All About Dental Veneers

All About Dental Veneers By Dr. Jon ( Junyi ) Ho | June 21, 2022

If you’re not happy with the appearance of your teeth, dental veneers may be a good option for you. In case you haven’t heard, dental veneers are all the rage these days!

Veneers are a great way to improve the appearance of your teeth without having to go through dental surgery or the long and tedious process of braces. But what exactly are dental veneers? How do they work, and what will they do for your smile?

In this post, we’ll answer your questions about dental veneers and help you decide if they are the right choice to achieve a beautiful smile. Keep reading to learn more!

What Is A Dental Veneer?

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A dental veneer is one of the many types of cosmetic dental procedures used to improve the appearance of teeth that are chipped, stained, worn down, misaligned, or have gaps between them. They can also be used as dental restoration and an alternative to dental crowns and teeth whitening. They also help protect your teeth from further dental damage.

Dental veneers are usually made from porcelain or composite resin materials. They are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover your teeth’ front surface. They help create beautiful smiles by hiding teeth blemishes, making them appear straighter, and whiter.

When Do I Need Dental Veneers?

In most cases, dental veneers are considered a purely cosmetic procedure and are not medically necessary. However, in some cases, they may also be used to protect a tooth that has been damaged by decay or injury.

Your dentist will most likely recommend getting veneers if you have the following dental issues:

Slightly Crooked Teeth

While some people are born with perfectly straight teeth, most have at least slight crowding or misalignment. There are several reasons why teeth may become crooked over time, including genetics, thumb sucking, and injury.
Crooked teeth can cause many problems, including difficulty in cleaning the teeth properly and an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Dental veneers are often used to address crooked teeth, as they can be used to disguise misalignment and give the illusion of straighter teeth.

Gapped Teeth

One of the most common reasons why people get dental veneers is to address minor gaps in your teeth. Regardless of the cause, gapped teeth can be addressed with traditional orthodontic treatment. However, it takes longer than the quick fix of veneers.

By bonding dental veneers to your existing teeth, your dentist can close up the gaps in your smile and give you the beautiful, healthy-looking teeth you have always wanted.

Teeth Discolouration or Staining

Teeth discolouration or staining is a common dental problem that can be caused by many factors. The most common cause of teeth discolouration is staining from food, drink, and tobacco products.

Other causes include certain medications, dental trauma, and aging. The good news is that teeth discolouration is usually manageable with professional dental cosmetic treatment.

Veneers can provide a way to cover up unsightly blemishes and give the teeth a brighter, more uniform appearance.

Chipped or Broken Teeth

Chipped or broken teeth are common dental problems that can occur for various reasons. Some of the most common causes include dental trauma, tooth grinding, and biting on hard objects. In most cases, chipped or broken teeth can be repaired with dental veneers. Veneers are a great way to disguise chips or breaks on teeth.

Irregularly-Shaped Teeth

Most people have teeth that are relatively uniform in shape and size. However, some people have irregularly shaped teeth due to a dental anomaly or trauma, which can cause many dental problems. Dental veneers are one way to address the aesthetic concern of irregularly-shaped teeth.

If you think you may need dental veneers, schedule a consultation with our dental professionals at Darch Dental Centre. They will be able to assess the status of your oral health and determine if veneers are right for you.

Common Types of Dental Veneers

If you’re considering dental veneers, you’re not alone. They’re a popular way to achieve a beautiful smile, and they can be made from either porcelain material or composite resin.

Let’s a take closer look at each one.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are made of thin pieces of porcelain that are bonded to the front surfaces of your teeth. They resist stains well and give you a bright, white smile.

Porcelain veneers are more durable than composite veneers and provide a more natural-looking result. However, they are also more expensive and require more preparation of the tooth or enamel removal before they can be applied.

Composite Resin

Composite resin veneers are made of a dental composite material bonded to the front surfaces of your teeth. They can be used to correct a wide variety of dental problems, including chipped teeth, cracked teeth, and unevenly spaced teeth.

