Dental laminate (porcelain laminate, also known as porcelain veneer) is a thin shell designed according to the needs of the individual from different materials and similar to the tooth’s color. These shells are glued to the front surface of the teeth to change their color, shape, size or length and improve their appearance. Porcelain laminate is made of different thin layers of porcelain that are replaced with natural tooth enamel and an adhesive layer. Contrary to popular belief, there is no need to shave the tooth to make porcelain laminate and if the dentist chooses the appropriate treatment method, only a small amount of preparation is needed to insert the laminates without damaging the natural tooth for the right candidate for dental laminate.
In addition to the aesthetic aspect, the correct function of the laminate is also important, and proper and strong adhesion of natural teeth and porcelain laminate is essential. After installation, the dentist uses light-sensitive resins until the laminate is hardened with special radiation.
Dental laminates are durable and natural-looking, that ca improve the function and appearance of your teeth. Chips, cracks, discolorations, stains, and even tooth misalignments can be significantly improved with these effective dental procedures.
Designed to cover only the damaged area of your tooth and match the color of your surrounding teeth, dental veneers are long-lasting treatments for a range of dental conditions. Dentists can provide you with dental veneers that look incredibly natural and last for decades.
Who Should Get Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are an important aspect of modern cosmetic dentistry. They are an alternative to dental crowns.
Experienced dentists will start by talking to you about your goals for treatment. Your teeth may be significantly stained and you may feel that a smile makeover with porcelain veneers will allow you to feel confident about your smile again. Or you may want to reshape your teeth, either by lifting some teeth for a more balanced look or by closing gaps between your teeth. Whatever your aesthetic goals, dentists will help you fully understand the veneer procedure and the results you can expect.
Although doctors use conservative techniques, veneers require a portion of your tooth enamel to be removed. If your enamel is worn or very thin, you may not be a good candidate for veneers.
Veneers are a good option for those with minor misalignments in their teeth because they straighten and align the teeth, giving them a natural look.
Can veneers damage your teeth?
No, if your dentist is a qualified and experienced cosmetic dentist, your natural teeth will not be damaged. Your dentist will ask you to take a general X-ray of your mouth and jaw and examine your teeth to make sure that veneers are right for you.
If your dentist determines that veneers are not a good choice for you, they will recommend other options such as composite veneers, dental bonding, orthodontics, teeth whitening, or just teeth contouring. You should be well-informed about all of your options so that you can choose the best treatment option for you.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Dental Veneers
Since veneers are made individually for everyone, just like real teeth, it is impossible to tell the difference between veneers and natural teeth. One of the biggest advantages of veneers is that they offer a comprehensive solution to a variety of dental problems. Veneers are a great option for those looking to improve their smile.
Unlike natural teeth, veneers are resistant to tea and coffee stains due to the use of high-tech materials in their manufacture. Veneers can achieve high whiteness for darker teeth that are resistant to other whitening processes.
Making porcelain veneers is time-consuming and delays the installation of the veneers by at least a week. If the veneers are properly bonded and the factors that cause tooth decay are limited or eliminated, the patient can use the veneers as if they were natural teeth. Despite their high durability, veneers can be fragile.
Laminates should not be put under pressure, as natural teeth should not be put under pressure. For example, you should avoid biting your nails, eating ice, or drinking a lot of colored drinks.
Dental laminate care and maintenance
Caring for dental laminates is very simple and you should treat them like your natural teeth by brushing and flossing regularly. Usually, your dentist will recommend using a non-abrasive toothpaste containing fluoride. You should visit your dentist one week after treatment to check the function of the laminate and how your mouth reacts to the laminate. Even though you may not have any problems with the laminates, you should visit your dentist after one week to check your oral and dental health.
If you grind or clench your teeth, your dentist will recommend that you wear a mouth guard to prevent biting while you sleep.
You should also visit your dentist regularly, as porcelain laminates need to be cared for with a special non-abrasive toothpaste. Your dentist in Kingston should examine your teeth in a short period to detect any small signs that the procedure may not have been successful.