Veneers Process — Procedure, Benefits, and Costs for Your Teeth

Dental veneers are very popular for a smile makeover; knowing the process and how cosmetic dentistry has improved can alleviate any concerns you may have.

What Are Veneers?

Veneers are a type of dental restoration that can be used to improve the appearance of teeth. They are made from a thin layer of porcelain or composite material bonded to the existing teeth’ front surface.

Veneers can correct a wide range of aesthetic problems, such as teeth that are discoloured, chipped, or misshapen teeth. Some people may use veneers to correct one tooth, while others may opt for veneers on all of their front eight teeth. 

Porcelain veneers

The porcelain veneer is made from thin sheets of ceramic material. Porcelain veneers are often considered to be the most common and more durable option, as they are less likely to stain or discolour over time.

The Process of Veneers

The dental veneers procedure typically involves three steps: consultation, preparation, and placement.

Consultation

During the consultation, your dentist will determine whether you’re a good candidate for veneers or not.

If you don’t have any missing teeth in the place where you want to apply your veneers, gum disease, or tooth decay, and your enamel is healthy enough, then your dentist will start the tooth preparation, assess your teeth and discuss your veneer options with you.

They will also take X-rays and dental impressions to ensure that veneers are the right solution for you. 

Preparation

Once you have decided to proceed with veneers, your dentist will prepare your natural tooth structure for veneers by removing a small amount of tooth enamel from the front surfaces of your teeth. This is necessary in order to create room for the veneers.

Using the CEREC technology, you won’t need to have temporary dental veneers or wait for a few days to get your veneers prepared.

After your teeth have been prepared, your dentist scans an impression of your mouth using a high-resolution camera. the collected information is uploaded to the machine and turns into a 3D virtual model of your teeth.

Computer-aided design (CAD) technology will assist the dentist with designing the veneers and then sending the design data to the on-site milling machine for restoration.

Placement

In your next step, your dentist thoroughly cleans your teeth using a special tooth-cleaning gel. This is important, as it keeps bacteria from being trapped under the veneer and causing decay.

The tooth-cleaning gel also makes the teeth more susceptible to the rougher texture that is created by the grinding tool. This makes it easier for the veneer to stick to the tooth.

Your dentist will check your veneers’ colour, shape, and fit and then use dental cement to bond the veneer to the tooth. They’ll use ultraviolet light to harden this cement quickly.

Once in place, your veneers will be cleaned, polished, and checked to ensure that they fit properly.

This procedure takes between 8  to 18 minutes. So, the patient will have their natural flawless smile during one visit and without the need of getting temporary veneers; however, it might vary depending on how many veneers you’re going to apply.

It’s important to note that veneers are not reversible, and the enamel on your teeth will not grow back once removed. As such, it’s important to be sure that you’re ready to commit to veneers before going through with the procedure.

Dental Veneer Aftercare

After veneers have been placed, it’s important to take good care of them to ensure that they last. It is advisable to visit your dentist regularly, floss and brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush and avoid using teeth whitening products, as they may scratch your veneers, and avoid biting directly on hard foods, such as apples and carrots.

Veneers are stain-resistant; however, try avoiding dark-coloured foods, such as berries, coffee, and tea. Never use your teeth to open any packaging. If you grind or clench your teeth while sleeping, get a splint or retainer. This will protect your veneers. 

What are the advantages of dental veneers?

As a cosmetic solution, veneers offer a lot of advantages, including the following:

1. They can improve the colour, shape, and size of your teeth.
2. Veneers can cover up chips and other cosmetic flaws.
3. They are less invasive than dental crowns.
4. Veneers are durable and long-lasting with proper care.

What are the challenges of dental veneers?

Veneers may not be suitable for everyone, as they do come with a few disadvantages, such as:

1. Veneers are often expensive; however, the prices vary from practice to practice, and the outcome more than justifies the investment.
2. They require the removal of some enamel from the teeth, which is not reversible. 

How long do porcelain veneers last?

The lifespan of veneers depends on how you maintain your oral health and hygiene. Porcelain veneers generally last between 15 and 20 years.

How much do porcelain veneers cost?

The paramount price affecting dental veneers in Sydney is the type of veneer design you choose. For the most attractive outcome, most dentists suggest porcelain dental veneers.

Porcelain veneers are more expensive than composite ones, but they are also more efficient and durable. The cost of porcelain veneers can vary depending on how many teeth need to be applied and how complex the procedure is.

Porcelain veneers’ cost typically starts from $1,800 per tooth, and it can vary depending on the lab associated with customising your veneers.

It’s important to note that not all dental insurance plans cover the cost of porcelain veneers as they’re considered cosmetic dentistry. It’s always best to speak with your dentist and insurer.

Custom porcelain veneers can be a great way to improve the appearance of your teeth. With veneers, you’ll get rid of discolouration, chips, and other minor imperfections on the front surface of your natural teeth. You can achieve a brighter, more natural-looking smile in just a few visits.

So, do not hesitate to contact us, book an appointment, and get your consultation from our expert dentists.

Pyrmont: (02) 9158 6213
Illawong: (02) 9158 6756
Sylvania Waters: (02) 9159 6083

References 

Veneers
https://www.dentalhealth.org/veneers

Veneers
http://www.americancosmeticdentistry.org/veneers/

How much do veneers cost in Australia?
https://www.finder.com.au/health-insurance/veneers

CEREC – The power of technology
https://www.j-ips.org/article.asp?issn=0972-4052;year=2006;volume=6;issue=3;spage=115;epage=119;aulast=Kaur