What Are Dental Veneers? Our Complete Veneers Guide

Veneers are a popular, effective choice for transforming discoloured, misshapen, or damaged teeth.

Here, we’ll explain how veneers work, how much veneers cost, the types of veneers, the pros and cons of veneers, and how veneers can completely transform your smile.

What Are Veneers?

Dental veneers are thin, tooth-coloured shells made from porcelain, resin composite, and other materials. These coverings are custom-made to match the colour and shape of surrounding teeth. The veneer gets bonded to the visible surface of the selected tooth.

How Do Veneers Work?

Dental veneers work by covering natural teeth with a thin layer of porcelain or resin composite material. This shell is customised to match the colour and shape of surrounding teeth, creating a natural appearance and healthy looking smile.

Veneers also serve to protect the natural teeth they cover. The most popular option is partial veneers, which are only applied to problematic teeth.

Thanks to advances in veneer application and techniques, only a minimal layer of enamel needs to be removed from the selected tooth. This ensures as much enamel is preserved as possible so the tooth nerve is unaffected.

What Dental Issues and Conditions Do Veneers Address?

Veneers are commonly used to address a variety of cosmetic dental concerns, such as:

Minor misalignment
Small gaps between teeth
Crooked or uneven teeth
Stained or discoloured teeth (including stubborn stains, such as from medications, that can’t be addressed with typical teeth whitening)
Minor damage, chips, or cracks
Worn down teeth
Poorly shaped teeth
Decay
Overall appearance

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Dental Veneers?

Advantages of Veneers

Dental veneers offer a variety of advantages such as:

Improved Appearance: Veneers can completely transform your smile by addressing staining, misalignment, decay, small gaps, and other minor concerns
Personalisation: Veneers can be custom fit to your teeth and perfectly matched to the shape and colour of your natural teeth, creating a harmonised appearance
Resistance to Staining: Veneers, especially porcelain veneers, are resistant to stains and can help you enjoy a brighter overall smile
High level of Customisation: Veneers can be modified to match your needs, such as only getting veneers on the front top or bottom teeth that are the most visible
Restorative Qualities: Veneers can restore the shape and natural contours of eroded or worn-down teeth, leading to improved function and better oral health
Conservative Treatment: Veneers are less invasive than braces or crowns
Well-Tolerated: Veneers are well-tolerated by the gums
Low Maintenance: Maintaining veneers is fairly simple and involves attending regular dental checkups, practicing good oral hygiene, and avoiding habits that may damage veneers
Tooth Protection: Veneers can protect the surface of damaged teeth and reduce your risk of further decay, erosion, or wear and tear
Long-Lasting: Veneers can last for many years when properly cared for

Disadvantages of Veneers

While veneers can improve the appearance of worn, stained, or damaged teeth, there are disadvantages to be aware of:

They are not removable
Veneers are susceptible to damage, such as cracks, just like natural teeth
Teeth may become sensitive to hot or cold foods or drinks
Veneers are susceptible to decay
Enamel removal can damage underlying teeth if performed by an inexperience provider
Can result in bite changes if poorly fitted
Have a limited lifespan and will need to be replaced at some point

Types of Dental Veneers

Several types of veneers are available, with resin composite veneers and porcelain being the most common.

Each veneer type has pros and cons, which we’ll cover below. The best type of veneer for you will depend on the condition of your teeth, your goals and concerns, and your budget.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are made from high-quality ceramic material. They offer a translucent appearance that closely resembles how natural teeth reflect light. Porcelain veneers are well-known for their realistic appearance, durability, high resistance to staining, and long lifespan.

Benefits of porcelain veneers include:

Excellent light-reflecting properties that mimic the appearance of natural teeth
Resistant to staining
High level of durability
Longer lifespan than resin composite veneers

For a more in-depth look at the advantages of porcelain veneers, we recommend this resource: The Success of Dental Veneers According To Preparation Design and Material Type.

Composite Veneers

Composite veneers are constructed from a composite resin material. They require less prep work and can often be completed in a single visit.

Because they require fewer visits, composite veneers are generally less expensive than porcelain veneers. However, porcelain veneers have a longer lifespan, potentially making them more cost-effective in the long run.

