When do you need a veneer?
Veneers are usually made to improve the appearance of your teeth. For example, the dentist can fill a gap between your teeth, repair chipped corners, whiten discolored teeth, and conceal crooked teeth.
Treatment
A composite veneer can be applied by the dentist in a single treatment. A porcelain veneer is made in a dental laboratory and requires at least two visits to the dentist.
Placing a Porcelain Veneer
During the first visit, the dentist will grind off a thin layer of enamel from the tooth to be treated. This ensures a secure fit and a comfortable feel. Using an impression of your ground-down tooth, the dentist will create a veneer that closely matches the shape, color, and size of your other teeth. During the second visit, the dentist will place the new veneer.
Placing a Composite Veneer
A composite veneer is made of the same material as a filling. In this procedure, the tooth is first treated with acid to roughen it. This allows the veneer to adhere better. The dentist then applies the composite layer by layer, creating a veneer that matches the rest of your teeth.
Materials
Veneers can be made of composite (filling material) or porcelain.
Costs
The cost of a veneer can vary depending on the material it is made of. Always ask your dentist about the material options and the cost of the treatment. The codes used for veneering are R78 or R79. The cost of a veneer is not covered by the basic dental insurance. Reimbursement of (part of) the costs is provided by supplementary dental insurance.
Risks
Veneers generally last for many years. However, circumstances or (oral) habits such as nail biting, grinding, and clenching can cause the veneer to loosen or break. In that case, always contact your dentist. Also contact your dentist if you experience any discomfort after veneering that doesn't go away after a few days.
Alternatives
Filling
Crown
Braces
Whitening
Source: KNMT
