Forget the latest fashions: a gorgeous smile is one of the best accessories anyone can possess. If you’ve wanted to achieve a photo-ready smile, you may have considered veneers. Many patients come to us wondering if these custom tooth coverings might be the solution to their cosmetic dental concerns.
What Exactly Are Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are created in a dental laboratory and require two visits. On the other hand, composite resin shells can be applied directly to your teeth in a single visit. Porcelain ones resist stains better and mimic natural teeth more closely, but composite options are less expensive.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Veneers can address a variety of cosmetic concerns, making them suitable for patients with:
- Teeth that are discoloured and resistant to whitening treatments
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Misaligned, uneven, or irregularly shaped teeth
- Worn-down teeth
These custom shells aren’t right for everyone, though. Ideal candidates should have good overall oral health with no active gum disease. They should also have healthy enamel, realistic expectations about the results, and a commitment to maintaining good oral hygiene.
What Are the Benefits and Drawbacks?
Veneers offer natural-looking aesthetic improvement, stain resistance, durability when properly cared for, and a conservative approach compared to crowns. However, they come with a higher cost and involve an irreversible process because of enamel removal. Some other potential drawbacks: they may cause increased tooth sensitivity, will eventually need replacement, and aren’t suitable for severely damaged teeth.
What Does the Process Involve?
Getting veneers typically involves a consultation with Dr Chen, tooth preparation (removing about 0.5mm of enamel), taking impressions, and bonding the coverings to your teeth. For porcelain veneers, you may receive temporary coverings while your permanent ones are being crafted. Recovery is minimal. Some patients experience slight sensitivity for a few days.
Frequently Asked Questions
With proper care, porcelain shells typically last 10-15 years, while composite veneers usually last 5-7 years. To maximise their lifespan, maintain excellent oral hygiene, visit our practice regularly, avoid using your teeth as tools, and consider wearing a nightguard if you grind your teeth.
Are there alternative cosmetic dental treatments?
Yes; depending on your specific concerns, you might consider our Phillips Zoom! whitening technology for staining. Dental bonding is ideal for minor chips and gaps, crowns for severely damaged teeth, or orthodontic options for alignment issues. Dr Chen and our team will provide options that best suit your individual needs.
A Sensational Smile Starts Here
Ready to get a beautiful, more self-assured smile? Contact Dental On Falconer today to schedule a consultation with Dr Chen.
CONTACT US
* Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.