Are you considering getting a set of veneers to give your smile an instant boost? If that’s the case, you’re not the only one– many people are becoming more aware of cosmetic dentistry’s advantages and aesthetic appeal. Dental veneers can help correct discolouration, chips, and gaps between teeth for a beautiful, natural-looking smile that feels comfortable. But before deciding on the veneers procedure, it’s essential to understand what goes into the process, from choosing the right materials to considering any alternatives. In this blog post, we’ll explain everything there is to know about having composite or porcelain veneers placed by a dental professional, so you can make a well-informed decision about which treatment option is best for you.
Overview of Teeth Veneers
Everyone wants an attractive smile, but only some are blessed with one naturally. That’s where dental veneers come in. Veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry option that can assist in improving the appearance of your teeth and give you the confidence to smile without hesitation.
Dental veneers are becoming quite popular as more and more people look for an easy way to improve the appearance of their smile. These thin, custom-made shells are formulated to cover the front surface of teeth, hiding any imperfections and creating a brighter, more uniform look. Dental veneers can address many concerns, from crooked teeth to gaps and uneven shapes, with minimal invasiveness.
And with advances in technology and material quality, modern veneers are more lifelike than ever, seamlessly integrating with the rest of your natural teeth. Veneers might be your solution if you want a more confident, radiant smile.
Advantages of Getting Teeth Veneers
This section will explore the benefits of getting dental veneers and what you can expect from the process.
Enhance your Appearance
Dental veneers are designed to improve the aesthetics of your teeth. They are custom-made to fit your teeth perfectly and are colour-matched to your existing teeth. This means that they’ll blend in seamlessly and look natural. The dental veneers also cover imperfections like crooked teeth, stains, chips, and gaps, giving you a beautiful, bright smile. With veneers, you’ll feel more confident showing off your teeth and smiling.
Low Maintenance
One of the major advantages of dental veneer procedures is that they require minimal maintenance. You don’t have to worry about special maintenance or care instructions; you can care for them like your natural teeth. Brush and floss regularly to keep your veneers and natural teeth healthy and clean.
Improve Bite Alignment
Veneers can also improve the alignment of your bite. If your teeth are misaligned or crooked, veneers can be used to correct the problem. Veneers can shift your bite into the correct position by covering up the teeth. This can improve your overall dental health and prevent headaches or jaw pain.
Quick and Painless Procedure
Quick and Painless ProcedureGetting dental veneers is a relatively quick and painless procedure. It typically takes two appointments to complete the veneers process; the first involves preparing your teeth and taking impressions for the veneers, while the second involves bonding the veneers onto your teeth.
The procedure is minimally invasive and usually doesn’t require anaesthesia. You’ll be able to see the results immediately, and the recovery process is quick too.
Types of Materials Used for Teeth Veneers
This section will explore the most commonly used materials in making dental veneers, their advantages, and their drawbacks.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain is the most commonly used material in the porcelain veneers procedure. Porcelain veneer has a similar texture and appearance as actual teeth and is highly resistant to stains. Custom porcelain veneers tend to last up to 15 years or more when properly cared for. However, custom porcelain veneers cost is quite expensive compared to other materials, and they can be susceptible to chipping or breaking if not handled correctly.
Resin Composite
Resin veneers are an alternative to porcelain veneers. They are made of a mixture of plastic and glass and placed directly onto the teeth. These veneers are cheaper than porcelain veneers and can be repaired easily if chipped or broken. However, they are much less durable than porcelain veneers and can become stained.
Steps Involved in the Process of Getting Teeth Veneers
In this section, we will walk you through the steps involved in the dental veneer procedure.
Step 1: Consultation
The first step in getting veneers is to consult a dentist. During the first meeting, the dentist will examine your natural tooth structure, take X-rays, and discuss your desired outcome. They will also explain the pros and cons of the veneer procedure and whether they are the best option for you. If you have any queries or concerns, this is the best time to discuss them.
Step 2: Temporary Veneers Procedure
The temporary veneers procedure involves tooth preparation, impression taking, placement of custom-fit veneers, adjustments, and care instructions. During the procedure, your dentist will remove a thin layer of enamel from your teeth before taking an impression to create temporary veneers that match the size and shape of your teeth. Once the veneers are placed and adjusted to ensure a perfect fit, you will be given instructions on how to care for them. This quick and easy procedure provides a great solution for those who want to enhance their smile while waiting for permanent veneers.
Step 3: Treatment Plan
After the consultation, the dentist will develop a treatment plan for you. This plan will outline the number of temporary veneers you need, the type of veneers suitable for your natural tooth structure, and the cost of the veneer procedure. You will also be informed about the tooth preparation process, which involves removing a thin layer of tooth enamel from your teeth to make room for the veneers.
