Zirconia Veneers

Zirconia is a dental ceramic used for fixed restorations. In a survey of dentists, its common uses were posterior crowns and bridges, while veneers were a much less frequent use. The survey recorded zirconia use for veneers in 12% of responses, compared with 98% for posterior crowns.

A veneer may be considered where an aesthetic anterior bonded veneer is being planned. Clenching, grinding, a deep overbite, untreated decay, or gum disease can make veneers a poor choice. Tooth health needs attention before any veneer covers the front surface.

Veneer placement can require removal of a small amount of enamel from the tooth front and sides. That removal is why the treatment is not reversible.

Ceramic restorations can fracture, and zirconia-based restorations have reported veneer-chipping complications. Untreated decay or gum disease should be managed before veneer placement.

A veneer can chip, crack, wear down, or become loose over time. Re-bonding, repair, or replacement may then be required.

The process can include shade selection, tooth preparation, an impression or 3D model, laboratory manufacture, a fit check, adjustments, cleaning, and bonding.

A temporary veneer may be used while the custom veneer is made. At the placement visit, the veneer is checked for fit and shape before adjustments and bonding.

Lithium disilicate is more translucent than zirconia and has reported wear concerns compared with zirconia. Composite veneers are easier to fix if damaged, but they are less resistant to staining and wear than porcelain.

Expect the shade to be matched to natural teeth and the final veneer to be checked for fit and shape. The tooth is cleaned before the veneer is bonded.

Veneers are classed as cosmetic dentistry and may not be insured unless medically necessary. Porcelain tends to be the more expensive option than composite.