Dental Veneers in Singapore

What are dental veneers?

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells crafted from materials like porcelain or composite resin. They are designed to cover the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance.

What do dental veneers do?

Here are some common signs that may need veneers:

1. Discolouration:

   • Veneers can cover severely discoloured or stained teeth that do not respond well to whitening procedures.

2. Chips and cracks:

   • Teeth that have minor chips or cracks can be restored and strengthened by veneers.

3. Gaps in teeth:

   • Veneers can close gaps between teeth, providing a more even appearance.

4. Minor misalignment:

   • For slightly misaligned or uneven teeth, veneers can offer a straighter and more uniform look without orthodontic treatment.

5. Worn or irregularly-shaped teeth:

   • Teeth that are worn down or have irregular shapes can be reshaped and restored with veneers.

6. Cosmetic enhancement:

   • Veneers are often used for cosmetic purposes to improve the overall appearance of a smile, creating a brighter, more symmetrical, and aesthetically-pleasing look.

It is important to consult with a dentist to determine if veneers are the right option for your specific dental needs. They can evaluate and discuss whether veneers or other dental treatments might be more suitable.

What types of dental veneers are there?

There are mainly two types of dental veneers:

1. Porcelain veneers

2. Composite resin veneers

   

Porcelain veneers

• They are crafted from high-quality porcelain material.

• Porcelain veneers are known for their durability, resistance to stains, and ability to mimic the light-reflecting properties of natural teeth.

• They are custom-made in a dental lab to match the colour, shape, and size of your natural teeth.

• The placement of porcelain veneers usually requires multiple visits to the dentist.

Composite resin veneers

• These veneers are made from a tooth-coloured composite resin material which are the same materials used in fillings.

• Unlike porcelain veneers, composite resin veneers can be fabricated chairside, meaning they can be directly applied and shaped by the dentist in a single visit. 

• While they are more affordable, composite veneers might not be as stain-resistant or durable as porcelain veneers.

The choice between them often depends on factors such as the patient's preference, budget, and the specific dental situation. Consulting with a dentist can help determine which type of veneer would be most suitable for your needs.

Veneers procedure: How are veneers placed on teeth?

The process of getting dental veneers typically involves several steps:

1. Consultation:

   • First, you will have a consultation with your dentist to discuss your goals and determine if veneers are the right option for you. They will examine your teeth, discuss the procedure, and address any concerns or questions you might have.

2. Treatment planning:

   • Once you decide to proceed with veneers, your dentist will create a treatment plan. This involves discussing the type of veneers (porcelain or composite resin), the number of veneers needed, and the desired outcome in terms of shape, size, and colour.

3. Preparation:

   • To prepare your teeth for veneers, the dentist will typically remove a thin layer of enamel from the front surface of the teeth that will receive the veneers. This step ensures that the veneers will fit properly and look natural. They will then take impressions or digital scans of your teeth.

4. Temporary veneers (if necessary):

   • In some cases, temporary veneers may be placed while the permanent ones are being fabricated in a dental lab. These temporaries protect your prepared teeth until the final veneers are ready.

5. Veneer fabrication:

   • If you are getting porcelain veneers, the impressions or scans are sent to a dental laboratory where skilled technicians will craft custom veneers to fit your teeth precisely. This process can take a few days to a couple of weeks.

6. Fitting and bonding:

   • Once the permanent veneers are ready, your dentist will check the fit and colour. Adjustments can be made to ensure the veneers match your natural teeth properly. The teeth receiving the veneers will be cleaned, polished, and etched to create a good bonding surface. The veneers are then carefully bonded to your teeth using a dental cement.

7. Final adjustments:

   • After the veneers are bonded, your dentist may make final adjustments as needed to ensure your bite is comfortable and the veneers look natural.

8. Follow-up:

   • A follow-up visit might be scheduled to check how your gums are responding to the veneers and to address any additional concerns you might have. 

Throughout this process, your dentist will guide you, explain each step, and ensure you are comfortable and satisfied with the outcome. They will also provide instructions on how to care for your new veneers to ensure their longevity and your oral health.

How to maintain your veneers after they are placed?

Maintaining dental veneers, whether porcelain or composite resin, involves some key practices to ensure their longevity and your oral health:

1. Good oral hygiene:

   • Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily to remove plaque and debris between teeth, including around the edges of the veneers.

2. Avoid staining foods and drinks:

   • While porcelain veneers are more stain-resistant, it is still wise to minimise consumption of highly pigmented foods and drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, and berries. If you do consume them, rinse your mouth with water afterward.

3. Regular dental check-ups:

   • Visit your dentist for regular check-ups and professional cleanings. These visits allow your dentist to assess the condition of your veneers and address any issues early.

4. Avoid bad habits:

   • Refrain from biting on hard objects, like pens or ice, and do not use your teeth as tools to open packages. Such habits can damage or dislodge the veneers.

5. Use protective gear:

   • If you engage in contact sports or activities that could potentially damage your teeth, consider wearing a mouthguard to protect your veneers.

6. Quit smoking:

   • Smoking not only stains your teeth but can also affect the appearance of veneers over time. Quitting smoking benefits both your oral health and the longevity of your veneers.

7. Follow your dentist's advice:

   • Your dentist may provide specific instructions based on your dental situation. Follow their advice regarding oral care, any concerns, or changes you notice in your veneers.

Regular maintenance and care, along with a healthy oral hygiene routine, can significantly extend the lifespan of your dental veneers, ensuring that they continue to enhance your smile for years to come.

FAQ

Are veneers safe for teeth?

This highly depends on the condition of the underlying teeth. Specific criteria, as outlined in the sections above, will benefit greatly from veneers. In certain cases, minimal or no tooth preparation may be required for veneers, hence the overall approach would be more conservative.

We would highly recommend your veneers to be done by certified and qualified professionals. 

Are veneers real or fake teeth?

Veneers are considered prosthetic restorations, with a strong emphasis on achieving a highly aesthetic outcome. The authenticity of veneers would depend on the choice of material, preparation and fitting techniques, and the credentials of the dental operator, and the respective premise where the procedure is conducted.

How long do veneers last?

On average, porcelain veneers can last between 10 to 15 years, and 5-7 years for composite veneers. The durability of veneers depends on the following factors:

1. Materials:

   • Veneers can be made from different materials, such as porcelain or composite resin. Porcelain veneers are generally more durable and resistant to stains compared to composite resin veneers.

2. Oral hygiene practices:

   • Good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, can help prolong the life of veneers. Proper care can prevent issues like decay or damage to the underlying tooth structure.

3. An individual’s habits:

   • Certain habits, such as teeth grinding (bruxism) or biting on hard objects, can put extra stress on veneers and lead to damage. Avoiding excessive force on the veneers and maintaining a healthy diet can contribute to their longevity.

4. Expertise of the dentist:

   • The skill and experience of the dentist in preparing, placing, and bonding the veneers also play a crucial role. Proper installation can ensure the longevity and effectiveness of the veneers.

It is essential to keep in mind that dental veneers are not permanent, and they may need replacement over time. Regular dental check-ups can help monitor the condition of the veneers, and your dentist will advise you when your veneers are due for replacement or if any necessary maintenance is required.

Veneers vs crowns: What is the difference?

Here are some key differences between veneers and crowns: