What are veneers and how do they work?

What are they?

The term veneer refers to a dental treatment type, in which layers of a certain material are applied onto the surface of a tooth or multiple teeth. The aim of the treatment is to improve both the aesthetic appearance and the functionality of the tooth. Furthermore, it also protects the tooth’s surface from further damage.

The use of veneers is beneficial in numerous conditions, such as the chipping or breaking of a tooth, but it can also be helpful for teeth that have been eroded as a result of ageing. Veneers can be beneficial for malformed teeth, the lack of enamel or its inappropriate mineralisation, and they can also be used for purely cosmetic purposes, such as the modification of a tooth’s shape or the treatment of tooth discolouration. Veneers are prepared by dentists specialising in cosmetic dentistry.

If you are looking to get veneers Bournemouth, do not hesitate to book an appointment with us at Smile Stories.

History of veneers

Veneers were invented during the early 20th century in California by a dentist called Charles Pincus. Initially, the veneers were used by him to temporarily improve the smiles of actors prior to their performances or film shoots. Later he introduced developments to his veneers. At this time he used acrylic and the adhesive material used with dentures to fit veneers for his patients. Veneers were only a very temporary solution at this time due to the inappropriate adhesion with denture adhesive.

In the late 1950s another dentist invented etching, which made unprecedented adhesion strengths between veneers made out of porcelain and the tooth’s enamel. In the 1980s research showed that the etching of porcelain using hydrofluoric acid and the application of a composite resin on the surface of the tooth could potentially make veneers a permanent treatment solution. While initially veneers only lasted for a few hours, with today’s technology they can last from 10 to 30 years, which makes them a relatively low cost and permanent treatment for the previously mentioned conditions.

If you would like professional advice or treatment with veneers Bournemouth, get in touch with us, Smile Stories.

Benefits of veneers

The use of veneers can have numerous benefits. The erosion of teeth can have a negative impact on our smiles, and sometimes through our appearance, it can even have a negative effect on our mental health and wellbeing. The use of veneers can restore patients’ smiles when they have experienced tooth erosion. Veneers can also serve as an alternative for teeth whitening for patients who have damaged or thin enamel. In these cases, the application of veneers can cover the tooth discolouration and also protect the enamel and the dentine from further damage. Veneers can also improve the appearance of malpositioned teeth which appear to be crooked, but in reality, do not require orthodontic treatment. While veneers can be very useful for the treatment of numerous conditions and the improvement of one’s smile, there are some risks and contraindications associated with veneers, just like with any other medical treatment.

If you would like to consult with a dentist to get veneers in Bournemouth, get in touch with us!

AUTHOR

Dr. Gareth Edwards BDS qualified as a dentist with honours. Providing Composite Bonding in the Bournemouth & Poole area, he has a keen interest in orthodontics and is also a certified Six Month Smiles provider.