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Children’s DentistWhen you’re considering dental veneers, you probably want to know more about them – what they are, what benefits they offer, and how much they cost.
In this blog post, we’ll outline everything you need to know about dental veneers so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not they’re right for you. Keep reading to learn more!
Contents Navigation
- What Are Dental Veneers?
- Different Types of Dental Veneers
- What Are the Common Problems that Dental Veneers Can Address?
- Is Everyone a Good Candidate for Dental Veneers?
- What Happens During a Dental Veneer Procedure?
- What Can You Expect After the Dental Veneer Procedure?
- The Advantages of Getting Dental Veneers
- Are There Disadvantages in Getting Dental Veneers?
- How Many Veneers Are in a Full Set?
- Will Dental Veneers Need Special Care?
- How Long Does Dental Veneers Last on Your Teeth?
- How Much Do Dental Veneers Cost?
- Final Thoughts
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are very thin shells of tooth-coloured porcelain or composite resin.
Custom-made veneers are bonded to the front surface of teeth in order to enhance their colour, shape, size, and length.
Different Types of Dental Veneers
There are two main types of dental veneers: composite and porcelain.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are more popular because they are more durable and natural-looking than composite veneers.
Key features of porcelain veneers:
- They are made from a thin, semi-transparent material that mimics the natural appearance of tooth enamel.
- They are highly stain-resistant and can last for many years with proper care.
Porcelain dental veneers, however, are more expensive than composite veneers, requiring more tooth preparation before they can be applied.
Composite Veneers
Composite veneers are made of a slightly thicker resin material that is less expensive but not as strong or durable as porcelain.
Key features of composite veneers:
- They can be tinted to match the colour of your teeth.
- They can often be applied with very little prior preparation of the tooth.
However, composite veneers are not as stain-resistant as porcelain veneers and may not last as long. Composite resin veneers also generally provide a less natural-looking result than porcelain veneers.
Both types of veneers require some removal of tooth enamel before they can be bonded to your teeth. Once they are in place, dental veneers can last for many years with proper care.
Temporary dental veneers are also available and are typically made of acrylic or vinyl. These types of veneers can be a good option if you’re not ready to commit to the permanency of traditional veneers.
Your dentist will help you decide which type of dental veneer is right for you based on your smile goals and your cosmetic dental problem.
What Are the Common Problems that Dental Veneers Can Address?
Veneers can be used to correct a wide array of dental problems, including:
- Gaps or spaces between teeth:
Veneers can close gaps or spaces between your teeth to give you a more seamless, natural smile. It is done by attaching it to the natural tooth structure on either side of the gap. - Stained or discoloured teeth:
Veneers can be used to cover up discoloured or stained teeth. Dental veneers can help to conceal these imperfections and give you a bright, white smile. - Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth:
Veneers can be used to cover up chips, cracks, or breaks in your teeth. They can help to restore the function and appearance of damaged teeth. - Misshapen, malformed, misaligned, or crooked teeth:
Veneers can be used to change the shape, form, or alignment of your teeth. They can help to give you an illusion of a straighter, more uniform smile.
If you are considering dental veneers, it is important to consult a dental professional to see if they are right for you. For many people, veneers offer an excellent way to achieve a beautiful, healthy, and perfect smile. But depending on your unique situation, veneers may not be the best solution for your problem.
Is Everyone a Good Candidate for Dental Veneers?
There’s no doubt that dental veneers can give you a beautiful, Hollywood-worthy smile. But are they right for everyone? The short answer is: probably not. Here’s a rundown of who makes a good candidate for dental veneers:
You have healthy teeth and gums
To be considered a good candidate for veneers, a patient must have healthy teeth and gums. This means that you don’t have any active tooth decay or gum disease.
You’re willing to commit to dental hygiene
Dental veneers require special care and maintenance. You must be willing to brush and floss regularly and visit your dentist for routine cleanings and checkups.
You have realistic expectations
It’s important to have realistic expectations about what veneers can and cannot do. Veneers can give you a white, beautiful smile, but they won’t necessarily change your life. To help manage expectations, the first step is to know what goes on during veneer placement.
