If your teeth are far from being perfect and you would like to improve their appearance to achieve your desired perfect smile, then you should consider getting a cosmetic dental treatment. One of the best ways to conceal teeth imperfections, such as chips, cracks, and discolorations is using dental veneers. This article will fill you in what you need to know about getting dental veneers in Singapore.
Dental Veneers: What are they?
Dental veneers serve as thin wafer-like covers that are placed over the teeth’s front surface. They are made from high-grade materials, such as composite or porcelain. Dental veneers can be customised to look like your teeth’s colour and they can be shaped accordingly to appear natural when fitted.
Dental veneers are great for hiding teeth flaws, including:
- Broken teeth
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Gaps in between teeth
- Stubborn stains that cannot be corrected with teeth whitening
- Teeth that are oddly shaped or are too small
Types of Dental Veneers
There are a few options available when choosing the type of dental veneers for your teeth:
- Composite veneers
- No-prep veneers
- Porcelain veneers
- Removable veneers
Composite veneers. This type of veneer uses a plastic material, composite resin, that mimics the colour of your natural teeth. These are great to correct mild teeth imperfections. There are two types of composite veneers: direct and indirect. The difference between these two is not with the kind of materials used, but with the way they are applied. Direct composite veneers are shaped and polished during your dental appointment and directly attached to the teeth, while indirect composite veneers take longer to be fabricated and are usually done at a dental lab and applied to the teeth once the veneers are completed. Direct composite veneers are less expensive than indirect composite veneers. You can expect this type of veneers to last between two to five years.
No-prep veneers. Applying dental veneers usually takes up time. Your dentist spends more time in preparing each tooth prior to attaching the veneers. No-prep veneers, compared to other types, are completed quicker since the process done to apply them is not as tedious as when composite or porcelain veneers are used. They are easier to install and since no enamel is required to be removed from the teeth, there is no need to use anaesthesia during the procedure. No-prep veneers are also long-lasting as long as they are cared for really well.
Porcelain veneers. This type of veneers are customised to camouflage damaged or fractured teeth. The appearance of porcelain veneers is closer to the natural colour and structure of the teeth as compared to composite resin. They can last anywhere between 10 to 15 years and are stain-resistant. Porcelain veneers are more expensive than other types of dental veneers.
Removable veneers. This type of dental appliance works to hide teeth flaws. Unlike composite and porcelain veneers, removable veneers are not permanently attached to the teeth and can be taken out and put back as needed. Removable veneers are stuck to the teeth’s surface using a dental adhesive. They are also easier to clean and maintain. The materials used to make removable veneers can either be porcelain or durable acrylic. On average, removable veneers can last for up to seven years with proper care.
Signs that show your veneers need to be replaced
Dental veneers are highly durable. Caring for them the right way can maximise their lifespan for up to ten years or even more. It is also important that you regularly check on your veneers closely to see if they have any damage. If you notice any of the following, then it is time to get your veneers changed:
- Cracks or chips on the surface or edges – Dental veneers are prone to cracks and chips, especially when they come against very hard or rough items.
- Decaying tooth – The veneers must be removed when the tooth on which it is attached is decaying.
- Discoloration – Stains from coffee, tea, or tobacco can make your veneers look unappealing.
- Improper application – When the veneers are not set properly, they can fall off and be damaged. If you feel like this is the case after you got your veneers, have it checked by your dentist again.
- Veneer separation – Aside from tooth decay, gum disease can also cause your dental veneers to fall off.
- Wrong veneer size – Veneers that are not the right size can cause you pain.
Replacing dental veneers
Your dentist should let you know if your dental veneers need to be replaced. There are two ways to do this:
- Laser veneer removal
- Manual veneer removal
Laser veneer removal. This uses advanced laser technology to loosen and remove the veneer from the teeth. The energy-charged laser light emitted from the device passes through the veneer to gently pry off the shell from the surface of the teeth. This type of veneer removal does little to no damage to the teeth’s surface underneath. A new set of veneers are then attached to cover the teeth.
Manual veneer removal. This technique of removing veneer involves grinding the shell with the use of a handheld device and a diamond. This process may cause minor to mild pain or sensitivities and is a lot slower than laser veneer removal. The surface of the teeth underneath are then prepped, so the replacement veneers can be affixed.
Taking good care of your veneers
Dental veneers will cost you money. Since this is considered a cosmetic treatment, the expense will not be covered by medical insurance or Medisave. Dental veneers can last for a very long time, so if you want to get your money’s worth, be sure to take good care of your veneers. Here are some tips to follow:
- Avoid chewing hard objects that can cause damage to our veneers.
- Athletes who play any type of sports should wear a mouthguard.
- Do not use your teeth as an appliance for opening packaging.
- Use your back teeth to chew or break down food, especially hard ones.
- Use a retainer or mouthguard if you grind your teeth while sleeping.
Dennis Tan Dental
22 Malacca St., #03-01
RB Capital Building
S(048980)
Phone: +65 6438 5622
Whatsapp: +65 8874 7681
