Veneers

Installation of Veneers at Gallant Dental Clinic

Today, dental problems can be solved with modern methods. For example, for a perfect smile, veneers are often installed: direct or ceramic. The first option is a great opportunity to change the shape and appearance of teeth in just one visit to the dentist. The doctor applies a special plastic material to the enamel, from which the desired aesthetic shape is formed. The procedure does not require tooth grinding, and the result can be easily changed or removed if necessary. The effect lasts for 2–3 years, after which minor correction may be needed.

Ceramic veneers are thin plates (0.3–0.5 mm thick) fixed to the front surface of the teeth. They provide a long-lasting and maximally natural appearance — lasting up to 10 years or more. Ceramic is not inferior to natural teeth either in appearance or strength. Installing such veneers requires several visits to the clinic.

Gallant Clinic offers veneer installation by dentists experienced in aesthetic dentistry. We use only certified materials from leading manufacturers and adhere to all standards and rules during the procedure. The price of veneers depends on the type of artificial teeth and treatment specifics.

Indications for Installation

Veneers are installed in the presence of the following medical indications:

• multiple fillings on the surface of the teeth or uneven enamel shade;
• cracks, chips, carious lesions, or other damage to the front teeth;
• crooked or improperly positioned teeth — in such cases, veneers can be an alternative to braces;
• enamel integrity violations, color changes, spots, unusual tooth shape, or significant gaps between teeth;
• persistent gray shade of the teeth.

In general, if there are fillings on the front teeth and their appearance does not satisfy you, installing veneers on incisors and canines is an effective solution to improve the aesthetics of your smile.

Veneers: Types

Veneers are divided into two main types: direct and ceramic.

• Ceramic veneers are thin plates (less than 1 mm) made in a dental laboratory based on an impression of the patient’s teeth. After that, they are given an individual shape and color, as close as possible to the natural appearance of teeth. Such veneers are fixed onto the pre-treated tooth surface using a special dental cement.
• Direct veneers are created directly in the dentist’s office. A special composite material is applied to the tooth, shaped, and then polymerized under a lamp light. Their main feature is the speed of fabrication: the result can be obtained in one visit without the need for impressions or tooth preparation.

Both types have high strength and excellently handle aesthetic tasks.

How are veneers installed on crooked or dull teeth?

The duration of the procedure depends on the type of construction. If it is about ceramic veneers, usually several visits to the dentist are required. Direct veneers, on the other hand, can be installed in just one visit.

Ceramic veneers are installed in several stages. First, the doctor prepares the teeth and takes impressions. Then, individual veneers are made in the laboratory. During this period, the patient wears temporary overlays that protect the treated teeth. At the next visit, the ready veneers are tried on and fixed.

Direct veneers are installed in one visit. The process looks like this:

• The tooth enamel is cleaned and prepared for ideal material adhesion;
• A special glass-ceramic mass is applied to the front part of the tooth;
• The doctor shapes the veneer, agreeing on its color and shape with the patient;
• The material is fixed under the light of a polymerization lamp, after which it becomes strong and reliable;
• The final stage is polishing, which gives the surface a natural shine.

If the installation of direct veneers on a large number of teeth is planned, several sessions may be needed.

The procedure does not require anesthesia and does not cause discomfort, as it is aesthetic, not therapeutic.

Another plus is that veneers can be easily removed, their shape corrected, or color changed at any time. This is completely painless and quick.

Veneers do not wear out, do not change color, and look like natural teeth. They perfectly hide cosmetic defects, including color changes due to fluorosis, taking certain medications, or after endodontic treatment.

How long do veneers last: main influencing factors

The lifespan of veneers depends on a number of factors. The greatest influence is the material of manufacture and the quality of the dental work. Ceramic (indirect) veneers are made individually based on dental impressions, so it is important that they fit tightly to the enamel. Our specialists maintain maximum precision during the procedure.

An equally important element is proper care. Failure to follow hygiene rules or ignoring the dentist’s recommendations can lead to changes in the color of the veneer or its damage, which often requires replacement.

The lifespan of composite (direct) veneers usually ranges from 3 to 8 years. Over time, they may lose their aesthetic appearance due to the effects of food coloring and smoking.

Ceramic veneers are more durable — from 10 to 20 years. They are made from dental porcelain, which has high wear resistance and does not change color, as it does not allow pigments from food and drinks to penetrate.

How to care for veneers: simple tips for long-lasting results

After getting veneers, specialists recommend:

• Avoid smoking, as smoke can change the color of direct veneers;
• Limit consumption of foods and drinks with strong pigments or brush your teeth after consuming them;
• Do not use teeth with veneers to bite hard foods (for example, apples, nuts, or seeds);
• Avoid combining very hot and cold food;
• Choose a soft toothbrush for daily care;
• Use a water flosser for thorough cleaning of the interdental spaces;
• Undergo professional hygienic tooth cleaning at least once every six months.

Systematic and careful care will help keep veneers in excellent condition for a long time and support the health of the entire oral cavity.