PORCELAIN VENEERS

A porcelain veneer (dental veneer, dental porcelain laminate, tooth veneer) is a thin layer of porcelain made to fit over the front surface of a tooth.

Veneers can be used to lighten discoloured teeth, straighten squint teeth and to close spaces between front teeth.

Porcelain veneers are routinely used to improve the cosmetic appearance of teeth that are discoloured, worn, chipped, or misaligned. The ceramic material is bonded to the front of teeth to change the tooth's colour, size, and/or shape.

What is the difference between porcelain veneers & dental crowns?

Dental crowns typically encase an entire tooth whereas porcelain veneers typically only cover the front of a tooth.

Main advantages of porcelain veneers:

1. Porcelain veneers look just like real teeth

Porcelain veneers are translucent, so when they are bonded onto a tooth's surface, they mimic the light-handling characteristics of enamel.

2. Porcelain veneers resist staining

Porcelain veneers are not susceptible to staining and discolouring like other forms of dental bonding. This means that the surface of a porcelain veneer will not pick up permanent stains.

Disadvantages of porcelain veneers:

- may break off
- irreversible process

Who are porcelain veneers not suitable for?

Porcelain veneers may not be suitable if you:
- have unhealthy teeth
- have weak teeth
- do not have enough tooth enamel
- grind your teeth

Your dental surgeon will be able to advise you if porcelain veneers are suitable.

How much do porcelain veneers cost?

Pricing varies according to the amount of work required, but it can cost many thousands of pounds.