	Porcelain Veneers	Resin Composite Veneers
Durability	Most durable, can last up to 10 to 15 years or more	Shorter lifespan than resin composite veneers
Stain Resistance	Highly resistant to stains	More susceptible to staining
Price	Higher price than resin composite veneers	Less expensive than porcelain veneers
Appearance	Mimic the appearance of natural teeth	Less natural-looking than porcelain veneers
Prep	Require more extensive prep work	Require less enamel removal and prep work
Timing	Requires three or more dental appointments	May be completed in a single visit in some cases
Adjustability	More difficult to modify or repair	Easy to modify, repair, or remove if necessary

What Is the Treatment Process for Veneers?

1. Initial Consultation

During your initial consultation, your dentist will discuss aesthetic goals, evaluate your oral health, and determine if you are a good candidate for veneers.

Your initial consultation is also an important time to discuss what to expect, including how long treatment will take. Porcelain veneers typically require at least four trips to the dentist. Resin composite veneers can be completed in a single appointment.

Your dental provider will also take X-rays or possibly impressions of your teeth and mouth to determine the best course of treatment.

2. Tooth Preparation

After your initial consultation, the next step of the veneer procedure involves tooth preparation. At this appointment, the enamel is modified to make space for the veneers. This may sound intimidating, but only a minimal amount of enamel is removed. Local anaesthesia is used to reduce discomfort and sensitivity.

3. Impressions

Once teeth are prepared, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth. This ensures the veneer shells are custom-made to precisely fit your teeth.

Your dentist will also discuss the colour of the composite or porcelain veneers. The goal is to match your natural teeth perfectly to create a seamless appearance.

The impression and details about your shade selection are sent to a lab so your custom veneers can be created. This usually takes about two to four weeks.

4. Temporary Veneers

As you wait for your veneers to be made, temporary veneers are placed to protect your prepared teeth. These temporary veneers will give you a good idea of how your final veneers will look and function.

5. Placement of Veneers

The final step is the placement of the veneers. After cleaning and etching your teeth, a dental bonding adhesive is used to anchor the veneer in place. After placement, the fit and colour of your veneers will be closely examined.

Your dentist will also assess your bite. Any adjustments will be made to ensure a natural appearance and comfortable fit. Finally, the veneer will be permanently cemented to your tooth.

How Do I Know If I Need Dental Veneers?

If you have discolouration, minor damage, or small gaps and want to transform your teeth into a bright, healthy smile, veneers may be a great option.

Good candidates for dental veneers will have:

Sufficient tooth enamel
Good oral health
Minimal decay
Healthy gums
A willingness to commit to long-term maintenance and avoid habits that damage veneers
Minor dental issues, such as discolouration that didn’t improve with teeth whitening or misshapen teeth

Dental veneers are typically not suitable for individuals with:

Active gum disease
Excessive tooth decay
Insufficient existing enamel
Weak, excessively damaged, or unhealthy teeth

Comparing Veneers vs Other Cosmetic Dentistry Options

Dental veneers are a popular choice when individuals have not gotten their desired results through teeth whitening, retainers, or other dental treatments.

Here is a quick look at how veneers compare to other popular cosmetic dental treatment options.

Veneers vs. Teeth Whitening

If discolouration is your big concern, professional teeth whitening or veneers are options to consider. However, veneers provide a more permanent whitening solution compared to the temporary results of teeth whitening. Veneers are also a better choice for intrinsic staining that may be resistant to traditional teeth whitening.

Veneers vs. Dental Bonding

Veneers and dental bonding can both transform your smile but veneers have a longer lifespan. Dental bonding lasts 5 to 10 years while porcelain veneers can last up to 15 years. Veneers are also considered more aesthetically pleasing

Veneers vs. Crowns

Crowns cover the entire tooth while veneers just cover the visible surface of the tooth. This usually means crowns are a better restoration option for teeth with severe decay or damage. Crowns also require more extensive preparation than veneers.

If you would like to discuss alternatives to veneers and find out which option is best for you, we’d be happy to discuss the options with you.

Costs Involved in Dental Veneers

The cost of veneers varies based on several factors, such as:

Number of veneers required
Type of veneers (composite resin veneers are the most affordable but do not have as long of a lifespan as porcelain veneers)
Condition of teeth
Complexity of the case
Dentist location and technology used

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between veneers, crowns, and implants?

