Teeth Veneers

Teeth veneers, also known as dental veneers or porcelain veneers, are custom made shells that are wafer thin and made from tooth colours materials that are designed to be placed on the front of a tooth. The idea is that they improve the appearance of the teeth and are bonded to the actual tooth, changing the shape and size as well as the colour.

Porcelain is the most common material used for teeth veneers but they can also be made from resin composite materials. Porcelain is the best for its stain resistant properties and also for their realistic reaction to light. Resin veneers need less tooth to be removed to be put into place but can look a little less natural.

Why have teeth veneers?

There are a number of reasons why the dentists at Whitehouse & Partners might suggest teeth veneers to a customer. The main reason is that the teeth are discoloured. This can happen due to a procedure such as root canals as well as from staining due to certain medications taken. Excessive fluoride can cause discoloration or the need for a large resin filling might leave the tooth looking a little strange.

If teeth have become chipped or worn, then a veneer might improve both the appearance and the shape of the tooth. Sometimes teeth are naturally misaligned or uneven or can develop craters or bulges in them. Finally, veneers can be used if there is a gap between teeth that causes problems or is an embarrassment to the person.

How are teeth veneers placed?

Usually, installing teeth veneers will involve removing around ½ millimetre of the tooth surface, too small an amount for the eye to really see. This is the thickness of the veneer and creates the space for it to be added. A model or impression of the tooth will then be taken and the veneer created to exactly match the tooth.   It can then be added to the tooth and bonded to ensure it is permanent.