When a patient is troubled by cosmetic issues such as spaces in between teeth (diastema); teeth stains and discolorations; minor misalignments and rotations; and decay, dental veneers are the best solution. Veneers are cosmetic coverings that are different from dental crowns. A dental crown provides full coverage so there is reduction of teeth on all surfaces; a dental veneer is designed to cover the front or facial surface of the teeth. The latter is least invasive because the reduction is limited to the front, but it is also least retentive. If this is cosmetic option you wish to receive, you have a few options:
1. Composite Veneers: This is the simplest and most basic form of veneer procedure. The materials used are similar to the ones used for dental fillings, and they directly performed in the mouth (which means it does not require a dental laboratory). It may be performed with or without tooth reduction; and is basically achieved by layering of composite material to alter the appearance, shape, size and form of teeth. In terms of colour-matching and overall aesthetics, the dentist who will perform this will be limited by the materials available in the clinic. Total masking of imperfections will be tricky, even with opaquer, but often than not the results are favourable, especially given the affordability.
2. Ceramic Veneers: It is a cosmetic option that is a step higher from the composite veneers; ceramic veneers are indirectly fabricated (in the laboratory) and are adhered to the teeth by cement. This makes it more retentive and provides a more aesthetically pleasing result because it is fabricated in the laboratory. It has the tendency to chip and stain, much like composite veneers, so this is something you have to consider since it is definitely pricier.
3. Porcelain Veneers: Like ceramic veneers, these are fabricated in the laboratory, and they offer the most aesthetic results. Unlike composite and ceramic veneers, the porcelain covering can completely mask irregularities, even severe discolorations so you get truly favourable results. It may require more tooth to be reduced or removed, to improve its retentive property; otherwise, you compromise this aspect and constantly worry about it being dislodged and breaking.
4. Lumineers: The most innovative cosmetic option you can explore are lumineers. They are thin, almost like a contact lens and requires little to no tooth reduction. They are made of a special type of porcelain and when installed, can solve all kinds of cosmetic issues.
All the options described above can resolve various cosmetic issues. If you are troubled by a gap in between your teeth and do not want to go through braces; if you have stains, discolorations and multiple-surface fillings that no longer appear nice; or if you have minor cases of crooked, crowded or rotated teeth, you can get veneers and transform your smile. As long as you are okay about the minimal reduction to be subjected to your teeth, this is the right solution for your problem.
