Dental Veneers and Dental LaminatesLos Angeles, CA

Choosing Between Different Types of Dental Veneers

Although there are many ways to improve the appearance of a person's smile, there are only two basic types of veneers:

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers (sometimes called indirect veneers) are usually made in a lab, although some dentists have the skills and technology to make them in the office. They are very strong, especially after bonding to the teeth, and they do not stain easily. A considerable amount of preparation is required before porcelain veneers can bond to the teeth. For example, it may be necessary to reshape the teeth by removing some of the enamel. This is to ensure that the laminates can adequately bond to the teeth and to avoid having the teeth look too big once the veneers are in place.

Many patients experience sensitivity after having their teeth altered in this way, but it goes away over time. A study published in the journal Clinical Oral Investigations even found that porcelain veneers could be bonded to existing composite restorations without apparent disadvantages. If porcelain veneers are created in a lab, the patient has to wait for them to be made and return at a later date to have them put on.

Composite Resin Veneers

Composite resin veneers (sometimes called direct veneers) can be done in one appointment because they are created directly on the patient's teeth. The tooth preparation for composites is less invasive than for porcelain. Whereas enamel is removed to make room for porcelain veneers, it only needs to be texturized a little for composite resin veneers to adhere correctly.

Applying composite resin veneers is an art form. The dentist applies thin layers of resin to the tooth and uses a special light to cure each layer before applying the next one. When enough layers are built up, Vatan Dental Group sculpts the resin to match the teeth. The result is better-looking teeth, and no one can tell they are not natural.

A study published in the Open Access Macedonian Journal of Medical Sciences concluded that porcelain veneers have excellent longevity and esthetic properties, but that composites are a good alternative. The drawback of composites is that they do not last as long. On the other hand, if a patient's teeth are healthy, they may not want to have them permanently altered to make way for porcelain veneers, and composites may be the way to go. Ultimately, it is up to the patient and practitioner to decide together.

How To Care for Dental Veneers

After the veneers are in place, a follow-up appointment will be made to assess the patient's teeth and bite. At this appointment, we will also check the gums to make sure they are not being irritated through contact with the laminates. The patient's new smile is surprisingly easy to take care of at this point. All that is needed is regular brushing and flossing, as well as the usual twice-yearly checkups. A non-abrasive toothpaste and soft-bristled toothbrush should be used to avoid scratching the laminate surfaces.

Dental Veneer and Laminate Aftercare

The Canadian Dental Association explains that good dental hygiene is essential to maintain the appearance and function of new veneers. Brushing and flossing after meals and visiting the dentist for regular check-ups are critical aspects of proper maintenance. Skipping these steps can cause decay and cavities to develop between or under the veneer shells.

Veneers and laminates can also crack, break or loosen under pressure. Patients should avoid chewing hard candies, ice, or similar items. During the first few days after the procedure, patients should stick to soft foods and avoid consuming nuts, hard bread, popcorn, and seeds. Wearing a bite guard at night can help prevent grinding that may wear down veneers. Veneers are more prone to staining than laminates, so we also recommend patients avoid substances like tobacco, red wine, and coffee.