Ceramic veneer

A ‘ceramic veneer’ or ‘veneer’ is a thin ceramic plate that is used to cover the front part of the tooth. We have the possibility to produce ceramic veneers with a thickness of up to 0.2 mm. To give you a better idea, the thickness of a conventional razor blade is 0.1 mm. To achieve this fineness it is necessary to use magnification in all working phases. For example, in our clinic, the doctors work with an operating microscope.

The most common material for the production of ceramic facets is lithium disilicate or E.max (trade name of Ivoclar Vivadent products). This material is durable and allows to perfectly imitate the natural appearance of the tooth, its colour, transparency and preserve the natural strength of the tooth tissue.

Who are dental veneers suitable for?

Despite advances in the production of these reconstructions, there are certain limitations and conditions for their manufacture. The following are suitable solutions in the following cases:

• Correction of the shape and slight correction of the position of the teeth;
• Dissatisfaction with the colour of the teeth;
• Removal of interdental gaps;
• Repair of cracks in enamel.

It is not recommended in cases of:

• Incorrect bite and position of the tooth;
• In a patient suffering from bruxism – that is, gnashing of teeth.

How is it done?

At the beginning it is important to understand the patient’s wishes and expectations, then we plan an individual solution. We use various tools to realize the design of the future smile: from classic photographs to digital projects.

After selecting the appropriate shape and colour of the future veneer, the preparation, scanning and fabrication of the provisional structure follows. After the veneers are made in the dental laboratory, we meet the patient, remove the provisional restorations, try the veneer on and evaluate the result.

If the patient is satisfied and the result is clinically satisfactory, we can fix the work adhesively. Otherwise, we will make the necessary adjustments.

Production of dental veneers

There are two methods of producing facets: with and without preparation. The choice of method depends on certain conditions. The method without tooth preparation has its limitations and the aesthetic result is not always satisfactory. When preparing the tooth, we create a ‘bed’ for the veneer, which allows it to fit and integrate perfectly.

„How long do dental veneers last?“

It is one of the most frequently asked questions at the end of every consultation. Materials for veneers and their fixation are constantly evolving and improving. Today, the lifespan of ceramic veneers is usually thought to be between 10-15 years, but depends on many factors, such as oral hygiene, bad habits, and regular visits to the dentist. Caring for veneers is relatively simple and no different from normal care of your teeth.