Dental veneers, implants, and crowns can all improve the appearance of teeth, but here are a few key differences:

Veneers: A thin porcelain or resin composite shell cemented to the front of a tooth

Implants: An artificial tooth root that gets surgically placed in the jawbone to serve as an anchor for replacement teeth

Crowns: A cap that covers the entire tooth (as opposed to veneers which just cover the visible surface of the tooth)

Is it painful to get veneers?

Generally, getting veneers is not painful. During the prep process, a numbing agent is used during the enamel removal. You may experience some mild discomfort, sensitivity, and gum soreness after veneers are placed. Patients usually report feeling mostly normal by the following day.

How are veneers put on teeth?

Veneers are placed on teeth with a dental bonding adhesive. Once you are happy with the fit and appearance, veneers are permanently cemented in place.

How do I know if I’m a good candidate for veneers?

You may be a good candidate for veneers if you have healthy teeth and sufficient enamel and want to improve minor damage, misalignment, or staining.

Are veneers permanent?

Veneers are a long-lasting, durable solution for slight misalignments, decay, or discolouration. However, they are not permanent. Even with the utmost care, veneers will eventually need to be replaced. If longevity is your priority, porcelain veneers offer the longest lifespan.

Where can I get veneers?

Veneers are a common cosmetic dentistry treatment and are readily available at many dental offices. Working with a qualified, expert dentist reduces the potential disadvantages of veneers, such as poor fit.

Established over 3 decades ago, Tendler Dental is a leader in high-quality veneer services. We offer a range of dental veneer services in Hawthorn East and Melbourne for patients of all ages.

Are Dental Veneers Right for You?

Veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry treatment, offering the ability to address a variety of aesthetic concerns. If you are struggling with your confidence due to misshapen teeth, staining, gaps, or damage, we invite you to book a consultation. We can evaluate your teeth, oral health, and goals to determine if veneers are the ideal solution.

We love seeing the way a bright, healthy-looking smile can completely transform a person’s confidence. Contact our team today to schedule your veneer consultation and start your journey toward your best smile.

Oral Health Matters: Happy Teeth and Healthy Body

Oral Health Affects Your Overall Health

Join us in prioritising oral health a vital part of your overall well-being.

Dental Health Week

Mind, body, mouth: It’s all connected

From August 7th to 13th, 2023, Dental Health Week (DHW) will be held.

DHW stands as the Australian Dental Association’s (ADA) primary yearly campaign dedicated to promoting oral health. It is scheduled annually during the initial complete week of August.

This initiative underscores the significance of adopting measures to maintain the well-being of your teeth and gums, ensuring their longevity and preserving a confident smile throughout your life.

In the current year, DHW’s emphasis revolves around the intricate connection between oral health and overall bodily health.

Notable connections exist between oral ailments and various systemic diseases. Microorganisms present in the mouth can migrate to different parts of the body, while oral inflammation can contribute to overall bodily inflammation. Six medical conditions have been investigated for their associations with oral health:

Heart Disease
Diabetes
Alzheimer’s Disease
Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes
Lung Conditions
Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Dental Mouthguards

Participating in sport can be exhilarating and beneficial, promoting physical fitness, teamwork and confidence, however it’s crucial to prioritize safety during sport. One essential aspect of sports safety is the use of a professionally fitted mouthguard.

The mouth is highly susceptible to trauma during contact sports. Impact to the face can result in various dental and facial injuries, ranging from chipped or broken teeth, tooth loss, soft tissue damage and even more severe injuries such as concussion or a broken jaw. These injuries can require extensive and costly treatments to restore the mouth’s function and appearance.

At Tendler Dental we believe in caring for smiles on and off the sports field. Our professionally custom fitted mouthguards are created from molds of the upper teeth ensuring even occlusal contact. This gives a superior fit, comfort and maximum protection.

Don’t compromise on your dental safety during sporting activities. Contact us to schedule an appointment for a mouthguard fitting and ensure your teeth are protected while you enjoy your chosen sports.

