Types of Dental Veneers
Dental Veneer Types
There are two types of Dental Veneers that we use at Silver Oaks Dental Clinic. One is Porcelain Veneers and the other is Composite Veneers. Porcelain veneers are highly recommended as it is the latest technology, does NOT discolor over time and one can pre-determine the shape and color. Porcelain veneers also look very natural just like your natural teeth. It is the best option.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are usually the more expensive option, but the transformative effect they can have on a person’s smile makes them well worth the investment. The treatment will involve four appointments, with the initial preparation work being done with Dr Huson and the creation of the veneers taking place at our in-house lab.
They are created specifically for your unique set of teeth and will be tailored to your individual tooth colour and shape. They are resistant to staining and are the ideal solution to more severe discoloration, chips or cracks, and they generally last much longer than other types of veneers.
At Silver Oaks Dental Clinic we highly recommend porcelain veneers. It is the latest technology.
Below is a before and after pic of porcelain veneers. The results are remarkable and you can see how porcelain veneers straighten and whiten teeth all in one go. This is a far more cost-effective method than braces and provides quick results usually 3-4 appointments over a short period of time. This can transform your life and dramatically improve your confidence. Research suggests that improving your teeth can make you look 10 years younger. We use only the best manufacturers that are world renowned.
Composite Veneers
We try and not to use composite veneers as it discolors over time and you can’t pre determine the shape and color. It is also NOT resistant to staining. The big downside from composite veneers is that the finish often isn’t as good as you would get from porcelain veneers.
Regular cleaning and polishing of your porcelain veneers will keep them looking great, and as long as your daily dental hygiene is good they should last a long time.
We offer three types of Porcelain Veneers at Silver Oaks Dental Clinic
- eMax
- CEREC® Veneers
- Zirconia
Dr Huson will analyse your teeth and then recommend the best type suited for you. Chat to him about the various options during your consultation. Dr Richard Huson spent over 17 years in the UK working in the Harley Street Region of London where celebrities get their dental treatment. You are welcome to look at our before and after pics in our smile gallery and dental veneers page.
The Fitment of Dental Veneers
The fitment of dental veneers is done over 2 dentist visits. The first would be to assess and prepare the tooth for the veneer. The second would be done once the veneer has been made in a dental laboratory and is ready for being placed onto the tooth. It is more cost effective to have dental veneers done in South Africa compared to many other countries, and Durban is particularly well known for well priced dental veneers done by professional, experienced dentists such as the team at Family Dental Care. There is no down time needed once you get fitted for your veneer and once they have been bonded onto your teeth, which means you have the rest of the time to explore, relax and enjoy a holiday.
Your first trip to the dentist to fit dental veneers would be for the inspection. The dentist needs to be sure that the teeth will be able to receive the veneer. Underlying gum disease and tooth infections will make for disastrous consequences down the road. If the dentist is happy with the state of the teeth then they will go ahead and start the process which involves local anaesthesia. This is so no pain will be felt when the tiny bit of front portion of the tooth needs to be removed. Once done, it is time for an impression to be taken. This mould will provide exact dimensions for the laboratory to be able to fabricate a perfect fitting veneer. You will have a chance to discuss your dental concerns with the dentist on what outcome you are looking for with regards to the final look. This is based on the colour, shape and size of the veneer. We use 3D imaging allowing you to have first-hand knowledge on how the veneer will appear once it has been inserted.
The second trip happens a few days after the first visit to Family Dental Care. Here, the veneer will be placed onto the tooth. It is hardened into place via a bonding agent and curing light. It will feel a bit funny at first, but you will slowly become used to it.
Veneers will generally have a good lifespan. Obviously, they can loosen if bad oral habits are practiced such as the teeth clenching or constant chewing on hard food, both of which should be avoided. Aftercare of the veneer is simply good oral hygiene – no extra long term care is needed. Just floss, brush and visit your dentist regularly!
