Veneers at Polygems Dental Care

What are Veneers?

Veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite resin that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth to improve their shape, size, colour, or alignment. They can cover various imperfections, such as chips, cracks, gaps, stains, or crookedness. Veneers are custom-made to match the colour and contour of your natural teeth. They are durable, stain-resistant, and natural-looking.

Why Do You Need Veneers?

You may need veneers if you are unhappy with the appearance of your teeth and want to enhance your smile. Veneers can help you achieve a beautiful and confident smile by correcting various dental issues, such as:

• Discoloured or stained teeth that do not respond to whitening treatments
• Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth that affect your oral health and function
• Misaligned, crooked, or crowded teeth that cause bite problems or discomfort
• Gaps or spaces between teeth that make you feel self-conscious or insecure
• Uneven or irregularly shaped teeth that detract from your facial harmony

How are Veneers Performed?

Veneers are performed by a qualified dentist at Polygems Dental Care. The procedure usually takes two to three visits and is done under local anaesthesia, which means you will not feel any pain during the treatment. The steps involved in veneers are:

• The dentist will examine your teeth and take an X-ray to assess the condition and suitability of your teeth for veneers.
• The dentist will discuss with you the type and design of veneers that best suit your needs and preferences. You can choose between porcelain or composite veneers, as well as the shape, size, colour, and alignment of your veneers.
• The dentist will prepare your teeth by removing a thin layer of enamel from the front surface of your teeth to make room for the veneers. This is an irreversible process that may cause some sensitivity or discomfort.
• The dentist will make an impression of your prepared teeth and send it to a dental laboratory where your veneers will be fabricated. This may take one to two weeks.
• The dentist will place temporary veneers on your teeth to protect them until your permanent veneers are ready.
• The dentist will remove the temporary veneers and clean your teeth. They will then try on the permanent veneers and check the fit, colour, and appearance. If necessary, they will make some adjustments to ensure a perfect result.
• The dentist will bond the permanent veneers to your teeth using a special adhesive and a curing light. They will then polish and trim the excess material and check your bite and smile.
• The dentist will give you some instructions on how to care for your veneers and schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your progress.

What are the Benefits and Risks of Veneers?

The benefits of veneers are:

• They improve the appearance and aesthetics of your teeth
• They protect your teeth from further damage or decay
• They restore your chewing function and smile
• They boost your confidence and self-esteem

The risks of veneers are:

• There may be some temporary sensitivity or irritation of your teeth or gums after the treatment
• There may be some complications during or after the treatment, such as infection, inflammation, nerve damage, or veneer failure
• There may be some uneven or unnatural results if you have dental restorations that do not match the colour of your natural teeth
• There may be some damage to your enamel or pulp if you use too high concentration of bleaching agent or too long duration of treatment

How Much Do Veneers Cost?

The cost of veneers depends on several factors, such as:

• The type and number of veneers that you need
• The complexity and duration of the procedure
• The experience and qualifications of the dentist
• The location and reputation of the dental clinic

Can I Use MediSave Pay for Veneers?

No, you cannot use MediSave to pay for your Veneers.

Can I Use CHAS subsidies for Veneers?

No, you cannot at the point of publishing. For updated information, head to www.chas.sg

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about veneers:

Are veneers permanent?

No, veneers are not permanent as they can wear down, chip, or break over time due to your diet, lifestyle, or oral habits. They may also stain or discolour due to ageing or exposure to certain substances. To maintain your veneers, you need to avoid or limit the consumption of staining foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, wine, berries, or sauces. You also need to practice good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleaning. You may also need to replace your veneers every 10 to 15 years.

How can I take care of my veneers?

You can take care of your veneers by following these tips:

• Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive toothpaste
• Floss your teeth once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and veneers
• Rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash after eating or drinking to prevent staining
• Avoid biting on hard foods or objects that may damage your veneers, such as ice, nuts, bones, or pens
• Wear a mouthguard if you play contact sports or grind your teeth at night
• Visit your dentist every six months for professional cleaning and examination

What are the alternatives to veneers?

If you are not satisfied with the results of veneers or if you have dental problems that require more extensive treatment, you may consider other dental options, such as:

• Teeth whitening: This is a procedure that uses bleaching agents to lighten the colour of your teeth. It can help you remove stains and discolouration from your teeth and make them brighter and more attractive.
• Crowns: These are caps that cover the entire visible part of a tooth. They restore the shape, size, colour, and function of a damaged or decayed tooth.
• Bonding: This is a procedure that involves applying a tooth-coloured resin material to repair a chipped, cracked, or discoloured tooth. The material is hardened with a special light and shaped and polished to match the rest of the tooth.

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