Composite Veneer Details

 

Direct Composite Resin Veneers are a non-invasive treatment option used to improve the color, appearance, shape, proportions, strength, and function of a single tooth or of an entire smile. It can also be used to treat symptoms of cold sensitivity. 

 

The surface of natural teeth are cleaned, polished, and prepared with a fine powdered air- abrasion to allow the material to bond to the tooth. A composite resin is directly bonded to the surfaces of the tooth, and then shaped and polished to a beautiful and natural-looking luster. 

 

Advantages 

 

1. Non-Invasive 

This material can enhance the structure strength and appearance of natural teeth. It is applied in a way that generally requires NO “shaving down” or removal of enamel to accommodate the material (unlike most porcelain veneers). This means that you get to keep the structure and integrity of your underlying natural tooth/teeth intact. 

 

2. Adequately Strong 

This material is about as strong as your natural enamel. Any forces or habits that can damage natural tooth structure (trauma, grinding, clenching, etc.) can also potentially damage this material. However, if any repairs or maintenance are needed, as they are with natural teeth, they can easily be made without having to redo the entire veneer. 

 

3. Longevity 

Maintenance of Composite Veneers is similar to that of natural teeth. Just as you would have your natural teeth professionally cleaned and polished on a regular basis, it is recommended that you do the same with your Composite Veneers. They can be polished at your regular cleaning appointments. Furthermore, Just as flossing daily and wearing a night time retainer will protect the health and add longevity to your natural teeth, daily flossing and the nightly wearing of a retainer is important and will extend the longevity of your composite veneers. 

 

Recommendations 

 

Direct Composite Veneers can provide you with a healthy and beautiful smile for many years, but it is important to follow your dentist’s recommendations for proper oral hygiene and also avoid habits hat could damage your restorations. 

 

1. Brush twice daily with a low-abrasive toothpaste (70 RDA or lower), and floss once daily. Receive a professional cleaning and check up from your hygienist and dentist regularly for regular maintenance. 

 

2. Avoid habits such as biting your fingernails, or chewing on pens, ice or other hard objects. 

 

3. Wear your retainer nightly to protect from unintended damaging clenching or grinding forces during sleep. If chipping or wear occur on your Composite Veneers, as it can with natural teeth, your dentist will suggest that you return to the office if you notice any sharp edges on the bonded surfaces, and will advise repairs or maintenance as needed. 

 

4. Just as acidic drinks can slowly erode enamel and smoking, poor oral hygiene, coffee, tea, and red wine can lead to staining of natural teeth, the consumption of these products can create similar alterations/staining to Composite Veneers. It is recommended to reasonably 

attempt to refrain from these damaging things in order to increase the expected longevity of both the Composite Veneers as well as your natural teeth. 

 

Risks or Complications 

 

With Composite Veneers, there is no irreversible damage done to your natural teeth, but, just like natural enamel, composite may chip, break or discolor. If these things occur, repair or replacement may be needed. The patient will be responsible for costs associated with any needed repairs or maintenance.