A smile is often the first thing that we notice about another person. It’s a powerful form of non-verbal communication that conveys warmth and confidence. With Singapore being ranked the happiest country in Asia for the second year in a row in 2024, it’s clear that happiness is a key aspect of the local culture. Interestingly though, a study done by Colgate in 2023 revealed that a significant 92% of Singaporeans wish they could smile more openly and confidently.
If you find yourself feeling self-conscious about your smile, dental veneers might be the solution. They are a popular cosmetic treatment designed to improve the appearance of your teeth and give you a smile you’re proud to show off. In this article, we’ll look into what dental veneers are and explore the two types: traditional veneers and no-prep veneers. Understanding these options might actually give you the confidence to smile freely in the happiest country in Asia!
Dental veneers are a popular cosmetic procedure designed to improve your smile by covering imperfections on the front teeth. They’re used to enhance your smile by covering up flaws like discolouration, chips or gaps. To fit these veneers properly, some space needs to be created on your teeth for the veneer material. Without this space, the veneers could make your teeth feel bulky.
For traditional veneers, your dentist will grind down about 0.5mm of enamel from the front surface and edges of your teeth— that is about the thickness of fingernail. This helps to fit snugly and look natural. The cost can vary depending on the type of material used and the extent of treatment.
Recently, the concept of no-prep veneers have been gaining popularity. In such cases, there is no need for grinding down of enamel; the veneers are simply placed directly on your teeth. Each method has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, which we’ll explore next.
Traditional veneers have been around for quite some time and they’ve earned their place as a reliable option in cosmetic dentistry. These veneers are thin, custom-made shells crafted from materials like porcelain or composite resin. The dental veneer procedure involves applying a thin layer of material, such as porcelain or composite resin, to the tooth surface after removing a small amount of enamel.
Porcelain veneers typically last longer and require proper care, while composite resin veneers are a more affordable option your dentist might recommend. The process often involves a bit of grinding down and reshaping your teeth, so it’s important to remember that it’s irreversible.
No-prep veneers, also known as minimal-prep/ultra-thin/prepless veneers, offer a less invasive alternative to traditional veneers. These veneers are incredibly thin and designed to be applied without the need for grinding down or shaving off enamel. Examples of no-prep veneers include Lumineers, DURAthin veneers and Vivaneers.
Unlike traditional veneers, no-prep veneers require little to no removal of your natural tooth structure. This is a big advantage if you’re looking for a non-invasive option.
The application of no-prep veneers is often faster because it typically doesn’t require as many appointments. Sometimes, these veneers can even be placed in a single visit!
Because no-prep veneers are applied with minimal alteration to your natural teeth, they can be a more reversible option compared to traditional veneers. There is no permanent alteration to the underlying tooth, hence if you want to wear it for a few years and take it off, that is fine too. Check out how veneers are removed using Laser at Dental Designs Clinic.
Since the veneers used are ultra thin, they are not suitable to cover more significant issues such as dark tooth shades, deep stains or undesirable tooth shapes.
They may not be as durable as traditional porcelain veneers and might require more frequent replacements or adjustments. This can add to the overall cost of treatment.
No-prep veneers are ultra thin, averaging about 0.3mm in thickness—about the same as a contact lens! Nevertheless, they still add a layer to your teeth. If your teeth are already on the larger side or crooked, the veneer could make them look bulkier or longer. Furthermore, there might be a slight bulge at the gum line where the veneer meets the tooth, resulting in a small yet noticeable bump.
No-prep veneers are not suitable for everyone and they only work best for teeth with minor imperfections or for individuals who want a subtle enhancement. They might not be suitable for more severe issues or for dramatic changes.
| Traditional Veneers | No-Prep Veneers | |
|---|---|---|
| Tooth Preparation | Involves minimal removal of tooth enamel for proper alignment and natural fit | No alteration of the original tooth structure is required |
| Procedure | Requires at least two dental visit | Typically completed in a single visit |
| Thickness | Generally thicker, providing more coverage and durability | Very thin, which can lead to potential issues like chipping |
| Durability | Highly durable, especially porcelain veneers | Less durable and more prone to chipping or wear |
| Aesthetic | Provides a natural look with good colour matching | Does not cover severe imperfections. There may also be a visible bulge at the area where the gums meet the tooth surface |
| Ideal Use | Suitable for most cosmetic changes and complex cases | Best for minor cosmetic improvements and less severe issues |
1) CAD/CAM 3-D Milled: For this procedure, the veneers are individually milled from hardened blanks of porcelain, offering a balance of durability and esthetics.
2) Pressed: High strength porcelain is pressed into a mold under high heat and pressure. Pressed veneers can be made in thinner sections to conform to the tooth, and are suitable for cases which require less tooth to be drilled.
3) Layering: Milled and pressed restorations have the option to be layered with multiple porcelain layers, to further enhance their look. They are then stained and glazed by hand to match neighbouring natural teeth and give them life-like esthetics.
Choosing between traditional and no-prep veneers depends on what you’re looking for and what your teeth need. Traditional veneers often offer more longevity and durability. If you want a noticeable change and don’t mind having a bit of your tooth shaved down, traditional veneers is a good option.
But if you’d rather avoid any drilling and just want small improvements, no-prep veneers might be better for you. No-prep veneers can be a bit harder to get just right compared to regular ones though. The success for no-prep veneers depends on choosing the right cases and having a skilled dentist and lab team to make it all work.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to ensure any type of dental veneers last as long as possible and continue to enhance your smile. At Dental Designs Clinic, our in-house dental lab will create custom dental veneers just for you. Having them right here at our clinic means our dentists have control over the quality and fit of your veneers. Check them out here!
It’s always a good idea to talk to your dentist about which type of veneer would be best for you. They can give you advice based on the health of your teeth and the look you’re going for.
Ready for your veneer consultation? Simply drop us a message here and we will be right with you!