Laminate veneers (porcelain laminates) are thin porcelain layers bonded to the front surface of the teeth, used in aesthetic dentistry to rearrange the colour and form of teeth. A zirconia crown, on the other hand, is a restoration that covers the whole tooth, with porcelain applied over a zirconia substructure. The choice between the two methods is made by the dentist after evaluating the existing tooth structure, the bite relationship, any clenching habit and the findings of the intraoral examination.
What is a laminate veneer
Laminate veneers are thin porcelain shells applied to the front surface of the teeth. They are among the options that may be considered for aesthetic complaints such as permanent discolouration, form irregularities due to fracture or wear, and mild crowding. In suitable patients they can be planned with a limited amount of reduction of the tooth structure; however, whether the application is possible is determined after an intraoral examination.
What is a zirconia crown
A zirconia crown is a restoration in which porcelain is layered over a zirconia substructure and the tooth is covered on all sides. It may be considered in teeth with extensive loss of substance, in teeth that have previously undergone root canal treatment, and in situations where a fixed prosthesis is planned. The suitability of the tooth for this restoration is assessed by the dentist through examination and, where necessary, radiographic evaluation.
How the method is decided
There is no single answer that applies to every patient; the decision is specific to the individual. The following points are generally evaluated during the examination:
- Where the tooth structure is largely intact and only colour and form arrangement is being considered, a laminate veneer may be evaluated.
- Where there is extensive loss of substance, large existing fillings or a history of root canal treatment, a zirconia crown covering the entire tooth may come into consideration.
- In patients with clenching (bruxism) or a bite disorder, planning is handled together with bringing that condition under control.
- Oral hygiene habits and gum health directly affect planning in both methods.
How the procedure proceeds
- Patient record, intraoral examination and, where considered necessary, radiographic evaluation
- Smile analysis and sharing of the treatment options with the patient
- Digital impression and planning, where considered necessary
- Shade selection and preparation of the teeth in line with the plan
- Temporary restorations during the laboratory stage
- Try-in, adjustment and final bonding of the restorations
- Follow-up appointments and review of oral hygiene habits
Care after the procedure
After the restorations are placed, brushing twice a day, cleaning the interdental areas and attending regular check-up appointments are recommended. Habits such as biting hard objects and opening packaging with the teeth may damage the restorations. If clenching is present, the dentist may recommend a night guard. The follow-up interval is determined by the dentist according to the patient’s oral and dental health condition.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the treatment take
The number of sessions and the total duration vary according to the number of teeth to be treated and the laboratory stages. The schedule is shared with the patient after the examination.
If you have a question about this subject, you can reach our clinic.
Is tooth reduction required
The amount of reduction differs between the two methods and is determined according to the condition of the tooth. Whether reduction is required and to what extent is decided by the dentist after examination.
Can the colour be changed later
The colour of porcelain restorations does not change with whitening procedures. For this reason, shade selection is made together with the patient before the procedure.
The information on this page is for general information purposes only and does not replace an examination by a dentist. Diagnosis and treatment planning are carried out by the dentist following an intraoral examination and, where considered necessary, radiographic evaluation.
Related content
You can reach our clinic for information and appointments.
Serdent Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı Polikliniği
Yenibağlar Mah. Fabrikalar Sok. No: 12/A, Tepebaşı / Eskişehir
Every day 09:30 – 20:30