Cheryl Cole, Megan Fox, Zac Efron, Victoria Beckham… The list of celebrities who are rumoured to have had veneers seemingly grows every day. As a result, veneers are receiving increasing interest; everyone wants to know what they are and whether they too can benefit.
So what should you know about veneers? They are a cosmetic dentistry procedure which is used to address teeth that are chipped, stained or misshapen. A thin layer of porcelain or a natural colour ‘composite’ material is applied over the surface of the tooth. The shade of the layer can be matched to your other teeth. A common analogy is the application of a false nail over a real one. If there is a clinical or medical need for them, veneers may be available to you on the NHS. Once the veneer is fitted, it should last for many years. However, it can chip or break just as your real teeth can.
The procedure will normally consist of three visits. Firstly, there will be a consultation with your dentist. The next two visits will involve the making and fitting of the veneers. An additional visit may follow in order for your dentist to check how your mouth is responding to the veneer.
It’s important to note that while veneers are an appropriate option for ensuring that you are happy with the appearance of your teeth, they are only one of many. Tooth whitening treatments or micro-abrasion can be used to get your teeth to their desired shade, while there are a host of orthodontic treatments for repositioning your teeth. Even more important is knowing that these options mean that a smile that you are happy with is absolutely achievable. Make an appointment to discuss your options with your dentist as soon as possible and take steps to achieving the smile you desire.