Porcelain Veneers & Dental Tourism
In dentistry, veneers are defined as a thin layer placed over a tooth to improve its aesthetics or to protect some damage in its surface. Tooth veneers are one of the fixed prosthodontic restoration techniques, which refer to the diagnosis, treatment and maintenance of the oral function, comfort and appearance. Dental veneers can be made of porcelain or some other durable composites and are able change the color, shape, size or length of your teeth.
Tooth veneers were invented in California in 1928 by a renowned dentist called Charles Pincus, who used them to change the appearance of the actor’s teeth during a film shot. Over the next decades the materials improved, and nowadays modern porcelain veneers contain bonding agents that can last for as long as 30 years.
Veneers cost can range between $1,000 and $3,000 depending on various factors like geographical location, materials and medical facility.
Some common dental problems that dental veneers fix include:
- Teeth with gaps between them
- Slightly misaligned, uneven or irregularly shaped teeth
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Worn down teeth
- Discolored teeth
Dental Veneers – Procedure
Tooth veneers require several trips to the dentist; a consultation and the two-session veneer application.
The process is usually as follows:
Consultation – It includes diagnosis and treatment planning. In this phase it is important to express your expectations and desired results. The dentist then evaluates your teeth (color, form, size) and will discuss the best procedure and limitations. In some cases X-ray needs to be taken.
The veneers are designed according to your individual expectations and after 10 business days they are ready for final cementation.
Preparation – during the preparation stage, about half a millimeter of enamel is removed from the tooth surface, applying some local anesthesia.
Application and Bonding – the dental veneer is cemented to the tooth. After cleaning and polishing the surface, special cement is applied to the veneer, and then placed over the tooth. The last step involves a bite revision, to ensure correct posture. Finally, excess cement is removed and further follow-up visits may be fixed.
Veneers are designed to allow normal function and more appealing looks, so extra care is always recommended. Stain from discoloring foods and beverages should be removed regularly.
