contact lens porcelain veneers

Minimally invasive contact lens porcelain veneers offer an effective solution for improving dental aesthetics with minimal impact on the natural tooth structure. They provide a natural, beautiful appearance while preserving as much of the original tooth as possible. If you're considering this option, consult one of our expert clinicians to discuss whether contact lens veneers are suitable for your specific needs and to understand the full process involved.

what are contact lens porcelain veneers?

Minimally invasive contact lens porcelain veneers are a type of dental veneer designed to enhance the appearance of teeth with minimal alteration to the natural tooth structure. These veneers are often referred to as "contact lens" veneers due to their thinness and lightweight nature, which makes them similar in appearance to a contact lens.

porcelain features

The veneers are made from high-quality porcelain, which is known for its translucency and ability to mimic the natural appearance of teeth. Porcelain is also highly resistant to staining and wear. Porcelain veneers are durable and can last for many years with proper care.

These veneers are extremely thin, typically ranging from 0.3 to 0.5 millimetres thick. Their minimal thickness allows them to be applied to the teeth with very little or no removal of the natural tooth structure. Despite their thinness, they are designed to be strong and durable, providing a natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

benefits of minimally invasive contact lens veneers

Aesthetics: Contact lens porcelain veneers can improve the appearance of teeth by correcting issues such as discolouration, chipped or cracked teeth, gaps, and minor misalignments.

Conservation of Tooth Structure: Because they are so thin, they require minimal removal of the natural tooth structure compared to traditional veneers, which typically require more extensive preparation.

Comfort: The thinness of these veneers means they can be more comfortable and less noticeable than thicker veneers.

  • Local Anaesthesia: For most people, minimal or no anaesthesia is required. However, if any preparation of the tooth surface is necessary (such as light etching or shaping), a local anaesthetic may be used to ensure you’re comfortable and pain-free.

    Mild Sensitivity: Some people may experience mild sensitivity or discomfort after the procedure, especially if any preparation was done. This is usually temporary and resolves within a few days.

    Adjustments: If the veneers feel uncomfortable or you notice any issues with your bite, your dentist can make adjustments to ensure a proper fit and comfort.

    Contact lens porcelain veneers are designed to be a minimally invasive cosmetic treatment with minimal discomfort. The procedure is generally well-tolerated, and any minor discomfort usually resolves quickly. If you have concerns about pain or discomfort, discuss them with our clinicians beforehand so they can address any specific needs or sensitivities you might have.

  • The preparation required for contact lens veneers is minimal compared to traditional veneers. Only a small amount of enamel might be removed or etched to help the veneer adhere properly. If any tooth preparation is required, this is done under local anaesthesia.

  • Minimally invasive contact lens porcelain veneers typically last between 10 to 15 years or more with proper care. The longevity of these veneers can depend on several factors:

    Oral hygiene - Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial. Regular brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash can help prevent plaque build-up and potential issues that could affect the veneers.

    Diet - While porcelain is resistant to staining, it's still beneficial to limit consumption of foods and drinks that can cause discolouration.

    Bad habits - Excessive pressure from biting hard foods or chewing on non-food items (like pens) can potentially damage the veneers.

    Bruxism - If you grind your teeth or clench your jaw (a condition known as bruxism), it can put extra stress on the veneers and may shorten their lifespan. In such cases, a night guard might be recommended.

    Quality of the Veneers - High-quality porcelain veneers crafted by skilled dental professionals tend to last longer. Custom-made veneers that are well-fitted and properly bonded to your teeth will generally have a longer lifespan.

    Bite & alignment - Veneers that are properly fitted and aligned with your bite are less likely to experience issues. Misalignment can lead to uneven wear or stress on the veneers.

  • A veneer is like a false nail which is thinner and sits over the front surface of the tooth. This makes it a less invasive procedure compared to crowns, and sometimes it it may even require no tooth preparation at all.

    A dental crown encases a tooth entirely (full coverage) so all the tooth surfaces are covered by the crown. In order to allow for a crown to fit on the tooth correctly, it requires more preparation of healthy tooth tissue.

  • Daily Care: Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to keep your veneers and underlying teeth clean.

    Regular Monitoring: Keep up with regular dental appointments to ensure that the veneers are intact and to address any potential issues early.

    Immediate Attention to Problems: If you notice any changes, such as chipping, cracking, or detachment, contact our team promptly to address the issue before it worsens.