Dental laminate (Porcelain laminate which are known as Porcelain veneers) is a thin shell which is designed by tooth colored material based on the individual’s need. These shells are bonded to the front surface of the teeth in order to change their color, shape, size, or length and improve the appearance. Porcelain laminate made of different thin porcelain layers which are replaced by natural teeth enamel and sticky layer.
In dentistry, a veneer is a layer of material placed over a tooth, veneers improve the aesthetics of a smile and/or protect the tooth’s surface from damage. There are two main types of material used to fabricate a veneer:
A) Composite and dental porcelain. A composite veneer may be directly placed (built-up in the mouth), or indirectly fabricated by a dental technician in a dental lab, and later bonded to the tooth, typically using a resin cement. Usually used for treatment of adolescent patients who will require a more permanent design once they are fully grown. Lifespan of composite veneer is approx. 4 years.
B) In contrast, a porcelain veneer may only be indirectly fabricated. A full veneer crown is described as “a restoration that covers all the coronal tooth surfaces (Mesial, Distal, Facial, Lingual and Occlusal). Laminate veneer, on the other hand, is a thin layer that covers only the surface of the tooth and generally used for aesthetic purposes. These normally have better performance, aesthetics and are less plaque retentive.