Veneers can transform your smile and boost your confidence. These thin shells of porcelain or composite resin are custom-made to fit over your teeth, hiding imperfections and creating a beautiful, natural-looking smile.
You might be a good candidate for veneers if you have healthy teeth and gums but want to improve the appearance of your smile, especially if you have minor issues like broken teeth.
Many people choose veneers to fix cosmetic issues like discoloured, chipped, or slightly crooked teeth. They’re also great for closing small gaps between teeth. But veneers aren’t right for everyone. Your dentist will need to check your oral health and discuss your goals before deciding if veneers are the best option for you.
Getting veneers is a big decision. It’s important to understand what’s involved and whether you’re an eligible candidate. If you’re considering getting veneers then you would benefit from a consultation with our cosmetic dentistry experts.
Eligibility for Veneers
Getting veneers can greatly improve your smile, but not everyone is a suitable candidate. Your dentist will assess several factors to determine if veneers are right for you.
Criteria for Veneer Candidates
Good candidate fit for veneers typically have:
- Healthy teeth and gums
- Enough tooth enamel to support veneers
- No habits like teeth-grinding or nail-biting
You might be a good fit if you want to fix:
- Stained or discoloured teeth that don’t respond to whitening
- Chipped or worn teeth
- Slightly crooked or misshapen teeth
- Small gaps between teeth
- Misaligned teeth
Your dentist will chat with you about your dental concerns and smile goals. They’ll help you decide if veneers are the best choice for your needs.
Limitations and Risks
Veneers aren’t right for everyone. They may not be suitable if you have:
- Very crooked teeth
- Large gaps between teeth
- Extensive tooth decay or gum disease
- Very thin tooth enamel
- A habit of grinding or clenching your teeth
There are some risks to consider. Veneers are permanent, as some enamel must be removed. This can’t be undone. Veneers can chip or break, though this is rare. They may need replacing after 10-15 years.
Sensitivity to hot and cold is common at first but usually goes away. Good oral hygiene is crucial to keep your natural teeth healthy under the surface of the tooth and veneers.
Types of Veneers
Veneers come in different materials and styles to suit your unique dental needs and preferences. Each type offers distinct benefits and can be customised to match your natural teeth.
Porcelain Veneers vs Composite Resin
Porcelain dental veneers are thin shells made from strong ceramic material. They’re very durable and resist staining well. These veneers look quite natural and can last 10-15 years with proper care. The tooth surface is prepared by reshaping and trimming the enamel to match the thickness of the veneer, ensuring effective bonding during application.
Composite veneers, also known as composite resin veneers, use a tooth-coloured plastic mixture. They’re less expensive than traditional porcelain veneers and can be fitted in one visit. While not as long-lasting, they’re easier to repair if damaged.
Both types can improve your smile by changing the colour, shape, and size of your teeth.
Advantages of Each Material
Porcelain veneers shine in their strength and natural look. They’re highly resistant to stains from coffee, tea, or smoking. Their glossy surface mimics real tooth enamel beautifully.
Composite resin veneers are quicker to apply and cost less. They need less tooth enamel removal, making them a more reversible option. You can also get them repaired easily if chipped.
Both materials can be shaped and coloured to match your other teeth perfectly.
Determining the Best Fit
Your dentist will help you choose the right veneer type for your needs. They’ll look at factors like your budget, desired results, and oral health.
If you want a long-lasting solution and don’t mind a higher cost, porcelain might be best. For a quicker, more affordable fix, composite resin could work well.
Your lifestyle matters too. If you drink lots of coffee or red wine, porcelain’s stain resistance might be ideal. The shape of your teeth and any existing dental work will also guide the choice.
Considerations of Getting Veneers
Getting veneers is a big decision that affects your smile and wallet. You need to think about several factors before choosing this dental treatment.
Long-Term Implications
Veneers are not reversible. Your dentist must remove a thin layer of enamel from your teeth to fit them. This means you’ll always need some type of covering on those teeth. Veneers can last 10-15 years with good care. After that, you’ll need to replace them.
Veneers don’t stop decay. You still need to brush and floss daily. You should avoid biting hard objects like ice or pen caps. This can chip or break your veneers.
Some people feel more tooth sensitivity after getting veneers. This usually goes away in a few days. If it doesn’t, talk to your dentist.
Alternatives to Veneers for Discoloured Teeth
If veneers aren’t right for you, there are other options to improve your smile. Teeth whitening can brighten your teeth for less money. It’s not permanent, but it’s much cheaper than veneers.
Dental bonding uses a tooth-coloured resin to fix small chips or gaps. It’s less expensive than veneers and doesn’t need as much tooth prep.
For crooked teeth, you might think about orthodontics. Clear aligners or braces can straighten your teeth without removing enamel.
Crowns are another option for badly damaged teeth. They cover the whole tooth and can be more durable than veneers for some people.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about dental veneers and cosmetic concerns about their suitability for this cosmetic treatment.
Are there specific criteria for being a suitable candidate for dental veneers?
You might be a good fit for veneers if you have healthy teeth and gums. Strong tooth enamel is key, as veneers need a solid base to attach to. Your teeth should be free from decay and gum disease. If you grind your teeth, you may need to wear a night guard to protect your veneers.
How often can you get dental veneers?
You can get veneers once your adult teeth have fully grown in. Most people only need to get veneers once, as they can last 10 to 15 years with proper care. After this time, you might need to replace them due to wear and tear or changes in your mouth.
What’s the typical cost for a complete set of dental veneers at Perth City Dental?
The cost of veneers can vary based on the number of teeth treated and the type of veneers used. At Perth City Dental we have a starting range from $300 for composite and $1200 for porcelain veneers. Book in with a cosmetic dentist now to find out your options.
If you think this is going to set you back financially, Perth City Dental is proud to be partners with Fund My Dental. A financial option that helps you pay in instalments, interest-free up to $2000.
We also accept all major health insurance funds and are preferred providers for HBF, Bupa & HCF.
Can existing dental conditions affect the eligibility for getting veneers?
Yes, some dental issues can impact your ability to get veneers. Tooth decay, gum disease, or weak enamel may need to be treated first. Large fillings or root canals might also affect veneer placement. Your dentist will check these during your exam and suggest any needed treatments before moving forward with veneers.
