Laminate, or leaf porcelain veneer; are extremely thin but highly durable porcelain layers applied only to the front surface of the teeth. It is known as a “minimally invasive” aesthetic treatment because it is applied with minimal intervention to the natural structure of the tooth. Laminates are generally 0.3 – 0.7 mm thick and are specially designed to fit the tooth perfectly.
Thanks to leaf porcelains, aesthetic problems such as fractures, cracks, discoloration, deformities or gaps can be resolved in a short time and without damaging the tooth. At İşman Dental, laminate treatment is carried out together with digital smile design and is planned specifically for each patient.
Who is Laminate Suitable For?
Laminate application is an ideal option for anyone who is not satisfied with the aesthetics of their front teeth and is looking for a natural-looking, long-lasting solution. It provides very successful results for individuals whose teeth are not crooked but are malformed, spaced, broken or discolored.
For individuals who do not want to receive braces, have mild tooth misalignment, or are not aesthetically satisfied with their smile, laminate is a very effective alternative. However, if there are serious crooked teeth, gum disease, or bruxism (teeth grinding), these problems must be treated first.
How is Laminate (Leaf Porcelain) Applied?
Aesthetic Examination and Smile Analysis
The treatment process begins with a detailed examination and aesthetic analysis. The shape and position of the teeth, lip line, smile line and facial proportions are evaluated. The necessary measurements are taken with digital scanners to create a 3D smile design. In this way, the patient can see what kind of result they will get before starting the treatment.
Tooth Preparation (Or Impromptu Application)
In some cases, laminate can be applied without any abrasion on the tooth surface (prep-free). However, in most cases, a very small amount of abrasion may be required on the front surface of the tooth. This procedure is performed comfortably and painlessly under local anesthesia.
Impression Taking and Temporary Laminates
After the teeth are prepared, a digital impression is taken and sent to the laboratory. During this process, temporary laminates are installed to prevent sensitivity and aesthetic appearance.
Placement of Permanent Veneers
The prepared leaf porcelains are fixed to the teeth with special adhesives. Each laminate is meticulously checked to match the patient’s facial structure and tooth color. A natural and aesthetic smile is achieved thanks to the correct light transmittance, shape and color.
What are the advantages of laminate coating?
Laminate veneers are one of the aesthetic applications that least erode the tooth tissue and provide results closest to the natural tooth appearance. Despite their very thin structure, they are extremely durable. Thanks to their light permeability, they do not create an artificial appearance and look like natural teeth.
It is highly compatible with the gums, does not change color, and is resistant to factors such as cigarettes or tea and coffee. In addition, it is an indispensable part of aesthetic smile design, as it offers the opportunity to correct the shape, color and size disorders of the teeth at the same time.
How Long Does Laminate Application Take?
Laminate application is usually completed in 2 or 3 sessions. In the first session, examination, planning and measurements are taken. In the second session, a rehearsal is made, and in the last session, permanent leaf porcelains are applied. The total duration varies between 5 and 10 days on average. If gum treatment or additional procedures are required, the duration may be extended by a few days.
At İşman Dental, the process is planned according to the patient’s pace of life and information is provided at every step.
What Should Be Considered After Laminate?
After the laminate application, it is sufficient to pay attention to general oral hygiene. Teeth should be brushed at least twice a day, and cleaning should be supported with dental floss and interdental brushes. Very hard foods should be avoided in the first days, and shelled foods should not be bitten with the front teeth. The use of a night plate is recommended for individuals who have a habit of grinding their teeth.
Laminate veneers do not change color, but if the care of the surrounding natural teeth is neglected, aesthetic harmony may be disrupted. Therefore, regular check-ups should not be neglected.
Are There Any Risks or Limitations to Laminate Application?
Laminate application is very successful when done with the right case selection. However, it may not be suitable for every patient. Laminate application can be risky in patients with severe crooked teeth, advanced gum recession, large cavities or teeth grinding problems.
In addition, breaking very hard objects with teeth or applying pressure to the edges of the laminates may cause cracking or falling over time. However, these situations can be prevented with correct use and regular checks.
Laminate (Leaf Porcelain) Prices
Laminate prices may vary depending on the number of teeth to be made, the quality of the porcelain to be used, and additional procedures to be included in the treatment process. Compared to other aesthetic applications, it requires more advanced technology and delicate workmanship, so its cost is slightly higher.
At İşman Dental, a special smile design is prepared for each patient and pricing is done accordingly. For exact pricing information, detailed examination and digital planning are provided after the information is provided.