Causes and Symptoms of TMJ Disorders

The cause of a TMJ disorder is often unknown, however various factors can aggravate a TMJ disorder such as:

Missing teeth
Grinding or clenching teeth which could be linked to stress
TMJ fractures or dislocation
Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis
Wrongly shaped dental fillings, crowns or bridges

TMJ disorders in different people can vary from mild to discomfort to severe pain. Symptoms of a TMJ disorder may include:

Limited jaw movement
Difficulty in mouth opening
A stuck or “locked” jaw
Clicking, grating, or popping noises from jaw joints
Pain when chewing
Pain in or around the ears and cheeks

Disorders of the Jaw Joint (TMJ)

The jaw joint is also known as the “temporomandibular joint”, or ”TMJ”. It can be felt by placing your fingers in front of your ears, and opening and closing your mouth. The joint allows the jaw to open, close, move side-side and forward. It is important for talking, chewing, and yawning.

A TMJ disorder may affect one or both joints often causing pain and limiting jaw function. Symptoms usually come about in early adulthood, but children and the elderly can also be affected.

Please keep an eye out for next week’s blog on more information about TMJ disorders.

Problems Caused By Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Infection
When an impacted wisdom tooth starts to erupt through the gum, an infection can start around the top of the tooth. Infection and inflammation (swollen, red gums) can cause pain, swelling and jaw stiffness.
Crowding
A wisdom tooth may push nearby teeth out of their correct position.
Pain
Pressure from the wisdom tooth may cause pain in the neighbouring tooth.
Cyst
If a wisdom tooth is not removed, a fluid sac called a cyst can form around the tooth and can damage bone, other teeth and the gums.
Ulcer
An upper wisdom tooth may push sideways out of the gum and can cause a cheek ulcer when it rubs against it.
Food Trap
Food becomes trapped between the wisdom tooth, and the tooth next door and can cause cavities in both teeth.

Wisdom Teeth: The Facts & FAQs

Wisdom teeth are also known as third molars. Wisdom teeth do not erupt through the gums until people are in their late teens, twenties or even older and are usually the last teeth to come through the gums. Most people have four wisdom teeth and some people have none. In many people, there is not enough space at the back of the jaws for wisdom teeth to erupt through the gums and if there is not enough space, the tooth will become wedged in or ”impacted”.

Some impacted wisdom teeth remain in place and cause no trouble, whereas other impacted wisdom teeth may cause severe problems. Often one or more wisdom teeth will cause problems and must be removed. If one (or more) of your wisdom teeth causes problems, your dentist may recommend that it be removed.

If your wisdom teeth are likely to be very difficult or complicated to remove, your dentist may refer you to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

Bruxism

Bruxism is excessive clenching or grinding of teeth that is not a part of normal chewing. It can result in excessive wear on the teeth and may cause permanent damage to teeth and jaws. Excessive clenching and grinding of the jaws are not healthy movements. In some adults and children, clenching may occur during the day or at night. When sleeping, they have no conscious control over excessive clenching and grinding.

Causes:
A combination of physical and psychological factors are believed to be contributing
factors, namely:

Physical stress such as illness, nutritional deficiencies or dehydration
Psychological stress and anxiety
Abnormal anatomy of teeth or jaws that results in an improper bite and can lead to
bruxism behaviour.

Signs and symptoms:

Tooth pain and sensitivity to hot and cold
Chronic facial pain with tension headaches from intense muscle contraction
Broken or chipped teeth
Loose teeth with possible damage to tooth sockets
Jaw stiffness and pain
Earache in jaw

The variations in the signs and symptoms reflects the strength of clenching and grinding involved in bruxism. Some people may experience tension-related headaches but may have little or no damage to their teeth or jaws and those who experience severe grinding may have damaged teeth and jaw problems.

Preventing and Controlling Periodontal Disease

To cure periodontal disease, or to control it:

Excellent oral hygiene must be maintained everyday
Bleeding from the gums caused by periodontal disease must be
reduced or stopped
Plaque and calculus on teeth must be treated
Gum pockets surrounding the teeth must be treated

As gum diseases tend to recur, maintenance therapy will follow periodontal treatment. Gum diseases can be prevented by taking good care of your teeth and having regular dental check-ups.

If the gums have responded well and oral hygiene has been good, a program will be implemented to maintain oral health. If the gums have not healed well, and there are still signs of disease, antibiotics may need to be prescribed. In severe cases, periodontal surgery may be required. If treatment is not done, the risk is that gum disease may get worse, leading to tooth loss.