Our case of the month for October involves a smile transformation using multiple porcelain veneers. Porcelain veneers are very fine, intricate facings that are placed over teeth to improve the overall aesthetic appearance and symmetry. There are a number of reasons why porcelain veneers may be used which could be:
- Chipped, fractured front teeth
- Discolouration
- Spacing
- Reinforcement due to past root canal treatment
- Asymmetry such as small, peg shaped teeth
The Process
- Now, the planning is the key to great end result. Initially, we need good records of your teeth and photographs. The laboratory will then provide a diagnostic wax up. This is essentially the end result and provides the platform to the treatment and final veneers. If we are not happy with the diagnostic wax up then we will alter it until we are both 100% satisfied.
- The next step is the preparation appointment. In most cases, we will have planned the overall preparations to be minimal. In some cases, we do not need to cut the teeth at all. The key is to keep the preparations within tooth enamel. Bonding or 'gluing' to enamel is highly predictable. Bonding to tooth dentine is not and this is where problems may arise.
- Impressions will then be taken.
- Temporary veneers are then made using the wax up. Therefore the temporaries will replicate the final result albeit in a composite/ acrylic material rather than porcelain.
- Any adjustments can be made to the temporaries at this stage and the information relayed to the laboratory.
- The final veneers are made and ready for cementation.
- You have a new smile!
After Care
Porcelain veneers are great but they are not as good as your own teeth- sorry! They will need extra special care and looking after. In most cases, we will advise you to adopt a soft diet for a few weeks and use a night guard over the top to protect them from night time grinding. If you are a habitual bruxist (night grinder), then you should be using a guard regardless to protect your teeth from wear and tear. Floss and inter dental aids are important to keep the veneer margins clean. Water flosses such as the Waterpik and Philips Airfloss are also useful. Regular visits to the dental hygienist and dentist will be required for general maintenance. If you are not prepared to take extra special care of your new lovely veneers, then you should really think of another solution. Here are the photos of our case of the month:
Before porcelain veneers. Discoloured teeth, badly built up in composite and asymmetry.
After porcelain veneers. A smile transformed.
This case really highlights the difference that can be made. A Hollywood transformation. If you live in Fulham, SW6 or the surrounding areas of Putney, Chelsea, Battersea and Kensington and would like to discuss porcelain veneers, please pop in for a complimentary consultation to discuss your options. Treatment completed by Dr Nissit Patel. Laboratory work completed by the White Lab.