Porcelain Veneers

By keeping the preparation within the enamel we can ensure that the tooth remains strong and the cause minimal risk or damage. The bond strength of the veneer to the tooth is also optimal and therefore there is more predictability and longevity and less chance of failure.

There are circumstances in which more preparation of the tooth is needed, this may be due to decay, existing fillings, overcrowding or over spacing of the teeth.

• In the case of existing fillings or decay the decision on whether a veneer would be appropriate is taken by the dentist. If a veneer is not appropriate then a crown preparation will be carried out. This decision depends on a number of factors, most importantly the amount of tooth structure remaining and the pressure exerted on the tooth during biting and chewing.
• In the case of overcrowding or spacing, orthodontics (braces) may be suggested prior to veneer treatment in order that the veneer preparation can be minimal.

These issues will always be discussed in full during the planning phase of treatment.

Porcelain veneers are an irreversible form of treatment. Even if they are bonded to the teeth without preparation of the tooth, the surface of the enamel is treated in a certain way in order to bond the porcelain to the tooth and therefore they cannot be removed without being replaced.

Porcelain veneers can last for a long time. Longevity is dependent on the initial treatment planning, care of the veneers once they have been placed, regular maintenance and habits of the patients such as alcohol intake, smoking, oral hygiene etc.

The lifespan of veneers can be up to fifteen to twenty years. After this period of time they will not just come off. The main reason for replacement is that they can begin to look slightly aged and worn, the extent of this is still less than natural teeth as the glaze can prevent the veneers from discolouring.