Veneers

Dental veneers (or porcelain veneers) are wafer-thin shells that are attached to teeth and can be used to change the colour, shape and even length of the teeth. Veneers are used by cosmetic dentists to hide stains, blemishes and chipped teeth and last for 5-10 years.

Veneers can be made from porcelain or from resin composite materials and both have their own advantages. Attaching veneers to the teeth takes several visits to the dentist. Your teeth are first x-rayed and studied to see what veneer will be best suited. The next step would be to shave off ½ millimetre of enamel from the specific tooth to allow for placing the veneer on.

An impression is made of this tooth to help in making the veneer which can take up to 2 weeks to prepare. This veneer is then checked for fit and then cemented onto the tooth with special material after the tooth is prepared to get the veneer.

If successful, a veneer looks natural and functions well, though it can crack or chip if treated badly or if you have a tendency to grind your teeth. Veneers don't work well with unhealthy teeth and need good oral hygiene to be successful.