23 May Find a nice smile
What are the facets?
The facets are thin strips, made of an aesthetic material (composite or ceramic) that are placed on the outside face of the tooth. They make it possible to replace restorations on the unsightly anterior teeth or to embellish the smile in a lasting way by modifying the contour, the colour and the shape of the anterior teeth.
In which case can I make facets?
The facets are an essentially aesthetic treatment: if the tooth is not healthy (decay) or highly dilapidated, it will be better to restore it with a dental crown. Indeed, the crown restores the totality of the tooth thus allowing to reinforce it while the facet only covers only the visible external face.
Facet laying is indicated when:
- Lighten the colour of teeth on which dental bleaching would not be effective enough
- Change their shape when they are too narrow or a piece is broken
- Improve the appearance of misaligned teeth or close spaces between teeth, although it is advisable to consider first-line orthodontics
- Improve the aesthetics of already treated teeth with unsightly composite restorations.
How does this treatment work?
It requires at least two appointments. During the first visit, the dentist removes a layer of enamel under local anaesthesia and then takes the prints that will be used to make the facets. Temporary veneers are placed on the teeth and remain there until the next appointment. During the second visit, the final facets are tested and then placed on the teeth using resistant adhesive resin. You can choose between 2 materials: composite or ceramic more aesthetic and durable.
Does this technique damage your teeth?
The enamel layer removed is small (about 0.3 to 0.7 mm). This technique is very useful, thanks to the use of adhesives which are very resistant in time to fix a facet. Their solid surface allows a long-lasting hold of the hue and the result over the years.
However, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene and to carry out regular checks at your dentist because the risks of decay are not ruled out. In addition, facets are to be renewed every 10-12 years.