What Happens During a Dental Veneer Procedure?
If you’re considering dental veneers, it’s important to know what the procedure entails. Here’s a step-by-step overview of what happens when you get dental veneers:
- The first step is an initial consultation with a dental professional to see if dental veneers are right for you. They will assess your smile and discuss your goals for treatment.
- If you decide to proceed with dental veneers, the next step is to have your teeth prepared. The dentist will numb your gums and teeth with a local anesthetic. They will use a small dental drill for the removal of enamel from the tooth surface. This gives them enough room to place the veneer.
- Next, they will take an impression of your tooth (or get a digital scan). The impression or scan is sent to a dental lab where your veneers will be custom-made so that they will fit perfectly over your natural teeth. In the meantime, your dentist will place temporary veneers on your teeth.
- Once the dental veneers are ready (usually within 2-4 weeks), you will return to the dentist’s office for a second appointment.
- During this second appointment, they will remove the temporary veneers and check the fit of the permanent ones. If everything looks good, they will then clean, polish, and then lightly sand down the entire surface of teeth to create a rough texture that will help the veneers adhere. Etching your teeth will prepare them for bonding.
- Once your teeth are prepared, they will apply dental cement to the back of each veneer and then bond them to your natural teeth. With composite veneers, they may use a special light to cure or harden the adhesive.
- Finally, your dental professional will make any final adjustments and polishing of the veneers, ensuring that your new smile looks natural and beautiful.
The whole process may sometimes take up to three weeks from start to finish. Your dentist will give you information on how to take care of your dental veneers and what you can expect now that the procedure is over.
What Can You Expect After the Dental Veneer Procedure?
As with any dental procedure, there are some side effects that you may experience after having dental veneers placed. These side effects are usually temporary and should go away after a few days. However, if you continue to experience the side effects after a week or more, you should contact your dentist.
Some of the most common side effects of dental veneers include:
- Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
This is usually the most common side effect people experience after dental veneers. Your teeth may be sensitive to hot and cold temperatures for a few days or weeks after the procedure. This is because the dental veneer material is thinner than your natural tooth enamel.
However, the tooth sensitivity should go away after a few days, and your teeth should adjust to the new veneers. - Gum irritation
Another common side effect of dental veneers is gum irritation. The dental veneers may irritate your gums when they are first placed, but this should go away within a few days. - Discomfort
You may also experience some discomfort after having dental veneers placed. This is normal and should go away within a few days. - Temporary changes in bite
You may also notice that your bite feels different after having dental veneers placed. This is because dental veneers can change the way your teeth come together.However, this is only temporary; your bite should adjust within a few weeks. - Difficulty eating
You may also have difficulty eating for a few days after having dental veneers placed. This is because your teeth may be sensitive to pressure. However, this should go away within a few days. - Teeth grinding
You may also find that you grind your teeth more after having dental veneers placed. This is because dental veneers can make your teeth feel sharper. However, tooth grinding is only temporary and should go away within a few weeks.
It’s important to note that while there are some risks associated with dental veneers, they are generally considered to be safe.
If you’re worried about getting dental veneers, talk to your dentist about the risks and benefits. Because despite the potential side effects, dental veneers do come with advantages that far outweigh the risks.
The Advantages of Getting Dental Veneers
The Advantages of Getting Dental Veneers
- They look and feel natural:
Dental veneers are made of porcelain material, which is a strong and durable material. They are also generally thinner than crowns. As a result, dental veneers look and feel more natural than crowns. - They are stain resistant:
Dental veneers are less likely to stain than your natural teeth. This is because the porcelain used to make veneers is non-porous. - They are long-lasting:
Dental veneers can last many years with proper care. In fact, they may even last a lifetime. - They are low maintenance:
Dental veneers do not require special care or cleaning products. You can brush and floss them just like your natural teeth. - They provide instant results:
Unlike other dental procedures, such as braces, which can take months or years to achieve the desired results, dental veneers provide instant results. - They are a minimally invasive procedure:
Dental veneers require little to no tooth preparation before they can be applied.
