Ceramic Veneers: Treatment, Cost and Side Effects

If you want smile enhancement and symmetrical alignment of your teeth, then Ceramic or Porcelain Veneers is the perfect solution for you. Porcelain veneers are thin shells of ceramic that are attached to the front tooth. These veneers are made from advanced material that looks like natural teeth and hence, are tailor made by a dentist. A dentist can use a veneer for a number of reasons like cosmetic corrections, teeth whitening and orthodontic adjustments. Due to their versatile and moldable nature, porcelain veneers are preferred by dentists and patients alike.

There are various types of veneers available in the market for achievement of optimum result in cosmetic dentistry. The first is pressed ceramic which is usually strong but are thicker than the other types. Then there is stacked ceramic which can be customized by dentist for each patient. Lastly, lithium disilicate is a new type of veneers that are pretty strong and can only be created with CAD/CAM technology.

Moreover, if you are planning for a smile transformation, then you should know about the difference between traditional and no-prep veneers. Traditional veneers are characterised by the removal of a thin layer of enamel while in no-prep or minimal-prep veneers, dentist removes only a smaller or thinner layer of enamel. However, no-prep veneers may not be ideal for ptients who have gaps between their teeth and have yellow stains.

A dental veneer will depend on the type of result you want to achieve and the present condition of your teeth. You should ideally choose a dentist who has an extensive background in cosmetic dentistry and in veneers in particular. The dentist will do thorough oral examinations along with X-rays, photographs and dental mock-ups. After proper examination, the dentist prepares the teeth for bonding (generally done for traditional veneers). The first step usually involves removing a thin layer of the enamel which again depends on the type of dental procedure you are undergoing. It is generally followed by taking dental impressions which can be taken using soft putty or using advanced CEREC technology. The third step is usually fabrication of veneers which is either created using of layers of porcelain or created using CEREC technology (much quicker and having space for personalization).

The final step in the procedure involves the etching of the tooth and cementing the veneers to the front tooth. During the etching of the tooth, the dentist will apply an acid gel to the teeth followed by the application of a bonding agent. This creates a strong base for porcelain veneers. Finally, the dentist spreads dental cement on the back of the veneers and affixes the porcelain on the front of the tooth. Then a curing light is used to harden the cement. The advantage of dental veneers is that you can combine it with other treatments for a comprehensive smile makeover plan.

If your tooth or teeth have chips, cracks, gaps between them, minor misalignment and discolouration, then you are eligible for ceramic veneers. However, a patients candidacy will also be determined by his or her dental health and the condition of the enamel.

Patients suffering from tooth decay, gum disease or infection and root canal infection are not eligible for ceramic veneers. Although they can become eligible after successfully treating these conditions.

Risks and side effects from dental veneers are minor and can range between tooth sensitivity, dental damage and future replacement. You may experience tooth sensitivity when having hot or cold food. However, if it persists for more than 3 or 6 months, then it may be due to leaking of dental cement or nerve exposure. In case of dental damage, there is an associated risk of damaging the underlying dentin or ill-fitting veneer that leads to difficulties in eating.

The main problem of dental veneers is that it has to be replaced in the near future which might not be feasible for some patients.

After getting a dental veneers, it is essential to maintain them by practicing good oral hygiene and monthly visits to the dentist’s office. You should brush your teeth twice and also floss your mouth after having a meal to prevent bacteria from growing. Ideally you should avoid chewing your nails or ice, opening packages with your teeth and having soft, chewable foods.

For avoiding ugly stains on the teeth, you should give up or lessen smoking and drinking coffee or tea to maintain your porcelain veneers.

No time is required for recovery as dental veneers are usually done on an out-patient basis that uses advance technology. Therefore, treatment is usually done in a single day and has no down time.

The cost of dental veneers will depend on the type of veneers, the place of the hospital or dentist office and the experience of the dentist. The price for dental veneers in India usually range between Rs.6000 to Rs.20,000.

Results of dental or ceramic veneers are permanent and usually lasts for 10 years. However, as they become stronger and more durable, their lifespan can increase for several years.

If you don’t want to go for porcelain veneers, then there are alternative treatments available for enhancing your smiles and aligning your teeth. You have dental bonding, teeth whitening, dental crowns and orthodontics to choose from.