Veneers
Veneers
A simple solution for a natural smile
A veneer is a thin layer of porcelain or composite material specially designed to fit over the front surface of a tooth to cover imperfections such as chips, discolourations, or uneven shape. The colour of the veneer is closely matched to your other teeth.
The veneer can be used to close small gaps when braces are unsuitable. As they are very thin and are held in place by a strong adhesive, very little preparation of the tooth is normally needed; some types of veneers don't need any preparation at all.
When preparation is required, a thin layer of the outer enamel surface of the tooth is removed to ensure a strong bond between the veneer and the tooth. A local anaesthetic is often not required but may sometimes be given to make sure you have no discomfort. After the tooth has been prepared, an impression mould will be made of the tooth for accurate manufacture of the veneer.
The preparation and fitting of a veneer normally takes at least two visits. Before bonding in place permanently, your dentist at Malone Dental will show you your newly designed smile to make sure you are happy with it before fixing it permanently in position.
Because the preparation of the tooth is so slight you will probably not need a temporary veneer. The tooth will look very much the same after preparation, but will feel slightly less smooth.
As only minor adjustments can be made to a veneer after it is has been fitted, it is best to wait a little time to get used to it before any changes are made.
Veneers should last for many years but can chip or break just like normal teeth. Small chips can be repaired, or a new veneer fitted if necessary.