Veneers

Veneers are thin coverings that are carefully crafted and bonded to the front of unsightly teeth. Veneers are excellent for treating chipped, discoloured, slightly misaligned or misshapen teeth or gaps between teeth. They are a more conservative treatment than a crown and can often be used as an alternative if the underlying tooth is strong and healthy. There are two types of veneers; ceramic veneers and composite veneers.  

 

CERAMIC VENEERS

For ceramic veneers the facing on the tooth is constructed of a hard ceramic and cemented to the tooth.

Two or three visits to see Dr. Logue will usually be required to prepare and fit the veneers. An appointment takes from one to two hours depending on the number of teeth to be treated. 

To prepare each tooth a thin layer, about the thickness of a fingernail, is removed from the surface of the tooth. This allows room for the thickness of the veneer. A highly accurate impression (or mould) is then of the teeth and sent to a dental ceramist, who manufactures the veneers to fit your teeth. 

Cementing of the new veneers occurs at the next appointment. 

Advantages of Ceramic Veneers

• Ceramic Veneers are highly aesthetic and very closely mimic natural teeth

• They are resistant to staining due to age, tea, coffee or smoking.

• The ceramic and the cement used in the cementing process are very strong, making veneers comparable in strength to normal teeth. 

• Ceramic will not decay.

• When applied professionally and cared for regularly, veneers can last for many years. 

Disadvantages of Ceramic Veneers

• As they are custom made from high tech materials, Ceramic Veneers tend to be relatively expensive (Approx. $1000 per tooth).

• A small amount of tooth must be removed during preparation. 

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COMPOSITE VENEERS

Direct Composite veneers are a conservative alternative to ceramic veneers. They can be used in a wide variety of cases. They are coverings on the front of the teeth that are made directly on the tooth surface using composite filling material. 

The tooth surface is prepared and the filling material applied. An intense light sets the material and it is then contoured and polished to create a natural looking tooth. 

 

Advantages of Composite Veneers

•  They seldom require removal of tooth structure.

• They do not require impression or laboratory manufacturing, so are less expensive than porcelain veneers. 

• They can sometimes be removed without damage being done to a tooth. This can enable further treatment options at a later time if required.

• They can be repaired. 

• As long are they are cared for by the patient and regularly checked by a dentist they can last for many years. 

Disadvantages of Composite Veneers

• They require more maintenance than porcelain veneers and are quicker to pick up stains. 

• They are not as strong as porcelain veneers and may chip or break in patients with heavy bite forces. 

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