What are veneers?
Dental veneers are thin custom-made shells, about 1mm thick and usually made from materials like composite or porcelain. Technicians shape them to fit over the front surfaces of the teeth. These cosmetic enhancements are used to fix teeth that are worn, chipped, broken, discoloured, uneven, crooked, or have gaps between them.
Cosmetic dentistry has grown significantly in response to increased demand for dental aesthetics. Common procedures like teeth whitening, smile enhancement, and correcting malocclusion are popular among patients seeking cosmetic improvements. In fact, Grand View Research reports that the global cosmetic dentistry market was valued at USD 33.6 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow at a rate of 13.5% from 2023 to 2030. This growth is driven by advancements in technology and treatment methods that make cosmetic procedures more accessible and appealing.
Furthermore, the dental market’s growth is also influenced by increased consumption of sugary foods, tobacco, and alcohol. The World Health Organization (WHO) Global Oral Health Status Report in 2022 indicates that nearly 3.5 billion people suffer from oral diseases globally. This growing rise in cosmetic dental procedures underscores the popularity of veneers, which offer an effective and aesthetic solution to address various dental imperfections.
What are the most popular types of veneers?
There are several types of veneers available, each with unique features and applications:
- Composite Veneers – These veneers are made from tooth-coloured composite resin and are suitable for mild cosmetic issues. The resin is applied directly to the teeth and cured using ultraviolet light.
- Porcelain Veneers – These veneers are custom-made to fit your dental anatomy. The process involves removing some enamel, making impressions of your teeth to create a mould, and placing temporary veneers while waiting for the permanent ones to be made. These are the most popular type of veneers in the market today.
- No-Prep Veneers – These require minimal enamel removal compared to traditional veneers, making them less invasive. Often called same-day veneers as well, these no-prep veneers can be applied without local anaesthetic or temporary veneers.
- Removable Veneers – Also known as pop-on or snap-on veneers, these cover natural teeth to conceal imperfections. They can be removed like retainers but may affect eating and speech delivery.
Choosing the best type of veneer depends on several factors, including cost, installation time, appearance, and longevity of the veneer. Consulting with your dentist is vitally important in determining which type of veneer aligns best with your specific needs and preferences.
How are veneers done?
During your first dental appointment, your dentist will assess the condition of your teeth and gums to determine if you are a suitable candidate for veneers. If you qualify, your teeth will be prepared by removing a small amount of enamel to accommodate the veneers. Impressions of your teeth will then be taken, which a dental lab technician will use to create your custom veneers. However, composite veneers don’t require dental impressions.
The fabrication process typically takes a few weeks, during which temporary veneers may be provided if needed. Once your custom veneers are ready, you will go back to your dentist so they can check the shape, colour, and fit of the veneers before permanently bonding them to your teeth using dental cement. Your dentist will also ensure that your bite is comfortable and make any necessary adjustments. Patients can resume normal activities such as eating and drinking once the anaesthesia wears off after the procedure.
Can you get veneers with bad teeth?
Veneers cannot be applied to teeth that are decayed, severely damaged, or misaligned. Healthy gums are also essential for successful veneer placement. Moreover, if you have a habit of clenching or grinding your teeth (bruxism), this can exert excessive pressure on veneers and potentially cause damage. In such cases, additional restorative or orthodontic treatments might be necessary before considering veneers.
It is crucial to schedule a consultation with a leading dentist who can assess your dental health and recommend appropriate treatments.
Dental tourism for veneers
Getting dental work done abroad is an important decision and we are here to guide you every step of the way. It’s always a good idea to start your veneers treatment journey by obtaining a dental assessment from your local dentist. This should include a full dental x-ray.
If you choose to travel abroad, deciding on a country and clinic for dental veneers is the most important step. Make sure to consider affordability, quality of dental care, travel convenience, and communication factors. By evaluating these factors, patients can make informed decisions to ensure a positive and successful dental treatment experience abroad.
What is the best place to get your teeth done abroad?
We often get asked this question by dental tourists searching for the best dental care overseas. The answer isn’t straightforward, as excellent dental clinics can be found in many countries. However, some destinations have become prominent in the dental tourism market. Turkey and Mexico stand out as leading centers for dental tourism, attracting thousands of patients annually. Thailand is also a very popular choice in Southeast Asia, and emerging destinations like Hungary and Vietnam have seen increasing demand in recent years. It’s crucial to conduct thorough research into the clinics.
Discover top destinations for dental tourism here.
At Medical Travel Market, our team specializes in facilitating treatment abroad and can help you navigate your search for trusted dental clinics overseas.
If you are seeking dental treatment abroad, get in touch for a free quotation.
About MTM Global
MTM Global is a UK-based international healthcare consultancy and online travel agency specializing in premier health tourism.
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