Dental veneers

Definition

Dental veneers are very thin shells, generally made of ceramic or composite resin, custom-made to cover the visible side of the teeth. They are fixed using a strong dental adhesive and are mainly used to improve the appearance of the smile. They can be used to correct various aesthetic defects while maintaining a natural and harmonious appearance.

Benefits

Stained or discoloured teeth: Resistant to conventional whitening.
Chipped or worn teeth: To restore their appearance.
Interdental spaces: Closure of diastemas.
Slight dental malpositions: Aesthetic alternative to orthodontics.
Irregularly shaped teeth: Correction of asymmetries.

Benefits of dental veneers

Natural aesthetic appearance: Ceramic perfectly imitates the appearance of tooth enamel.
Stain resistance: Ceramic veneers are highly resistant to stains caused by coffee, tea or tobacco.
Quick solution: Compared to orthodontic treatments, they offer a rapid transformation of the smile.
Preservation of the natural tooth: Unlike crowns, veneers require minimal tooth preparation.

Disadvantages and limitations

Irreversible treatment: A slight reduction of the enamel is often necessary to fix the veneers, making the process irreversible.
Fragility: Although durable, veneers can crack or come loose in case of impact or inappropriate use (for example, biting hard objects).
High cost: Veneers, especially ceramic ones, are more expensive than other cosmetic options.
Not suitable for severe problems: Veneers cannot correct severe malocclusions or badly damaged teeth requiring crowns.

How are the veneers applied?

1. Initial consultation and diagnosis
The orthodontist or dentist examines the teeth, takes x-rays and discusses the patient’s expectations.
2. Preparation of the teeth
A thin layer of enamel (0.3 to 0.7 mm) is removed to allow the veneer to attach properly.
3. Taking impressions
The dental impressions are sent to a laboratory to make the custom-made veneers.
4. Fitting and adjustment
Once the veneers are ready, they are tried on, adjusted and permanently bonded to the teeth.

A fantastic solution

Veneers are an excellent solution for quickly and permanently improving the aesthetics of the smile. They are particularly suitable for patients seeking correction of mild to moderate tooth defects while maintaining a natural appearance. Regular maintenance and good oral hygiene are essential to preserve their lifespan, which is generally estimated at between 10 and 15 years.