Dental Veneers Process & Guide

Everything you wanted to know about getting dental veneers in Melbourne

Are you shy about smiling because it shows your teeth? Do you wish you could have perfectly white teeth?

If you’d like to correct imperfectly coloured or shaped teeth, dental veneers are an excellent choice. There are a few veneer options depending on your budget, needs, and the look you want.

Read on to find out how dental veneers can help restore the condition of your smile.

The Point Dental can help with your damaged or missing teeth. To learn about our dental veneers and whether they’re suitable for your situation, book a free consultation with one of our dental experts.

What are dental veneers?

Dental veneers are tooth-coloured thin shells attached to the front of teeth. They’re natural-looking and are used to improve the shape, colour and size of people’s natural teeth.

How much do dental veneers cost?

The cost of dental veneers depends on several factors including the kind of veneer (composite or porcelain) and how many veneers you require.

Why get dental veneers?

Veneers can improve your smile by remedying teeth that are irregularly shaped, misaligned, or uneven. Dental veneers are a popular dental intervention for improving the appearance of teeth that are:

• Misshapen
• Gapped
• Crooked
• Discoloured
• Chipped or worn
• Cracked or broken

Are veneers dental implants?

No. Implants replace missing teeth while veneers enhance healthy teeth. Dental implants involve extensive surgery, whereas veneers are a kind of cosmetic dentistry treatment.

What is the process for getting dental veneers?

Applying veneers is a simple procedure that involves no major surgery and it can be done in a few visits. Composite veneers can generally be done in one session, but the process for receiving porcelain veneers involves a few key steps:

1. Diagnosis

You consult with a dentist about what you’d like and what your treatment options are. A dentist may make impressions or take x-rays of your teeth and mouth.

2. Preparation

Your dentist trims the enamel on your tooth then makes an impression of it. Local anaesthetic can be employed to numb the area and avoid pain.

3. Creation

After your impression has been sent to a lab, the veneers will be created.

4. Bonding placement

To get your tooth ready for the veneer, your dentist will clean, polish and prepare your tooth.

5. Placement

A special cement is applied to the veneers and then they are placed on your tooth.

6. Adjustments

Your dentist will make any necessary final adjustments.

What are the different types of veneers?

There are two main kinds of dental veneers: composite resin and porcelain.

Composite resin veneers

Composite resin veneers can typically be placed in one appointment. These are more affordable than their porcelain counterparts, and last 4-8 years. But they will require greater maintenance since they are prone to chipping.

Porcelain veneers

Porcelain veneers can last up to 25 years and seldom require maintenance. The process can take several visits over several months to finalise.

What is the best type of dental veneer?

The veneer that is best for you really depends on your lifestyle, desired results, and budget. Both porcelain and composite veneers can offer an improved smile without invasive surgery.

Porcelain does look more natural and is renowned for its stain resistance and durability.
However, porcelain veneers do take longer to create and apply. Composite veneers, on the other hand, can generally be done in a single visit. Unlike porcelain veneers, they can be repaired if chipping or damage occurs. Composite veneers are also significantly less expensive than porcelain veneers.

Are there people who can’t receive dental veneers?

Veneers are ideal for people whose teeth have lost their whiteness and can’t be improved with bleaching, as well as those whose teeth are cracked or chipped. In short, they protect, strengthen and improve the look of imperfect but otherwise healthy teeth.

If you’re considering porcelain veneers, you need:

• Good oral and periodontal and health
• Necessary healthy tooth enamel
• Excellent oral hygiene including daily brushing and flossing

How long does it take to get dental veneers?

The length and number of visits depend on the number and type of veneers you choose. There can also be a waiting period while the veneers are manufactured.

Do dental veneers hurt?

Just like any dental treatment, you may experience discomfort in the course of the procedure for dental veneers. Local anaesthetic is used and most people find the process quick and easy. Some people do notice extra sensitivity after the veneer bonding, but this passes in a few days. If increased sensitivity persists, contact your dentist to resolve the issue.

What are the benefits of dental veneers?

Veneers require little maintenance and no major changes to existing teeth. Typically, they don’t involve as much removal of the tooth enamel compared to dental crowns. Other benefits conferred by veneers include:

• Enhanced self-esteem
• Improved self-confidence
• A natural smile
• Low maintenance
• Painless treatment
• Stronger tooth structure

Are there risks with getting veneers?

There are some risks involved though these are rare. Some individuals experience tooth sensitivity following the application of their veneers, typically when the veneers are exposed to hot or cold food or drink.

Dental damage might occur, as it can during any procedure. If so, your dentist will work with you to remedy any issues. Another matter to consider is that dental issues in the future might necessitate removing veneers.

These risks can be minimised by always selecting a trusted dentist and following their recommendations before and after the procedure.

Can veneers damage your teeth?

Veneers won’t harm or damage your teeth when applied by a trained dentist. In fact, they will do the opposite, offering your teeth greater protection.

How much do dental veneers cost?

The cost of porcelain veneers depends on several factors, like:

• The number of veneers you need
• The type of veneers you choose
• If you’ve got health insurance that covers dental procedures
• Whether you require sleep dentistry services

The Point Dental also offers interest-free finance options to allow you to easily obtain dental treatment.

Does insurance cover dental veneers?

Most health insurance doesn’t provide coverage for dental veneers because they’re regarded as a kind of cosmetic dentistry. But the good news is that The Point Dental has a range of flexible payment options.

How should I care for my dental veneers?

Dental veneers don’t require special care outside of good general dental hygiene: brushing your teeth at least twice each day, flossing regularly, using an antibacterial mouthwash, and visiting your dentist every 6 months.

It’s important to remember that, as with real teeth, veneers can be stained by smoking and coffee. If you want your veneers to match your natural teeth, you should avoid drinking coffee or smoking tobacco.

How long do dental veneers last?

With proper care and good hygiene habits, porcelain veneers can last 10 years or more and composite veneers can last for 4 – 8 years. Regardless of the material, your veneers will eventually have to be replaced.

Can a dental veneer come off?

Veneers are permanently bonded to your teeth so cannot come off. The things that can damage them are the same things that can damage your real teeth, like a bad bump or knock.

Are there foods you have to avoid when you have veneers?

Not at all. You can consume anything you would with real teeth.

Can dental veneers ruin your teeth?

Veneers will not damage or ruin your teeth if they are placed by an experienced dentist. Veneers can actually protect healthy teeth from erosion and attrition.

Dental veneers to replace missing teeth are a natural-looking, long-lasting solution. Book a free consultation with a Point Dental expert to learn about your options.