Dental veneers London are thin porcelain shells that are bonded to the front of teeth. They can be used to improve the appearance of teeth that are stained, chipped, cracked, discoloured or crooked. Dental laminates are a popular choice for people who want to improve their smile, but they are not a cure for all dental problems.
Before getting dental laminates, it is important to consult with a dentist to see if they are the right choice for you. The dentist will assess your teeth and mouth to make sure that these coverings are the best option. They will also take into account your overall oral health.
What are porcelain laminates and what do they do?
Porcelain laminates are thin wafers that are custom-made to fit over the front surfaces of your teeth, but can also be placed on the back and the sides. They were first used to improve the appearance of Hollywood actors and actresses in the 1930s, and today they are one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments available.
What are the benefits of dental laminates?
Dental laminates offer many benefits for people who are looking to improve their smiles. They are strong and durable, and they can completely transform the look of your teeth. Additionally, they are stain-resistant, so they can help you keep your smile looking bright and white for many years to come.
How are they applied?
They require the preparation of the tooth, which involves removing a small amount of the tooth’s enamel.
They are typically applied in two ways: direct and indirect. Direct dental laminates are made in the dental office using a resin material that is placed directly onto the teeth and set with a UV light. Indirect dental laminates are made in a laboratory, and are then bonded to the teeth. These are usually based on the shape of your teeth following a dental mold or 3D scan being taken.
The type of veneer that is best for you will be determined by your dentist based on the condition of your teeth and your desired results. If you have sensitive teeth, you may be suitable to have porcelain laminates fitted to ease the discomfort you feel when consuming hot or cold drinks.
What are the alternatives to dental laminates?
There are a few alternatives to porcelain laminates. One is to have a composite resin bonding procedure. This is where the dentist will apply a tooth-coloured resin to the teeth and then harden it with a curing light. The resin can be shaped and polished to match the surrounding teeth. But is it fair to consider them a type of whitening? If the goal is to hide staining, abrasive or chemical whitening could be a viable alternative, but may not be suitable for everyone.
Another option is dental crowns. Crowns are like caps that go over the entire tooth. They can be made from different materials, including porcelain, ceramic, or composite resin. Crowns are usually more expensive than laminates and require more extensive dental work. But they are usually used when a tooth is structurally compromised.
What are the risks of getting dental laminates?
When considering dental laminates it is essential to be aware of the risks associated with the procedure. Some risks include:
- Chipping or breaking of the material
- Laminates that are not properly fitted may come off or loosen over time
- Teeth may become sensitive to hot or cold
These risks are improbable and are minimised by finding a good dentist who has experience in this area of cosmetic dental care.
