Veneers

What is involved in a dental veneers procedure in SIngapore?

The process typically involves the following steps:

1. Consultation: during your initial consultation, you will discuss your cosmetic goals and concerns with your dentist. They will evaluate your oral health and determine if you are a suitable candidate for veneers.
2. Treatment planning: if veneers are deemed an appropriate option for you, your dentist will create a personalised treatment plan. Records like a dental scan, photographs, and x-rays of your teeth will be taken. A digital smile design will then be done up so that you can visualise your final smile. Next, a mock try-in will be conducted intraorally and your dentist will work together with you to decide on the final preferred look before starting on the next step– tooth preparation.
3. Tooth preparation: in order to accommodate the veneers, a small amount of enamel from the front surface of your teeth may be removed. This is done under local anaesthesia to ensure maximum comfort during the procedure.
4. Dental scans/Impression: once the tooth preparation is complete, your dentist will take dental scans/impressions of your teeth. These dental scans/impressions will serve as a blueprint for the fabrication of your custom veneers.
5. Veneer fabrication: the dental scans/impressions are sent to a dental laboratory to craft your veneers. Your veneers will be carefully crafted to match your desired colour, shape, and size, ensuring a natural and aesthetic result.
6. Temporary veneers: While waiting for the permanent veneers to be done, a set of tempoeray veneers will be placed over your teeth to protect the surface and to also simulate the final look. Any changes, for example, to the shape and contour of the teeth, can still be made at this point. 
7. Veneer placement: Once the permanent veneers are ready, your dentist will remove the temporary veneers and bond your custom-made veneers to your teeth using dental adhesive. Your dentist will ensure a proper fit, make any necessary adjustments and ensure the veneers blend seamlessly with your smile.
8. Final adjustments: after placement, your dentist will make some final adjustments to ensure your bite is right and the veneers fit comfortably. You will be provided with instructions on how to care for your veneers to maintain their longevity.

Who needs veneers?

Veneers may be a suitable option for you if you have specific cosmetic concerns or imperfections with your teeth.

Some situations where veneers may be recommended include:

• Discoloured/stained teeth that do not improve with teeth whitening
• Chipped or cracked teeth
• Gaps or spaces between teeth
• Teeth that are slightly misaligned or uneven
• Irregular tooth shape

What results can I expect?

When you choose to have veneers in Singapore, there are several outcomes you can expect that can enhance the appearance of your smile, these are:

• Improved tooth colour: veneers can provide a brighter and more consistent tooth colour, masking most discolouration or stains that were present before.
• Enhanced tooth shape and size: veneers can modify the shape and size of your teeth, creating a more balanced and proportionate smile. Veneers can also address issues such as uneven or small teeth.
• Close gaps and spaces: veneers can be used to close gaps or spaces between your teeth, resulting in a more uniform and seamless smile.
• Straighter-looking teeth: veneers can create the illusion of straighter teeth by improving their alignment and making them appear more uniform.
• Improved overall smile aesthetics: veneers can have a transformative effect on your smile, enhancing its overall aesthetics and boosting your self-confidence.

How do I take care of my veneers?

Practise good oral hygiene

Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a non-abrasive toothpaste and soft-bristle toothbrush. Use gentle, circular motions to clean your veneers along with your natural teeth. Flossing daily can help to remove plaque and debris from between your teeth.

Avoid excessive force or pressure

Although veneers are durable, they can still be damaged by excessive force. Avoid biting on hard objects such as ice, pens, or even your fingernails. If you grind your teeth at night, your dentist may recommend wearing a nightguard to protect your veneers and natural teeth.

Avoid stain-causing substances

While veneers are resistant to stains, it is still recommended to minimise your consumption of foods or beverages that can cause discolouration as much as possible. Limit your intake of coffee, tea, red wine, and highly pigmented foods. If you do consume them, rinse your mouth with water afterwards.

Regular visits to the dentist

It is recommended to schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings to ensure the health and longevity of your veneers. Your dentist will be able to examine your veneers, clean them professionally and address any concerns or issues that may arise.

Avoid tobacco

Smoking or using tobacco products can stain your natural teeth and may also affect the appearance of your veneers. Quitting or avoiding tobacco will not only benefit your overall health but also help maintain the aesthetics of your veneers.

How long do veneers last?

Veneers are a long-lasting solution for tooth imperfections. With proper care and maintenance, your veneers can last anywhere between 5 to 15 years.

Frequently asked questions

Are veneers painful?

No, the majority of patients experience little to no pain or discomfort during veneers treatment in Singapore. The procedure is designed to be minimally invasive, resulting in a relatively pain-free experience.

Can you go back to normal teeth after veneers?

Veneers are a permanent solution and involve some preparation, which may include slight shaving of your natural teeth (in most cases). Once you have veneers, it is important to understand that you cannot revert back to your natural teeth.

What if my veneers fall off?

Your dentist will assess your tooth to determine if reattaching the veneer is a viable option. In cases where the veneer is broken upon detachment, it is usually recommended to have it replaced as most broken veneers cannot be repaired effectively.