What is Veneer in Dentistry?

 

A Veneer is a thin wafer of tooth colored material that is permanently bonded on the front surface of the anterior teeth in order to cover and esthetically restore an unsightly tooth. A veneer can either cover a portion of the front surface or the entire front surface of the tooth depending on the requirement.

 

When are the Veneers needed?

 

Veneers are used to correct the following conditions:

• Teeth with facial surface that is malformed during its growth and development.

• Permanent discoloration of the teeth that cannot be removed by just cleaning or polishing the tooth. 

• Tooth with a discolored and a broken filling on the facial surface area.

• Teeth which get abraded and eroded by wear and tear.

• To cover up small gaps seen among the anterior teeth.

What are these Veneers made up off?

 

Veneers are made from a thin shell of porcelain that is then bonded on a prepared tooth surface. Veneers can also be made using a type of plastic dental material called composites.
A composite resin filling may be used when only a small amount of tooth structure needs replacement. A porcelain veneer is indicated when a portion of the front surface of the tooth needs a complete aesthetic restoration.

 

How are the Veneers placed on the teeth?

 

Veneers are bonded and cemented directly to the existing tooth structure. At the first veneer appointment the tooth surface will be reduced by about 0.5mm so as to create room for the porcelain veneer. An impression of the prepare tooth will be taken, to make an exact replica of the prepared teeth. During the second veneering appointment, the tooth will be wetted with a mild acid solution and the veneers are bonded with a tooth colored liquid resin material.