Aesthetic Dentistry
Veneers
Veneers in Brighton
What is a porcelain veneer restoration?
- A veneer is a thin facing of porcelain that is bonded to the front visible surface of a tooth.
- It is similar to a false fingernail.
- The appearance of a tooth can be dramatically improved by a veneer restoration.
- It can change the colour, shape and size of a tooth.
- Discoloured teeth can be permanently whitened with a veneer.
When will I need a veneer?
Porcelain veneers are ideal for front teeth if you have any of the following:
- Stained and discoloured teeth.
- Fillings that are large and noticeable.
- Chipped teeth.
- Spaces between the teeth.
- Slightly crooked teeth.
- Teeth that are too short, too long, or too wide.
Why is porcelain the best material for a veneer?
- Porcelain has a translucency and lustre that cannot be equalled by any other material. It closely resembles the enamel of a tooth.
- Perfect colour matching to existing teeth is possible with a veneer.
- A porcelain veneer is a very strong and durable tooth restoration.
- Although a veneer is very thin, it becomes as strong as the enamel of the tooth. It is strengthened by being fused or bonded to the tooth.
- It cannot be stained and will not discolour.
- A porcelain veneer is very thin and as a result very little tooth material has to be trimmed away to accommodate it.
- A veneer can also be made of a plastic material, but this can not match the aesthetics and durability of porcelain. Temporary veneers are made of acrylic.
What steps are taken in having a veneer made?
- The dentist trims down the front surface of the tooth, and takes an impression of the prepared tooth.
- The impression is sent to a dental technician who makes the porcelain veneer.
- As very little tooth material is removed in the process, a temporary veneer may not be necessary. If the prepared tooth is particularly sensitive a temporary acrylic veneer will sometimes be needed. This is to protect the trimmed down tooth while the porcelain veneer is being made.
- Finally, the dentist will bond (cement) the attractive natural-looking porcelain veneer to the tooth.
Is it painful to have a veneer made?
- It is not a painful procedure.
- A small amount of trimming of the tooth is needed for a veneer.
- This is not painful but the trimming at the gum margin may be sensitive.
- A local anaesthetic can make it a painless experience.
- There may be some sensitivity to hot and cold after the preparation and before the final fitting of the veneer.
- A temporary veneer may be fitted if the prepared tooth is particularly sensitive or additional repair work is needed.
- The temporary veneer will protect the tooth, and prevent sensitivity.
- Before the preparation of the veneer is started any decay must be removed, and the tooth repaired.
- After the veneer is fitted, the tooth may be sensitive for a few days. This will soon pass.
How careful must I be with my new veneers?
- Veneers are very strong and durable and cannot be damaged easily.
- Eating will not be affected, but it is not advisable to bite or chew hard sweets or chicken bones with the veneered teeth.
- The bright lustre of a veneer can be preserved by using a non-abrasive toothpaste.
Why choose a veneer instead of a replacement crown?
Veneers is a much more conservative option compared to crowns as the tooth structure that needs to be removed is minimal and at the same time exceptional aesthetic results can be achieved. Veneer treatments have though certain limitations that need to be discussed with your dentist.
Can veneers make a big difference to my appearance?
- Veneers are able to transform the appearance of all the front teeth.
- Discoloured teeth are very successfully changed to look natural and appealing.
Ready to make a change?
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01273 570 700
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Patient
Testimonials
The whole team are wonderful.
“I have been coming to Brighton Dental Clinic to see Dr Lynsey Crothers for a number of years. I have always found her to be calm, kind, patient, thorough and truthful. I recently had some restorative/cosmetic work and I am over the moon with it and people have commented on my teeth/smile. She is a perfectionist and very skilled - I can't believe the difference. I would 100% recommend. The whole team are wonderful.”
Rebecca Santos
25 January 2023
Amazing team, very professional!
“There are absolutely no words to describe how amazingly thankful I am to everyone at the Brighton Dental Clinic. Thank you, Dr Ilias and Dr Lynsey, for all the support and help I have received over the last few weeks. I definitely recommend the clinic.”
Mihaela Popa
16 August 2022
Simply The Best
“I have been attending this clinic since the 80's. I suffer (or did) from dentophobia. I'm more or less coming to the end of my treatment as I'm now everyone's 'gum chum' (big full denture smile) and it's given me cause to reflect on the treatment I've had over the decades mainly Feroz Jafferji in the early days and latterly Mick Fillery. Not only the dental treatment but for me the tailormade treatment considering my fear and also physical problems which all needed to be catered for before treatment even started. I felt soothed on a psychological level but a physical one too and the gentle reassuring and expert treatment then given has been second to none and if I had all my teeth again (my fault they all had to go over the years to the tooth fairy due to my neglect) I wouldn't hesitate in seeing Mick and if I knew then what I know now I would never have had a fear of going. Thanks too to all the nurses and receptionists always so helpful pleasant and kind. I guess when my treatment, for a probably final denture, is complete, I will leave with a designer smile of relief but a little cavity in my heart that can never be expertly filled.”
Shelley Phoenix
20 April 2022
