What are dental veneers, and how do they work?
Dental veneers are dental restorative options that bond to front teeth, helping create an unforgettable smile.
Each veneer is thin and comfortable, yet strong enough to last. The customised layer hides imperfections and damage, transforming the appearance of the tooth.
Two types of veneers are available to you:
- A composite veneer, also referred to as a same-day veneer. Formed by hand by the dentist, a layer of dental filling material is bonded to your tooth.
The more affordable choice, this process requires only a single appointment.
- A ceramic (porcelain) veneer sees the dentist conservatively prepare your tooth by removing a very small portion of enamel. A laboratory made ceramic facing is later added to the front of the tooth. On occasions no tooth shaping is required and the ceramic veneer can be cemented to the untouched natural tooth.
A mould is taken, ensuring your veneers perfectly enhance the unique nature of your smile. The ceramic veneer process requires two appointments.
While composite veneers are budget-friendly and deliver a fantastic smile makeover, overall ceramic porcelain veneers are more stain-resistant and durable.
Porcelain veneers also allow light through, bringing an even more natural feel to the finish of your veneers. This option is priced at a higher cost then composites.
Great care is taken to make sure veneers look and feel as natural as possible. Each veneer is custom shaped before application to suit your mouth, and your smile.
While veneers can be removed in the future, it is generally not recommended. Portions of tooth enamel were likely cleared during placement.
Why choose dental veneers?
Many famous people sport veneers, offering stunning smiles for the camera. Veneers improve the aesthetic of your front teeth, and the appearance of your smile.
This form of cosmetic dentistry has become increasingly common in everyday life. Upgrading your smile with veneers can positively impact your self-confidence.
Veneers transform stained, chipped or uneven teeth. They can assist with the spacing of your smile, addressing gaps and minor crowding, as well as misshapen or discoloured enamel.
In some cases, veneers offer an easier and faster solution for aesthetic change than braces. But for certain orthodontic issues, braces may still prove more appropriate.
For a few small improvements, composite veneers become the budget-friendly choice. If considering a more intensive makeover, ceramic veneers might be your best option.
Oral health is important to the process. Occasionally, additional work is needed before considering veneers, especially if dealing with tooth decay or complex dental issues.
For example, if your gums are prone to bleeding, the cause will need to be investigated and addressed before veneers can be introduced.
In terms of colour, veneers are matched to surrounding teeth. If you want to brighten all of your teeth, it’s best to do so before veneers are placed.
We may recommend a whitening treatment first. This way, natural surfaces and veneers will blend together smoothly when you smile, being perfectly matched.
Veneers cannot replace missing teeth. They need a decent foundation on which to attach the material. Our dentists will explore other options with you if a veneer is not viable.
Keep in mind, a veneer is different to a crown. A crown focuses on the whole tooth, concerned with improving the performance of your bite and strength of the tooth as much as appearance.
Veneers fall under cosmetic dentistry. Addressing the appearance of the front of tooth, veneers have an aesthetic focus. This is a minimally invasive process.
A veneer is a simple way to improve the look of a tooth whose appearance bothers you in the mirror, but every smile has different needs.
One or two veneers may be enough to perfect your smile. In other cases, all front teeth may need veneers. Our dental team will discuss the best path forward.
Are veneers permanent, and how long do they last?
Yes, veneers of both types can provide a lasting result.
To keep veneers in place for as many years as possible, a consistent oral hygiene routine is important, including regular dental cleaning appointments.
The good news is, you can eat and drink with ease, knowing your veneers are trustworthy. Today’s veneers are strong and designed to emulate and support everyday use of teeth.
Consumption habits and the potential for staining are worth taking into consideration. Composite veneers are at risk of absorbing stains as the years pass.
If you smoke or imbibe red wine on a daily basis, ceramic porcelain veneers might be a better choice, the material being resistant to stains.
Taking steps to avoid risking damage to veneers is also a good idea. Protect that smile. Make it a habit not to apply extreme or reckless pressure to veneers.
In short, avoid using your teeth to open things. Reach for the scissors first. If a veneer does end up requiring repair or replacement in the future, our dentists can help.
For those prone to grinding teeth, we recommend an occlusal splint. A nightguard will work wonders, helping protect veneers while you sleep.
What is the cost of veneers in Perth?
A direct composite veneer can cost between $395 to $595 per tooth. A better ceramic veneer can cost $1900 to $2195 per tooth.
Please note these costs can vary depending on how many teeth are treated together at one time. We also have plans available that may better suit your budget.
If uncertain which veneer to choose or are weighing cost versus results, the Aardent Dental Centre team can answer your questions about advanced dental artistry in Perth.
While composite veneers are more affordable, they are more at risk of requiring small repairs or replacement over the years, compared to the performance of ceramic veneers.
If additional recommendations are made, our team can outline those costs. Whitening treatment prior to application and an occlusal splint for post-dentistry care are common.
In certain cases, veneers may not be suitable. Our dental experts can determine whether veneers will meet your needs. Where necessary, alternate dentistry options can be explored.
If the condition of your smile is impacting self-confidence, speak to us about possible veneers. Book a consultation with our vic park dental surgery to discuss the process.
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