips in the teeth. They are also easy to maintain with brushing and flossing every day. Similarly, porcelain crowns can be used. Unlike veneers, a crown covers the entire tooth. Porcelain or Ceramic crowns are a good alternative if there is more structural damage to your teeth such as cracks and larger chips.

Regardless of what causes unattractive teeth, dental veneers may solve most or even all of your cosmetic dental issues, including:

• Worn enamel: Over time, the thin, hard white substance covering your teeth (enamel) may become worn, dulled, and discolored. Such wear and discoloration may be natural or the result of a genetic predisposition; however, it is often a result of your habits (soft drink, tea, or coffee consumption, smoking, medication use, etc.).
• Wear and tear: Teeth naturally wear down as people age. Aged teeth are more likely to have chips, cracks or a generally uneven appearance.
• Genetics: Certain people may be born with abnormal spacing between the teeth that grows wider as they age.
• Uneven teeth: Uneven teeth can result from tooth grinding or general wear and tear.

Applying the veneer is a relatively simple procedure and can be done in a couple of visits to the dentist. The dentist will remove a tiny amount of the tooth's surface so that when the veneer is applied it doesn't feel bulky and mould - of your mouth so that a technician can make a veneer comfortable. They will then take an impression that will match the size and shape of the rest of your teeth. On your second visit, the newly-made veneer will be stuck on with special glue.
Veneers can also be made out of the same material that makes white fillings. Your dentist will simply apply a small amount of acid to your tooth to make it a rougher surface and then gradually add layers of filling material to get the right look for you.