Dental veneers in Burton on Trent

Dental veneers are a cosmetic dental treatment used to cover the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. They may be suitable for addressing issues such as discolouration, minor damage or irregular tooth shape. Your dentist will assess your teeth and gums and explain whether dental veneers are appropriate for you. All treatment options will be discussed in detail so you can make an informed decision.

When might dental veneers be considered?

Dental veneers may be suitable if you have:

• Chipped or broken teeth
• Discoloured teeth
• Small gaps between teeth
• Teeth that are worn down
• Teeth that are irregular in shape or mildly misaligned

Dental veneers can improve the appearance of teeth, but do not move teeth or correct bite problems. Orthodontic treatment may be recommended where tooth movement is required.

Types of dental veneers

Porcelain veneers

Porcelain veneers are made from a glass-based ceramic material and are produced by specialist dental technicians in a dental laboratory. They are designed to closely resemble natural teeth and are more resistant to staining than composite veneers.

Porcelain veneers are usually fitted over two to three appointments. To allow the veneers to fit correctly and look natural, a small amount of enamel is typically removed from the front of the tooth. This means porcelain veneers are an irreversible treatment. Your dentist will discuss this fully during your consultation.

Composite veneers

Composite veneers are applied directly to the teeth using a tooth-coloured resin material, similar to that used for fillings. Treatment is usually completed in one visit and often involves minimal or no removal of tooth enamel.

Composite veneers may be suitable for teeth that are mildly discoloured, chipped or uneven. As resin is porous, composite veneers are more prone to staining and may require regular professional polishing. They may also require maintenance or replacement sooner than porcelain veneers.

How long do dental veneers last?

The lifespan of dental veneers varies depending on your dental hygiene, lifestyle factors and the type of veneer used.

Porcelain veneers can last for many years with appropriate care. Composite veneers generally last several years and may require maintenance or replacement

All veneers will need to be replaced at some point. Regular dental check-ups and hygiene appointments are important to monitor their condition and the health of the underlying teeth and gums.

What does dental veneer treatment involve?

Before treatment begins, your dentist will carry out a full examination of your teeth and gums and discuss whether veneers are suitable.

If porcelain veneers are recommended, treatment is usually carried out over two appointments:

• Teeth are cleaned, the shade is recorded and a small amount of enamel is removed
• An impression or digital scan is taken and sent to a dental laboratory, and a temporary veneer may be placed
• At a subsequent appointment, the veneers are bonded in place using a dental adhesive and checked for fit and appearance

Composite veneers are applied and shaped directly onto the teeth during a single appointment. The resin is applied, sculpted, hardened and polished.

Caring for your dental veneers

A review appointment may be arranged around one to two weeks after treatment to check the veneers and surrounding gum health.

Dental veneers should be cared for in the same way as natural teeth:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Clean between teeth daily
• Attend regular dental check-ups and hygiene appointments

Porcelain veneers are stain-resistant but can be damaged by biting very hard foods. Composite veneers are more likely to stain and may require professional polishing to maintain their appearance.

Book a consultation today

Dental veneers are not suitable for everyone and do not replace orthodontic treatment where tooth movement or bite correction is required. Your dentist will advise whether veneers are appropriate for your dental health and circumstances.

To discuss dental veneers, book a consultation at Capel Dental Care in Carmarthen by calling 01267 237363.