Porcelain Veneers

A porcelain veneer is a thin ceramic restoration custom-made in a laboratory and bonded to the front surface of a tooth. The preparation required depends on the existing tooth shape and the planned change. In some cases, a small amount of enamel is removed; this is irreversible. Suitability is determined by assessing the remaining tooth tissue and bite.

Uses

Adjusting the shape of worn teeth or teeth with limited fractures when sufficient supporting tissue remains, with any decay treated first.

Considering restorative options for discolouration that does not respond sufficiently to whitening, according to the condition of the tooth and the discolouration.

Adjusting gaps between teeth or changing the size and proportions of small teeth in suitable cases.

Planning tooth shape individually in relation to the lips and facial features.

Procedure

After the front surface of the tooth has been prepared for the planned restoration, an impression is taken and the porcelain veneers are produced in a laboratory. During intraoral trial fitting, colour, shape, fit and bite are checked. The restoration and tooth surfaces are prepared using methods appropriate to the material and bonded with dedicated adhesive systems. Unlike full crowns, porcelain veneers primarily cover the front surface rather than the entire circumference of a tooth. Less tooth tissue may therefore be removed in suitable cases. However, it cannot be said that the natural tooth remains completely unchanged or that the procedure carries no risks. Appearance is planned by considering both the optical properties of the ceramic and the colour of the underlying tooth. Porcelain veneers may crack, fracture or debond because of impact, unsuitable bite forces or tooth clenching. Smooth ceramic surfaces may resist some external staining, but colour changes can develop at the margins and decay can affect surrounding tooth tissue. Regular oral care and reviews are necessary to monitor the restorations and surrounding tissues.