What is a veneer?

A veneer is a thin layer of restorative material placed over a tooth surface, either to improve the aesthetics of a tooth, or to protect a damaged tooth surface.

What are veneers made of?

The majority of patients having veneers opt to have porcelain veneers. A porcelain veneer can only be made in a dental laboratory, it is then bonded to your tooth, using a resin cement.

Alternatively, you may opt for a composite veneer, which is created directly in your mouth like a normal filling.Porcelain veneers have a longer life expectancy and are less prone to staining.

Why have veneers?

Veneers can cover a number of unwanted problems, such as stained teeth, damaged teeth or gaps:

• Some tooth staining such as fluorosis, which whitening will not always improve can be covered with porcelain veneers.
• Teeth damaged through tooth brush abrasion or holding hair grips between teeth, can easily be repaired with composite veneers. Teeth that are slightly more damaged may require a porcelain veneer.
• Small spaces between your teeth can be covered using porcelain veneers if orthodontic treatment is not an option.

How long do dental veneers last?

Porcelain veneers have a life expectancy of between 5 and 10 years, whereas composite veneers last around 2 years. Regular dental hygiene visits will help your restorative work last longer.