Laminate Veneers

What Is a Laminate Veneer?

Laminate veneers are thin porcelain coverings applied to the front surfaces of teeth with little or no preparation (grinding). They are used to change the shape, form and colour of teeth. Unlike classic porcelain crowns, a laminate veneer is applied with minimal intervention on the tooth enamel, which makes it one of the most conservative treatment methods.

Who are laminate veneers suitable for?

The main purpose of porcelain laminate veneer treatment is to improve the aesthetic appearance of the teeth and give them a more natural look. Laminate veneer treatment may be preferred in the following situations:

• Closing gaps between the teeth (diastema),
• People who are not satisfied with the colour of their teeth,
• Correcting broken teeth or the worn structure and colour of old fillings,
• In individuals with minimal crowding, aligning the teeth as an alternative to orthodontic treatment.

Advantages of laminate veneers

• Thanks to their light transmission, laminate veneers have a colour and appearance very similar to natural teeth.
• Little or no reduction is made to the patient's own teeth.
• They offer aesthetically satisfying results.
• They are resistant to discolouration caused by tea, coffee or acidic drinks.
• Before treatment is completed, it is possible to see the final result with a trial model (mock-up).

Lifespan of laminate veneers

It is difficult to give a definite lifespan for laminate veneers. However, with attention to oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, this period is extended.

How long does laminate veneer treatment take?

The laboratory production time of laminate veneers is usually 3 to 4 days. With smile design and detailed preliminary work, however, it is advisable to allow one week. After tooth preparation and impressions, the bonding procedure is carried out within about one week.

Stages of laminate veneer treatment

Before laminate veneer treatment, a suitable smile design is first made for the patient. The health of the gums is also important in this process, so scaling (tartar removal) and, if necessary, correction of shape irregularities are required. After all preparations are completed, a mock-up made without any reduction of the teeth before the procedure gives an idea of the result.

The procedure is as follows:

• A slight reduction or roughening is made for the laminate veneer,
• Impressions of the teeth are taken,
• Temporary laminates or fillings may be placed,
• Finally, the laminate veneers are placed on the teeth.

Do laminate veneers fall off?

Laminate veneers are fixed to the tooth with adhesive methods using special bonding agents, so it is not possible for them to fall off or come out.

Is laminate veneer treatment painful?

Because the teeth are numbed during treatment, no pain is felt. When temporary laminates are placed, it is normal to feel some sensitivity.

What should be paid attention to after treatment?

The durability of laminate porcelain veneers increases, but to avoid damaging them you should still avoid habits such as chewing hard foods, grinding the teeth, biting nails or biting pens. It is also recommended that you have your teeth checked every 6 months.