Dental veneer is a wafer-thin, tooth-colored layer of material placed over the frontal teeth. This is used to improve the appearance by restoring the size, shape and length of teeth.  If a patient wants to improve the smile, dental veneers are a simple option. They look like natural teeth.

A dentist may offer dental veneers to correct a wide range of dental issues, such as:

• Discolored teeth that can’t be corrected by whitening (root canal treatment, tetracycline or other drugs, excessive fluoride causes the discoloration of the tooth)
• Worn teeth
• Chipped or broken teeth
• Misaligned or crooked teeth
• Irregularly shaped teeth, which can be restored by veneers
• Veneers used to close the gaps between the frontal teeth

The dentist will help with the choice of veneer material:

• Porcelain veneers are strong and lasts long, more resistant than composite resin veneers. They look like natural teeth and mimic the light reflecting properties, resistant to the stains.
• Composite resin veneers can be repaired easily and quickly, although they are less resistant than porcelain veneers. Composite resin veneers cost less and a few visits to the dentist are needed.

Compared to the crowns, less enamel is removed when veneers are placed. The veneers are a good option for patients, who want to change a little the shape of the tooth. If the crookedness is too much, crowns may be required.

During the first appointment the dentist decides whether veneers are appropriate choice for a patient. The teeth and gums must be healthy; any diseases and decays will be treated before placing veneers. If a patient clenches or grinds the teeth, veneers may chip or break easily. Special plastic guards may be suggested to wear while sleeping. The dentist takes X-Ray to detect any issues.

If the teeth are healthy, the dentist prepares teeth for veneers. A local injection is made to numb the area. After the anesthetics work, the dentist removes a thin layer of frontal surface (the amount is nearly equal to the thickness of the veneer). He or she makes impressions of the tooth or teeth and sends them to the laboratory, where the veneers will be prepared in 2-4 weeks. During that period, the patient may wear temporary veneers. With the help of the dentist the patient chooses the appropriate shade for the future veneers.

At the next appointment the dentist fixes the prepared veneers to check the size and the color. After he or she achieves the proper fit, the veneers are finally placed on the tooth. Regular dental visits are a must for keeping the teeth healthy. It is possible for veneers to come loose over time (7-15 years depend on the patient). The dentist will offer to place the new one or maybe even choose the new way of treatment.

Dental veneers require no special care, but an oral hygiene must be kept. Every day brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash are recommended.