Porcelain Veneers and Dentine Bonded Restorations

I want to look 10 years younger!

I am sure that is a request heard by most Clinicians since the development of certain make-over programmes on TV. Ceramic Veneers were developed and first began to become popular in the mid 1980s. At Artisan, we have been making them since the beginning and probably have more experience than most in this area.

Technique

It seems a simple concept but can be very difficult to pull off effectively so that the veneers blend in seamlessly with the natural dentition. There are three basic techniques for fabrication and,

through much experience, we feel we have developed the best procedures for achieving a good end result. Firstly, we like to do a diagnostic wax up, so that the patient can see what is possible and, conversely, what is not. It is important not to raise expectations with veneers because, whilst they can be excellent for making subtle improvements in shading and minor misalignment, when used in place or major orthodontics, they can look grotesque and very strange indeed. With the diagnostic wax up, we can also return a duplicate of the study model showing how we have prepared the teeth to achieve the ideal result. Once everything has been accepted by clinician and patient, working from a perfect impression, we construct the veneers using feldspatic ceramic built up on platinum foils on individual dies. 

Comparative Techniques

 The reason we have settled on this technique is because we believe it is the only way to achieve perfect margins and constructing the veneers on individual dies makes it easier to make good contacts and access emergence profiles, which is essential in achieving a natural result. Also the platinum foil leaves just enough space for the luting cement. Pressable ceramic veneers would be a good idea but for the fact that they are not made from feldspatic ceramic and so the bond strength to the tooth is not ideal.

What we need from you

We need clear and comprehensive instructions on what you are hoping to achieve and a map showing any of the areas staining or discoloration; a photograph of the patient or even the patient in person. Oh, yes! And that perfect impression I mentioned previously.

Other uses

The feldspatic porcelain/dentine bonded technique can also be used for restoring chipped teeth and ceramic inlays/onlays.