Composite veneers are less expensive and require minimal tooth preparation, but they are not as durable as porcelain veneers and may not resist staining as well.

What Happens During Dental Veneer Procedure?

The dental veneers process generally takes two separate appointments with the dentist.

First Visit

The dentist will assess your need and suitability for dental veneers during the consultation appointment. Once you have established that you will be getting dental veneer, your dentist will clean your teeth to remove plaque and tartar that may affect your veneer placement.

Depending on the type of veneer you’re getting, a layer of enamel will be removed to make room for the veneer material. Next, an impression of the teeth will be made. This impression will be sent to a dental laboratory, where your veneers will be custom-made to fit your mouth.

Second Visit

Your second visit will be scheduled once your veneers are ready. First, the dentist will check to ensure the veneers fit properly. If they do not, they may need to be trimmed or shaped before being attached.

Once the veneers fit correctly, the prepared teeth will be etched with an etching solution to allow the veneers to be properly bonded with the teeth. Once the teeth has been properly etched, the veneers are bonded using a special bonding cement, and a light cure may also be used to harden the adhesive and secure the veneers in place.

Follow Up Visit

After the veneers are attached, you may need to make additional visits to the dentist for follow-up checkups. This will give the dentist a chance to check how well the veneers are attached and ensure you are comfortable with them.

You should take care of your veneers just as you would your natural teeth. Be sure to brush and floss regularly and see your dentist for regular checkups.

How Long Can Dental Veneers Last on Teeth?

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In general, dental veneers are considered to be a very durable dental restoration. With proper care, they can last for many years and help you maintain a beautiful smile.

On average, dental veneers can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years before they need to be replaced. Some people have even had their dental veneers last for 20 years or more.

However, it is important to remember that veneers are not indestructible. They can chip or break if they are hit hard enough. Additionally, the adhesive used to attach veneers to your teeth can eventually break down.

The lifespan of dental veneers depends on several factors, including the type of veneer used and your oral and dental hygiene. Therefore, the key to getting the most out of your dental veneers is to take good care of them.

How To Take Care Of Your Veneers After Receiving Them

Veneers are also strong and durable, and they can last for a long time with proper care. Here are some tips on how you can properly take care of your dental veneers:

  • Brush your teeth twice a day. Be sure to use a soft toothbrush and avoid abrasive toothpaste.

  • Floss daily to remove plaque and food debris from between your teeth.

  • Visit your dentist regularly for examinations and dental cleanings.

  • Avoid biting or chewing on hard objects such as ice or candy, as this can damage the veneers.

  • Do not use your teeth as tools for opening packages or bottles.

  • Wear a mouthguard if you play sports or participate in other activities where there is a risk of dental injury.

By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your dental veneers will continue to enhance your smile for years to come.

Does Getting Dental Veneers Hurt?

Dental veneers are a popular way to improve teeth’ appearance, and many people wonder if they are painful to get. The short answer is that dental veneers typically don’t hurt. However, getting dental veneers can be uncomfortable for some people.

During the procedure, dental veneers are applied to the front surface of the teeth. To do this, the dentist must first roughen up the tooth’s surface so that the veneer can adhere properly. This part of the procedure can cause some discomfort as it involves sanding down the tooth. However, this part of the procedure is usually quick and relatively painless.

Once the tooth’s surface is prepared, the dentist will apply a bonding adhesive to help adhere the veneer to the tooth. Again, this part of the procedure can cause some discomfort as it involves using a strong adhesive on the tooth. However, once the dental veneer is in place, it should not cause any pain or discomfort.

Overall, dental veneers are not painful to get. However, some people may experience some discomfort during the procedure. If you have any concerns about pain or discomfort, be sure to discuss them with your dentist before getting dental veneers.

Benefits Of Getting Dental Veneers

Aside from aesthetics, the other benefits of veneers include:

Durability:
Dental veneers are durable and can last many years with proper care.

Natural-Looking:
Dental veneers can give you a natural looking smile because they can be matched to the exact shade of your existing teeth.

