Veneers

Veneers are a thin layer of porcelain made to fit over the front surface of a tooth, like a false fingernail fits over a nail.  Sometimes, tooth coloured ‘composite’ material can be used instead of porcelain, and the dentists at Colchester Dental Surgery can advise you on the best option for you.

Veneers can improve the colour, shape and position of your teeth.  A precise shade of porcelain can be chosen to give the right colour to improve a single discoloured tooth or to lighten your front teeth.  If one tooth is slightly out of position, a veneer can sometimes be fitted to bring it into line with the others.

Some of the shiny, outer enamel surface of the tooth may be removed, to make sure that the veneer can be bonded permanently in place later.  Once the tooth has been prepared, the dental team will take an ‘impression’ (mould).  This will be given to the dental technician, along with any other information needed to make the veneer.

A veneer takes at least two visits. The first is to prepare the tooth and match the shade, and the second is to fit it. Before bonding it in place, your dentist will show you the veneer on your tooth to make sure you are happy with it. Bonding a veneer in place is done with a special adhesive, which holds it firmly on the tooth.

Veneers make teeth look natural and healthy, and we would be happy to discuss veneers with you at Colchester Dental Surgery.