Multiple Uses Of Dental Veneers

Bedford dentist, Dr David Nolte, discusses this versatile cosmetic treatment.

One of the key aims of cosmetic dentistry is to help the patient to have the best looking smile that they possibly can. There are many ways to achieve this and much will depend on the current condition of the patient’s teeth, along with what they want to achieve.

The most popular cosmetic treatment is to have the teeth whitened; which is understandable as it is non-invasive and largely affordable for many people. This treatment works best when the teeth are in reasonably good condition, but of course this is not always the case. One of the most widely used ways to resolve this, and indeed quite a few other dental problems, is the use of porcelain veneers. In today’s blog, we take a look at the many ways that this versatile treatment is used at The Dental Centre Bedford.

Teeth whitening

This is one of the most common uses. Although a teeth whitening procedure offers great benefits for many people; where the teeth have become very badly stained or discoloured, as can happen if you smoke for example, it will probably not achieve a level at which the patient would be entirely happy. In these situations, we are pleased to offer veneers as an alternative. Although it does usually require a minor invasive treatment, it is an excellent way of achieving great looking, white teeth. Porcelain which is often used to make the veneers, is non-porous and therefore unlikely to stain significantly with good care.

Sensitive teeth

Where the enamel of the teeth is eroded, it exposes the dentin layer beneath it. This is porous and allows temperatures, both hot and cold, to reach the nerves in our teeth more easily. When this happens, the sensitivity of our teeth is increased and can cause either sharp or continual pain at times. This can happen when we eat either hot or cold food and drinks or even when the weather is cold if we breath through our mouths.

Unfortunately, enamel will not grow back on its own and dental veneers are an excellent way of replacing the damaged or eroded front surfaces of our teeth. Once fitted, patients usually find that their sensitivity problem is resolved.

Cracks and chips

A teeth whitening procedure can be very effective but it can also highlight any flaws in your teeth, especially those such as chipped edges or cracks that show on the surface of the enamel. Whilst these won’t necessarily cause any problems for the health of your teeth, it can detract from their appearance. Veneers are a great way to resolve this problem and help you achieve a great looking smile.

‘Orthodontics’

Dental braces or orthodontics are perhaps the best way to straighten teeth. Where the teeth need to be straightened for practical reasons, orthodontics are nearly always the best way to go and modern braces are much more discrete and convenient than in the past. However, veneers can be used in certain situations and are also sometimes used for cosmetic purposes to straighten the visible front teeth.

Where the problem is both cosmetic and relatively minor, it is possible, in some instances, to use veneers to visually improve your smile. The most appropriate treatment can only be determined with a thorough examination and you would be invited to a consultation with a cosmetic dentist at our Bedford practice to complete this.

Diastemas

Diastemas are essentially where the patient has a gap between the top front teeth. At various times this has been a somewhat sought after look, offering a unique appearance. There are problems with this though as the gap can gradually cause other teeth to become crooked as well. Depending on the extent of the size of gap and other conditions, it may be possible to use porcelain veneers to close this gap and help to protect the teeth, whilst also returning the teeth to a ‘normal’ appearance for those patients who are not keen on this particular look.

As you can see, there are a variety of situations in which veneers can be used. Not only are they effective but they are easy to keep clean and will last, with good care, for approximately 10 years before they need to be replaced. It is important that patients don’t only look after the veneer though. If the tooth to which it is attached is not kept clean, decay can occur and any damage or restoration required may cause the veneer to fit less securely. Cleaning is straightforward to do and regular brushing, flossing and cleaning by the hygienist (scale and polish) should be enough to keep your teeth healthy and your veneers securely attached.

For any problems with your teeth or gums, whether practical or cosmetic, The Dental Centre Bedford is here to help you! To book an appointment at our Bedford clinic, please call us today on 01234 819868.