What veneers can do
Veneers are made to the contour of your own teeth and bonded to the enamel. They close small gaps, correct minor misalignment, and address discolouration, fractures and chips. For teeth that are slightly out of line but do not warrant braces, they are often the simpler answer.
When veneers are not the right choice
They are not suitable for everyone. If there is too little enamel left to bond to, if the spacing between teeth is very wide, or if there is significant crowding or misalignment, another treatment will serve you better. Active gum disease or decay must be treated first. If you clench or grind your teeth, veneers are at real risk of fracture and we will say so.
Looking after them
Brush and floss exactly as you would natural teeth, with a non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste. Veneers themselves do not stain readily, but the natural tooth at the margin does, so it is worth going easy on coffee, tea and other strongly staining foods.
Common questions
Are veneers permanent?
The preparation is. A thin layer of enamel is removed to make room, and that does not grow back, so the tooth will always need a veneer or crown from then on.
How many will I need?
It depends what is bothering you. Some people have one to fix a chipped tooth; others do the front six or eight so the shade is even.
Do they stain?
The porcelain resists staining well. The bonding line at the edge can pick up colour over the years.