What are the indications for placing dental veneers?
What are the indications for placing dental veneers?
The placement of dental veneers is a rehabilitative treatment in Dentistry that allows, in a minimally invasive and effective way, to provide a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
Thus, dental veneers have proven to be a good option for cases of small teeth, stains, diastemas, wear, slight correction of position and shape of the teeth, among others.
However, placing veneers is not always indicated, and that is what I am here to talk about today.
What are dental veneers?
First of all, I think it’s important to explain that dental veneers are often used to improve the patient’s self-confidence, as they help harmonize their smile and make it more pleasant.
This can be very important for both an individual’s personal and professional life. Regardless of the material used, a dental veneer helps in the correction of issues such as wear and dental irregularities.
It’s also important to explain that dental veneers can be indirect, made of ceramic or composite resin, produced by a Dental Prosthesis laboratory, or direct, made by the dentist in the office using composite resin.
Generally, dental veneers are made from composite resin or ceramic and are applied/glued to the front of the teeth using a resinous cement.
So, when are dental veneers indicated?
As I mentioned earlier, dental veneers have very specific indications, so it is crucial to thoroughly analyze each case. Let’s now try to understand when to place them and when not to.
First of all, it is worth clarifying that composite resin veneers are indicated for more minor issues, such as shape defects. A good example of this are diastemas, the spaces between teeth.
Other conditions that can benefit from dental veneers include small misalignments in the dental arch. In this case, composite or ceramic veneers may be considered, depending on the required strength. For color changes, ceramic veneers are more indicated.
It is important to emphasize that, for dental veneers to be indicated, the patient’s oral health must be fully established. Treatments for the gums and cavities must be performed beforehand. For proper adhesion of the veneers, it is essential to have no gum bleeding and/or tartar, as well as the correction of dental position using orthodontic treatment.
In summary…
The general indications for placing dental veneers are:
- closure of empty spaces between teeth;
- replacement of yellowed and old fillings;
- darkened or stained teeth;
- cracks and fractures;
- small changes in the shape and positioning of teeth;
- correction of dental wear.
Ceramic Dental Veneers vs Composite Resin Dental Veneers
I have already shared some details about these two materials that can be used for producing dental veneers. However, it is important to highlight that ceramic veneers, although more expensive, offer greater durability and stability against color changes. On the other hand, composite resin veneers are typically reserved for simpler cases and require more maintenance.
Now, I will share with you the main indications for ceramic and composite resin dental veneers. Take note!
Ceramic dental veneers are indicated for:
- covering minor gingival recessions;
- closing spaces between teeth;
- repairing fractured teeth;
- color correction;
- alignment of slightly rotated teeth;
- wear caused by bruxism.
Composite resin dental veneers are indicated for:
- correction of early-stage dental wear caused by bruxism;
- smoothing the smile;
- restoring anterior teeth with old fillings without significant color change;
- closing spaces between teeth.
What else should you know about dental veneers?
The application of dental veneers is preceded by the preparation of a part of the tooth surface, so that the ceramic shell can be bonded. When direct resin veneers are applied, the tooth wear may be less or even unnecessary.
After the veneers are placed, it is essential to maintain them by properly cleaning them, using dental floss, and brushing regularly (at least twice a day, especially after meals). It is also crucial to visit the dentist’s office at least every 6 months for check-ups. Considering that with composite resin veneers and depending on smoking and alcohol consumption habits, this frequency may be reduced to every 3 months.
Once again, it’s important to remember that prevention is the key measure to ensure beautiful and healthy teeth. Therefore, it is essential to maintain an effective and daily oral hygiene routine.
Have you thought about getting dental veneers? What doubts do you still have? Share all your questions, and we will try to answer them!
