Dental Veneers Explained: What Are Dental Veneers and Why You Need Them

They often say that first impressions last a lifetime, and one of the key ingredients to make a lasting first impression is to have a beautiful smile. Countless surveys carried out over the years have consistently found that a person’s smile ranks highly on the list of most attractive physical features.

So, what about those who are not fortunate enough to have a naturally beautiful smile whether that is because of spaces between their teeth, misaligned or stained teeth, or even decayed teeth? Are they doomed to go through life robbed of the natural confidence boost that having a beautiful smile can give?

Thankfully, this is not the case and there is an easy and painless solution thanks to dental veneers Turkey.

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Image source: pexels.com

What is a dental veneer?

Dental veneers are thin shells of tooth-coloured material that are cemented onto the anterior surfaces of teeth to fix their cosmetic appearance. They can be used in the treatment of various cosmetic or aesthetic problems including chipped or fractured teeth, teeth that are discoloured, or where there are discrepancies in tooth shape or tooth size. Some people may get a single veneer while others may get between six (6) to eight (8) so that they can achieve a perfectly symmetrical smile without the need for orthodontics.

Where indicated, veneers are a more affordable and much more conservative procedure than other treatment options, and dental veneers in Turkey are becoming a popular option (just ask some of the celebrities gracing your television screens, Love Island anyone?). Veneers differ from full coverage crowns in that a crown involves the preparation of all surfaces of the teeth while a veneer only involves preparing the front surface and the sides.

What are the different types of veneers?

There are different types of veneers that one can get. Perhaps the most common type of veneer is porcelain. Porcelain is a strong, long-lasting material that closely resembles the natural tooth. These require the removal of a small amount of enamel (usually about half a millimetre) from the front and side surfaces of the tooth being prepared to make space for the veneer.  An impression is then taken and sent to the lab for the fabrication of the veneer. This usually takes a few days, and the patient wears temporary veneers in the meantime.

At the subsequent appointment, the dentist places the veneers on the teeth to check the fit. Adjustments are made (if any) and then the veneers are bonded with cement. Unlike other dental procedures, the recovery process is short and once the veneers have been cemented you should be able to function as normal.

Composite veneers are made from a tooth-coloured restorative material that is bonded to the tooth. This usually requires the removal of less tooth structure than porcelain veneers and can usually be done in a single visit. Though composite veneers are not as strong as porcelain veneers, they are easier to fix.

Who is suitable for dental veneers?

Patient suitability for veneers is dependent on a few factors. Firstly, the teeth and gums must be in a good condition. Tooth decay or gum disease must be treated before veneers are placed.

Secondly, veneers are not suitable for people who have oral habits such as tooth grinding or clenching because they are very thin and will fracture if subjected to excessive forces. This is also the reason why veneers are usually only applied to the anterior teeth in the upper jaw, as the more posterior teeth, especially those in the lower jaw, are subjected to greater forces during function. Lower teeth are often made to match the upper teeth through whitening and minimal bonding procedures.

How long do they last?

Typically, porcelain veneers last for ten (10) to fifteen (15) years while composite veneers last between five (5) to seven (7) years. However, veneers may become loose over time, and it is therefore important that you take as much care as possible to ensure their longevity. This means that you must avoid chewing hard foods or objects such as ice or fingernails.

Additionally, you should not use your teeth to open condiment packages or drinks, and you should avoid chewing on your front teeth as much as possible. If participating in sports, a mouthguard should be worn and if clenching or grinding is a problem, a night guard should be worn. It is also important to maintain your normal oral hygiene routine by brushing and flossing.

Dental veneers are a safe and affordable aesthetic option for anyone willing to improve their smile. Consultations for this type of treatment can be done in the United Kingdom with the treatment of a high standard being coordinated with accredited dentists in Turkey. So do not go thinking that you must go through life with a smile that makes you feel any less than the best and most confident version of yourself, this is a problem that can be easily solved. Now the only question that remains is this, what is preventing you from getting the smile you have always wanted?

 

 

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