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Porcelain Laminates
Porcelain Laminates are exceptionally thin custom fabricated porcelain shields that are bonded with composite resin to the surface of the intended teeth. They are treatment planned for various reasons, such as
- To repair a decayed tooth for maximum esthetics
- To repair a fractured tooth for maximum esthetics
- To correct poor tooth alignment ( rotation, tipping, out of arch , overlapping)
- To correct poor tooth color due to age or genetics
- To close spaces
There are now 2 types of laminates available.
They can be either laminates where tooth structure is slightly removed or newer ones that are fabricated without any tooth preparation. Both of these may cover just the facial surface of the tooth or more if necessary. The laminates are 3/10ths of a millimeter thick but can be thicker if a tooth has to be built up. The decision of whether to prep or not is discussed between the patient and doctor and is based on multiple criteria such as tooth sensitivity, fear of tooth treatment and what condition is being corrected.
Laminates are secured (bonded) to the teeth by a multiple step procedure that uses a fluid plastic as the glue. For a good result the bite of top and lower teeth is very important. You may eat just about anything but you should be aware that what can affect a natural tooth can also effect a bonded laminate e.g. hard or frozen foods, dark foods, sweet foods. Normal brushing with a proper diet will help provide you with laminates that will last many, many years.
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