Step 4: Preparation
Before the temporary veneers can be placed, the dentist will perform a tooth preparation procedure. This involves removing a small amount of tooth enamel from the front of your teeth so the veneers can be properly bonded. The amount of enamel removed is usually less than a millimetre. After the enamel is removed, an impression of your teeth will be made, which will be used to create the veneers.
Step 5: Veneer Placement
Step 5: Veneer PlacementOnce your veneers are ready, you will be called back to the dentist’s office to have them placed.
First, the dentist will fit the veneers to your teeth to ensure they fit properly and make any necessary adjustments. Then, they will clean and polish your teeth to prepare them for bonding.
Finally, the dental veneers will be bonded to your teeth with dental cement, and a special light will be used to harden the adhesive.
Step 6: Follow-Up
After your veneers process, the dentist will schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure they function as they should and that you are satisfied with the outcome. It’s essential to follow good oral hygiene habits, which include brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing, and visiting your dental hygienist regularly to ensure your veneers are durable for a long time.
Comparison Between Veneers and Alternatives
This section will explore some alternatives you should consider before deciding on teeth veneers.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is a popular and affordable alternative to veneers. This process involves removing stains and discolouration from your teeth to achieve a brighter, more youthful smile. While various over-the-counter whitening kits are available, professional whitening is more effective. In-office bleaching utilises bleaching agents, often with lasers or specialised lamps, to reduce discolouration and improve the brightness and evenness of your teeth. This option is perfect for people with mild tooth discolouration due to ageing and coffee or tobacco stains.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a simple and cost-effective alternative to dental veneer. This minimally invasive procedure requires the dental professional to apply a tooth-coloured resin to your teeth. The resin is carefully shaped to improve the appearance of your teeth. Dental bonding often repairs damaged or chipped teeth, closes gaps and improves tooth alignment. Dental bonding is not as durable as veneer but can be an excellent interim solution for people.
Invisalign
Invisalign is the preferred option for people concerned about their teeth’ position. This treatment utilises a series of clear aligners to move and align the teeth over time gently. It’s a comfortable, virtually-invisible alternative that can produce remarkable results without requiring invasive dental procedures. But it takes around 12-18 months to achieve your flawless smile.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are a viable alternative to veneers for people experiencing more extensive tooth damage. These are porcelain caps placed over the entire tooth to restore its appearance and safety. Dental crowns can be more robust and durable than dental veneer. Still, they’re also more invasive and will require the removal of a more extensive amount of tooth enamel.
Tooth Contouring and Reshaping
Tooth contouring and reshaping is a popular cosmetic solution that involves removing some of the enamel to reshape or resize your teeth. Tooth contouring can be an excellent non-invasive alternative that immediately improves your teeth’ appearance. However, it may not be ideal for people with more severe tooth damage or those seeking more dramatic results.
Cost and Insurance Coverage for Porcelain or Composite Veneer Procedures
The average cost of porcelain veneers ranges from £500 per tooth, while composite veneers cost starts anywhere from £250 per tooth. The total cost will depend on several factors, including the material used, the number of teeth you want to cover, and the dentist’s fees. Getting quotes from different dentists to compare prices is always a better idea.
One aspect to acknowledge is that the cost of veneers is an out-of-pocket expense, meaning it’s not usually covered by insurance. However, some medical and dental insurance plans may cover a section of the cost if the veneers are deemed medically necessary. For example, if you have severely damaged teeth that affect your ability to eat or speak, your insurance may cover part of the cost because you are the right candidate for veneers. Checking with your insurance provider before proceeding with the procedure is crucial.
Another option to consider is a dental discount plan, which can lower the cost of veneers by up to 60%. These plans are not insurance but a membership that gives you discounted rates at participating dentists.
If cost is a concern, composite veneers may be a more affordable option. They’re made of a composite resin material that is applied directly to the teeth and structured to match your teeth’ natural shape and colour. While their durability may not be like porcelain veneers, they’re still a great option for improving the appearance of your teeth.
Regarding veneer insurance coverage, it’s important to understand that it takes a lot of work. You’ll need to work with your dentist to submit a pre-treatment authorisation request to your insurance provider to prove you are the right candidate for veneers. This will include a detailed treatment plan and cost estimate.
Conclusion
All in all, teeth veneers are a viable choice for individuals who want to improve the appearance of their teeth or mask imperfections. Veneers can be constructed from porcelain or composite materials, and the process typically takes multiple sessions to complete. It is important to weigh all your options and discuss each in detail before deciding on your own approach. If you have any more queries on how veneers could benefit you and the cost associated with them, please don’t hesitate to call us at (02) 6188 7103 today!
References
Dental Veneers: Porcelain Veneer Uses, Procedure, and More
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/veneers
Veneers | healthdirect
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/veneers
