The colour and shape of the front teeth can be corrected using ceramic veneers. A custom-made ceramic veneer, bonded to the visible surface of the tooth, can improve the appearance of teeth that are discoloured or irregular in shape due to minor damage. Before treatment, we assess whether the condition of the teeth, gums and bite allows for the fabrication of a veneer.
During the consultation, we will discuss what changes you would like to make and whether the result you are looking for can be achieved with a porcelain veneer or another treatment.
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When is a ceramic shell the right choice?
Veneers can be used, for example, to correct minor irregularities in shape, a damaged cutting edge or certain discolorations. They may also be suitable for closing minor gaps between teeth, provided that the new tooth proportions and occlusal relationships allow for this.
In cases of tooth decay or inflamed gums, it is not advisable to fit a cosmetic veneer without first treating the underlying condition. Special consideration is required in cases of severe clenching, teeth grinding or an unfavourable bite. Veneers are not a substitute for orthodontic treatment in all cases where the problem is caused by the position of the teeth.
Ceramic veneers and direct composite veneers
A ceramic veneer and a direct composite veneer are two different solutions. A ceramic veneer is a restoration that is fixed in the mouth and has been prepared in advance by a dental technician. A direct veneer is built up by the dentist using tooth-coloured composite, directly on the tooth.
Composite is generally easier to repair, whilst ceramic can offer good colour retention and wear resistance. When making a choice, the condition of the tooth, the desired outcome and the possibility of future repairs are all important factors. It is not advisable to choose either procedure solely on the basis of its name or price.
How much tooth structure needs to be removed?
The aim is to preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible. At Naturadent, the treatment involves a small amount of surface preparation to create the site for the ceramic veneer. The extent of this preparation is determined by the initial shape of the tooth, the need for colour correction and the planned thickness of the ceramic.
Veneers that require no or minimal preparation may only be used in carefully selected cases. If the tooth is already protruding or is larger than normal, adding further material may result in an unfavourable contour. A very thin veneer may not necessarily provide adequate coverage for severe discolouration. Removed tooth structure does not regrow; treatment requiring preparation is therefore irreversible.
The process of making a ceramic shell
During the consultation, we assess the condition of your teeth and gums, check your bite, and discuss the desired changes with you. At Naturadent, we use digital impressions to design the new restoration. You will also be able to view the digital visualisation. In the case of indirect ceramic veneers, a mock-up – that is, a temporary trial restoration – is also prepared. This helps you to assess the planned tooth length and shape, but does not guarantee the final result.
At Naturadent, the process for fabricating an indirect ceramic veneer is as follows: consultation; digital impressions and photographs of the initial condition; preparation of the tooth surface; a further digital impression for the dental technician; try-in and mock-up to check the fit in the mouth; final cementation. Before cementation, the fit, colour and bite are checked. The schedule for these steps and any temporary restorations are agreed upon in the treatment plan. In the case of a direct composite veneer, following the consultation, the dentist builds the veneer directly onto the prepared surface.
Choosing colours and testing the proposed design
When planning your treatment, it is worth specifying exactly what you dislike about your current smile. A single discoloured tooth requires a different approach to adjusting the length or proportions of several teeth. The desired shade should be chosen in conjunction with the neighbouring teeth. A shade that looks good in a photograph may not necessarily suit your smile in the same way.
If a trial fitting is to be carried out, please observe the shape of the teeth both when smiling and whilst speaking. Please let us know if you feel the planned teeth are too long, too wide or look unusual. The trial helps with the consultation; the material and appearance of the final ceramic restoration may differ from the temporary model. A final check before cementation is therefore a separate step.
Temporary casing and inspection following handover
In some cases, a temporary restoration is required between the preparation stage and the fitting of the permanent crown. Please clarify in advance whether this will be necessary for your treatment, and what dietary and cleaning instructions you will need to follow. If the temporary crown becomes loose or falls out, please contact the surgery; do not attempt to reattach it using household glue.
