Aesthetic dentistry
Ceramic veneers
Laboratory-made ceramic layers bonded to the tooth to change its shape and colour.
- Materials and technology
- Cerámica dental
What it involves
Ceramic is made outside the mouth from records taken from the patient and then bonded to the tooth.
It is a non-metallic inorganic material that holds its colour more stably than composite.
Who it is for
- Aesthetic changes that need long-term colour stability.
- Teeth with shape or colour changes that whitening cannot correct.
- Requires periodontal health and no active decay.
How it works
- 1Assessment, planning and records.
- 2Tooth preparation and impression or digital scan.
- 3Fabrication of the veneer.
- 4Try-in, adjustment and final bonding.
Materials and alternatives
| Composite resin | Ceramic | |
|---|---|---|
| Where it is made | Directly in the mouth, layer by layer, in the practice. | In a laboratory, from records taken from the patient. |
| Tooth reduction | Usually requires less preparation. | Depends on the ceramic thickness the case requires. |
| Colour stability | More prone to staining over time. | Holds its colour more stably. |
| Repair | A small fracture can usually be repaired without redoing it. | A fracture normally means remaking the piece. |
| Maintenance | Periodic polishing at check-ups. | Usual hygiene and check-ups. |
No option is better in the abstract: the choice depends on the diagnosis.
Aftercare
- Daily hygiene and regular check-ups.
- A night guard if you grind your teeth.
- Avoid biting hard objects with the front teeth.
Frequently asked questions
How long do they last?
It depends on hygiene, on the bite and on habits such as grinding. Regular check-ups allow any problem to be caught early.
Does the tooth need to be reduced?
It depends on the case. The amount of preparation is defined during planning, according to the ceramic thickness the result requires.
Can they be repaired if they fracture?
Unlike composite, a fractured ceramic veneer normally has to be remade.
Is this the treatment you need?
In the consultation we review your case and explain the options.