• Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain or plastic bonded to the front of your teeth. For teeth that are severely discoloured, chipped or misshapen, they can create a pleasing smile.Veneers

There are two types of veneers:

  • Porcelain (indirect) veneers require preparation of your tooth and then construction in a dental laboratory. It usually takes two visits to the dentist. They can last 10-15 years, or more.
  • Composite (direct) veneers are bonded to your tooth in a single visit. Composite veneers cost significantly less, but may only last 5-7 years.

Chipped ToothChipped tooth.

Tooth after bonding to repair the chip.Tooth after bonding to repair the chip.

Bonded restorations use composite resin to restore chipped or broken teeth, fill in gaps and reshape or recolour your smile. After applying a very mild etching solution that slightly roughens the surface of your teeth, permitting the bonding material to adhere, your dentist applies the resin and sculpts, colours and shapes it to provide a pleasing result. A high-intensity light hardens the material, which is then finely polished.

  • Many people choose bonding over silver fillings because it looks more natural; the material can be matched to your natural tooth colour.
  • The disadvantages of bonding versus silver fillings are that they cost more, are more difficult to place and less resistant to fracture and wear.

Your dental professional can tell you if you are a good candidate for veneers or bonded restorations.

This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.