Once the final ceramic crown has been fitted, you should check that the bite feels comfortable and that the area around the tooth can be cleaned properly. If you feel that one tooth is touching the others earlier than the rest, or if the sensitivity does not subside, please arrange a follow-up appointment. It is advisable to record the date of the check-up and the schedule for follow-up care in the treatment plan.
When should you opt for a different treatment?
If you are primarily dissatisfied with the colour of your teeth, teeth whitening may be an option. Whitening does not alter the colour of existing ceramic veneers, crowns or fillings. If the treatment plan includes teeth whitening, this is carried out before the final colour of the ceramic veneers is selected. This allows the shade of the veneers to be matched to the colour of your teeth after whitening. In cases of malocclusion, orthodontic treatment may be required; for minor cosmetic corrections, composite restorations may also be suitable.
In cases of significant tooth structure loss, a different type of restoration, such as a crown, may be required. As a crown covers a larger surface area, its scope of application is different. When making this decision, the long-term manageability of the tooth must also be taken into account.
Care and potential problems
The ceramic veneer may become damaged or come loose over time, and may need to be repaired or replaced. Temporary sensitivity may occur following preparation. The tooth may continue to decay along the edge of the veneer, so it is important to brush your teeth twice a day, clean between your teeth and attend regular check-ups.
Do not use your teeth to bite into hard objects. If you grind your teeth, your dentist may recommend a mouth guard. If the veneer becomes loose, chips or if your bite feels uncomfortable, please arrange a check-up. The expected lifespan depends on the specific circumstances of the case, the quality of the work and how well it is looked after; no specific duration can be guaranteed for every patient.
The price of the ceramic shell
Prices for pressed ceramic crowns start at 125,000 Ft. The final cost of treatment and any additional charges are set out in the personalised quote.
The total cost depends on the number of teeth being treated, the type of veneer chosen, the design, the trial fitting and any preliminary treatments. In the quotation, we will agree on the services to be provided, as well as the terms and conditions for any subsequent repairs or replacements.
Frequently asked questions about ceramic shells
Is it possible to have a crown fitted on just one tooth?
Yes, in suitable cases, even a single tooth can be treated. In such cases, it is particularly important that the colour and shape match those of the neighbouring teeth. The number of veneers required should be determined on the basis of the desired change and the examination.
Do you have to file down the tooth for every crown?
The extent of preparation is not always the same. A no-grinding solution is only an option if the initial shape of the tooth is suitable. Before making a decision, ask for an explanation of how much tooth structure needs to be removed and why.
Is it painful to make a ceramic shell?
The dentist will tailor the anaesthesia required for the preparation to the specific treatment. Temporary sensitivity may occur afterwards. Do not regard severe or persistent discomfort as a natural part of the treatment; ask for a check-up.
Should I have my teeth whitened first, or should the shell be made first?
If you are also planning to have your teeth whitened, this must be done before the final colour of the ceramic veneers is chosen. Your dentist will determine the appropriate method and the interval between treatments. Whitening will not alter the colour of ceramic veneers that have already been fitted.
Is the shell the same as the crown?
No. The enamel primarily covers the visible surface of the tooth, whilst the dentine makes up the greater part of it. The treatment of a significantly damaged tooth cannot be decided on purely aesthetic grounds.
What happens if the shell breaks or comes off later?
The dentist will examine the veneer and the tooth underneath. This will determine whether the veneer needs to be reattached, repaired or a new one made. If you find the piece that has come loose, please bring it with you to your appointment.
How long does the ceramic shell remain usable?
There is no one-size-fits-all lifespan. Biting, teeth grinding, oral hygiene and changes in the condition of the teeth all play a part. As well as wearing a mouthguard, regular check-ups with your dentist are still necessary.
Will I be able to get my original tooth surface back later?
Once enamel has been removed, it does not grow back. Once the tooth has been prepared, any subsequent treatment must be planned accordingly. It is important to discuss this consequence before treatment begins.
Book an appointment
Book an appointment for a consultation on porcelain veneers and discuss with our dentist which treatment is best suited to the condition of your teeth and your preferences.
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