Definition and objectives

Facets are a cosmetic dental technique that allow for correction of defects in the shape and colour of front teeth.

A facet is a composite or ceramic film made up by a dental prosthetician. It requires minimal preparation of the tooth as it adheres to the tooth enamel. Temporary facets can be used between operations. The thickness of a facet is 5/10 to 1 mm depending on the case in question. Dental tissue is left intact and the main risk is that of detachment.

Prior to surgery

The parodont should be clean and healthy. Occlusion must be favourable. Teeth grinding is contraindicated for facets (considerable risk of detachment). The teeth should not have generalised intrinsic staining (e.g. stained by cyclins). Teeth should not have shape defects (short teeth, rice-grain appearance...). Teeth should not have localised internal staining. Teeth must not be malpositioned: rotation, inversion…

The operation

This operation is painless. Facets need 2 or 3 long sessions (1 to 3 hours):

- First session: your dental surgeon prepares your teeth and takes a mould. He then makes up and attaches temporary facets.

- Second session: the temporary facets are removed and attached away from saliva.

- A third session may be necessary in the case of cosmetic fitting.

Result

Facets are a cosmetic treatment bringing into play highly advanced and delicate prosthetic technology.

Because of the complexity of carrying out this technique, facets tend to be more expensive than ceramic crowns.

The cosmetic result is optimal due to the fully ceramic composition.