While the advantages mentioned above are very appealing, it’s important to remember that getting dental veneers have disadvantages, too.
Are There Disadvantages in Getting Dental Veneers?
Veneers are one of the most popular dental procedures around. And it’s easy to see why. They can completely transform your smile, giving you a look you’ve always wanted. But there are also some potential disadvantages to getting dental veneers that you should be aware of before making a decision.
- They are not reversible:
Once your dentist bonds the veneers to your teeth, they are there for good. If you decide later that you do not like them or they aren’t working for you, your only option is to have them replaced. - They are expensive:
The cost of dental veneers can range from $500 to $1,000 per tooth, and insurance usually does not cover the procedure. - They are not a cure-all:
Veneers only cover up the existing problem. They will not fix underlying issues such as tooth decay or gum disease. - You could still develop cavities:
Even though veneers are bonded to your teeth, you can still develop cavities underneath them. Be sure to brush, floss regularly, and see your dentist for regular checkups. - They will not work on people with unhealthy teeth and gums:
The veneers will not last long on unhealthy teeth and may actually make the problem worse.
If you are thinking of getting dental veneers, it is important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. Discuss with your dentist whether they are right for you and how many you’ll need.
How Many Veneers Are in a Full Set?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how many dental veneers are in a full set. The answer depends on the number of teeth you want veneers placed on. A full set of veneers would typically include all teeth visible when you smile.
Most dental veneer treatments involve 8 to 10 veneers, but this can vary depending on the size and shape of your teeth. Some people may only want veneers on their top front teeth, while others may want veneers on all of their teeth.
You will work with your dentist to determine how many veneers you need to achieve your desired look.
Will Dental Veneers Need Special Care?
Dental veneers are made from durable materials and are expected to last many years with proper care. However, there are some things you can do to ensure that your veneers stay in good condition for as long as possible.
Here are some tips for taking care of dental veneers:
- Brush and floss your teeth twice a day:
This will help to remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums, which can cause damage to dental veneers. - See your dentist regularly:
Your dentist will be able to inspect your dental veneers and make sure they are in good condition. - Avoid biting or chewing hard objects:
This can damage dental veneers or even cause them to come off of the teeth. - Avoid using harsh toothpaste or whiteners:
These products can damage dental veneers. - Be careful when eating sticky or chewy foods:
These types of food can pull at the bond between your tooth and the veneer.
If you take care of your dental veneers, they can last for many years. However, it is important to note that they may eventually need to be replaced.
How Long Does Dental Veneers Last on Your Teeth?
Many patients ask us how long dental veneers will last. The answer depends on the type of veneer and how well you take care of your teeth.
Porcelain veneers are more durable than composite veneers and typically last 10-15 years before they need to be replaced. Composite veneers are made of a softer material and usually only last 5-7 years.
Dental veneers aren’t necessarily cheap, so it’s important to take good care of them to ensure they last a long time.
How Much Do Dental Veneers Cost?
The cost of dental veneers varies depending on the type of veneer, the dentist, and the dental lab. Porcelain veneers are typically more expensive than composite veneers.
The average cost of porcelain veneers is $1,500 to $2,500 per tooth. The average cost of composite veneers is $550 to $1,500 per tooth.
Most dental insurance plans don’t cover cosmetic treatment procedures like dental veneers. However, some dental plans may cover part of the cost if dental veneers are considered medically necessary.
Be sure to check with your dental insurance provider to see if your plan covers dental veneers before you get the procedure done. Some dental clinics also offer flexible payment plans.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to dental veneers, there’s a lot to know. In this article, we’ve covered everything you need to know about dental veneers, including the benefits, the procedure, and the cost.
So, veneers may be the recommended choice if you’re looking for a dental treatment that can give you a beautiful and natural-looking smile in as little time as possible.
Karrinyup Dental Centre offers different types of veneers so that we can cater to your specific needs. If you’d like to learn more about how veneers could improve your smile, or if you have other dental concerns, please book a dental appointment through our website or call us at (08) 9341 6233 today.
Our team will be happy to answer any questions you have and help get you started on the road to a brighter smile!