Stain-Resistant Properties:
Dental veneers are designed to be highly stain-resistant, so you can enjoy your favorite foods and beverages without worrying about staining your teeth.

Confidence Boost:
If you have been hiding your smile because you are embarrassed about your teeth, dental veneers can help you feel better about yourself.

Ease of Maintenance:
Dental veneers are easy to take care of and require the same basic oral hygiene practices as your natural teeth.

Addresses Numerous Dental Issues:
Dental veneers can be used to address a wide variety of cosmetic dental issues. Dental veneers may be the right solution for you if your teeth are misshapen, discoloured, chipped, or have gaps between them.

If you’re considering dental veneers, talk to a professional dentist about all your options and what would be best for you. Getting dental veneers is a big decision, but it can be a great way to achieve a healthy smile and improve your confidence.

Are There Restrictions On What I Can Eat With Dental Veneers?

While dental veneers are very durable, they are still prone to damage if they aren’t properly cared for. As a result, there are some restrictions on what you can eat with dental veneers.

Here are some important things to remember:

  • Hard, sticky, and chewy foods can damage the veneers, so it is best to avoid candy, nuts, and candy.

  • Be careful with acidic foods and beverages, as they can cause the veneers to discolour.

  • Limit intake of alcoholic beverages or avoid them entirely since they can harm the cement that bonds the veneers to your teeth.

With proper care, dental veneers can last for many years. However, it is important to keep in mind that they may need to be replaced sooner if you do not take care of them properly.

Who Is A Good Candidate For Porcelain Veneers?

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If you are thinking about getting dental veneers, it is important to know if you are a suitable candidate for this dental procedure.

The following are considered suitable for porcelain veneers:

  • If you are in good overall dental health with one or more dental concerns

  • Dental veneers may be a good option for you if you have stained or discoloured teeth. They can be used to cover up stains that cannot be removed with dental whitening treatments.

  • If you have chipped or broken teeth, dental veneers can also be used to repair the damage and improve the appearance of your smile.

  • Dental veneers can also be used to correct these problems if you have misaligned or misshapen teeth.

  • If you are unhappy with the appearance of your smile, porcelain veneers may be a good option for you.

If you are considering porcelain veneers, schedule a consultation with an experienced dentist. During the consultation, your dentist will evaluate your dental health and discuss your goals for treatment. Together, you can decide if porcelain veneers are the right treatment option for you.

Are There Disadvantages with Dental Veneers?

While dental veneers are an excellent option for most patients, there are some disadvantages to consider before you make a decision.

Irreversible Procedure

Dental veneers are not reversible. Once they are bonded to your teeth, the tooth cannot be brought back to its natural structure. This means that you will need to be careful with your dental hygiene, and you will need to avoid anything that could damage your veneers.

Cost

Dental veneers can be expensive. The cost of the procedure will vary depending on the number of veneers you need, but it is typically a more expensive option than other dental procedures.

Not Permanent

Dental veneers do not last forever. They may last for several years, but eventually, they will need to be replaced.
Despite these disadvantages, dental veneers can be a great option for patients. If you are considering dental veneers, discuss all of the risks and benefits with your dentist before making a decision.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a fast and easy way to give yourself a smile makeover, veneers are for you. Veneers can be applied in just two dentist visits, and they’re one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments today.

At Darch Dental Centre, we offer a wide range of veneer options so that you can find the perfect fit for your needs. Schedule a dental consultation with us today to get started on your smile transformation.

You can book an appointment through our website or call (08) 9303 9770 to talk to one of our friendly dentists about your dental needs.

Dr. Jon ( Junyi ) Ho

Dr. Jon is a Perth-based dentist who graduated with a Bachelor of Dental Science in 2005 from the University of Western Australia. He has worked at a range of dental practices, including being a partner and principal dentist for a group of five dental surgeries in Sydney. Dr. Jon has been practising for over a decade in the northern suburbs of Perth. He provides treatment for patients in Darch, Madeley, Landsdale, Kingsway, Kingsley, Marangaroo, Alexander Heights, Wangara, Ellenbrook, and others.

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