Don’t let your dentist damage your teeth with crowns.
A report in the British Dental Journal claimed that the numbers of porcelain veneers provided by dentists in the England and Wales is falling, and that practitioners prefer more destructive techniques including full crowns for the management of unattractive teeth. This is surprising news when one looks at the huge increase in cosmetic dentistry in the same time frame. Porcelain veneers are the ultimate in cosmetic dental treatment so why are dentists prescribing them less?
The report by Dr Paul Bruton of the University Dental Hospital of Manchester admits that poor porcelain veneer techniques have been causing unpredictable results. It goes on to suggest that dentists, having been put off by a lack of success with veneers are choosing to use porcelain crowns instead. Such a trend is cause for concern given crowns are less preservative of tooth tissue and are more likely to cause gum problems.
Dr Maurice Johannes of The Harley Street Smile Clinic says,” We prefer porcelain veneers because they look so natural and they cause little damage to tooth structure. Successful treatments require great care but the benefits to the patient is worth the extra effort. The techniques and laser technology used have become so advanced now that these efforts are largely in the preparation and our patients find the whole process more comfortable and relaxed than ever.”
What’s the difference between a crown and a porcelain veneer?
A veneer is a new front surface for a tooth made from porcelain. A thin layer is trimmed from the tooth first to make space for the veneer. They can be used to change the shape and colour of a tooth, to align crowding and close gaps.
A crown can be used for most of the same purposes but it is much more destructive of a tooth. It involves removing a much greater thickness from right around the tooth. Crowns often contain metal, which makes them look less realistic, and may result in a black line being visible at the gum level. Crowns should be used when a tooth is already so damaged it cannot accept a veneer.
How to find a good cosmetic dentist.
¨Make sure he/she is experienced - find out how many veneers they provide a month.
¨Make sure he/she is up to date. Not just being a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry but also regularly attending their scientific sessions is a good indication
¨Make sure a computer-imaging picture is provided. It is essential to agree the desired changes in advance from a visual image.
¨Insist on seeing recent portfolio pictures of his/her own work. A good cosmetic dentist will photograph every case.
¨It is also important they offer a guarantee and that you trust them to sort out any problem should one arise.
For further information please contact Jill Haldane on 020 7193 3448 or email info@harleystreetsmileclinic.co.uk
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