Porcelain Veneers
Wafer-thin porcelain laminates are bonded to the front of the teeth to correct colour, shape and minor alignment issues.
Overview
A tooth is at its most perfect the moment it comes through. Over the years, exposed to acid and to knocks, it wears, the enamel crazes, decay and staining appear, and it loses its gloss and its integrity. That change is a form of ageing and cannot be prevented. You cannot turn the process back, but you can stop it — and porcelain veneers are one of the best ways to do that.
How porcelain veneers are fitted
The teeth are prepared minimally invasively, without being cut down: only the front surfaces are reduced by 0.1 to 0.7 mm and roughened. The wafer-thin porcelain shells made in the laboratory are then bonded to those surfaces.
As a material, porcelain is brittle. Bonded fully to enamel, however, its resistance to tensile and pulling forces rises considerably, and its resistance to wear is very high indeed.
Who are they for?
They are the treatment of choice for badly discoloured teeth that whitening cannot resolve, teeth whose structure and shape are not right, joining separated teeth (closing a diastema), repairing chipped or worn teeth, restoring old fillings that have lost their colour and integrity, and correcting crowded, crooked teeth.
They are not recommended where there is a bite disorder, habits such as nail biting or pen chewing, or advanced gum recession.
Care after treatment
Alongside brushing, use floss and a mouthwash; do not tear into hard foods with your front teeth; wear a night guard if you clench or grind; and keep to your six-monthly check-ups.
Why patients choose porcelain veneers
- A minimal touch gives a healthy, natural look in very little time.
- The smooth porcelain surface keeps staining and tartar to a minimum.
- Coffee, tea and cigarettes do not change their colour.
- Their resistance to wear is very high.
- With good oral care they serve without trouble for many years.
Ready to start?
Book a consultation and we'll walk you through it, gently, and with no pressure.