How to Choose The Right Type of Dental Veneers

Did you know that more than two-thirds of Aussies are self-conscious about their smile?  58% are reluctant to smile with their teeth, and over 2 million are not confident about how they look.

It’s no wonder people are looking into convenient smile makeover options to improve their smile and boost confidence. Dental veneers are one such option. It offers multiple advantages, helping you correct minor smile imperfections such as gaps, crookedness and discolourations with shorter treatments and lasting results.

If you’re interested in finding out more about dental veneers and how they can help enhance your smile, give our blog a read. It will educate you about the types of dental veneers, and what you need to consider before getting them. Read on to find out more. 

What are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells of tooth-coloured material that are used to cover the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. They can be made from porcelain, composite resin, or a combination of both.

Veneers are an ideal option for those looking to improve the appearance of their teeth, as they can help to hide discolouration, chips, cracks, and misalignment, improving the functionality and overall oral health as an added benefit.

Dental veneers are applied to the front of the tooth to change the shape and colour according to your smile goals. The tooth may be needed to be shaped and prepared for the bonding process by shaving off some of the enamel. Depending on the type of veneer you choose, it could either be applied directly to your tooth after shaping or be customised and applied in the second sitting.

Dental veneer application is a more challenging procedure than doing a dental crown as it requires more preparation beforehand. If not done properly, it can peel off shortly after. Dental veneers are useful for people who are not happy with the tooth colour or shape and have chips, gaps or slightly crooked teeth. 

Different Types of Veneers

The different types of veneers include:

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are the most popular type of veneers and are made from a thin layer of porcelain. They are highly durable, stain-resistant, and have a natural-looking finish. These veneers are custom-made and bonded to the front of the teeth, generally taking 2 visits.

Porcelain veneers are thinner than composite ones and require minimal shaping before bonding. Your teeth impressions are taken on the first visit and the veneers are applied on the second visit after they are ready.

Porcelain veneers are usually considered the best option because of their glossy texture and strength. They are also more expensive than composite veneers because of their material and customisation. Porcelain veneers usually last for 10 to 15 years with proper care. Once the life span comes to an end, they must be applied again. 

Composite Veneers

Composite veneers are made from a composite resin material and are bonded directly to the teeth. They are generally completed in one sitting, with your dentist gridding the tooth enamel to prepare for the bonding process. After the teeth have been prepared, the dentist will apply the resin and shape and layer it according to the desired shape and look. The composite veneers will then be hardened with a high-intensity light, giving you a new smile in only one sitting.  

Composite veneers, also known as composite bonding, are a good choice for people who want to make minor changes to their smile. They are more cost-effective than porcelain veneers but don’t look as glossy and stain more easily.  Composite veneers also have a shorter lifespan, lasting about 3 years as they are more prone to breakage and staining.

On the upside, they are less expensive than porcelain veneers and a lot quicker, giving you an instant smile makeover in just one sitting. 

Things to consider when choosing the type of veneers to use

Before deciding on the type of veneer you want, it’s advisable to consider several factors. They include:

Cost of treatment

When going for smile enhancements or any other cosmetic dentistry treatments, budget is the discerning factor. Therefore it’s best to compare the pros and cons of each type of veneer, comparing their short and long-term benefits to make the right decision.

For example, composite veneers may be cheaper, but they have a shorter life span and may break more easily. Is it better to make a one-time higher investment that lasts at least 10 years or more, or should you spend the same amount over a couple of years with reapplication and repair?

Timeline

How long does the veneer last? The life span of each veneer and the frequency of its repair and reapplication must be considered before deciding on the type of veneer you get.  

Pros and cons

List down the pros and cons of each type of veneer before moving forward. Which is more aesthetic and brings you closer to your smile goals? What are the maintenance costs and precautions of each type of veneer?

Porcelain veneers last longer and are custom-made, but they are more expensive. Whereas, composite is cheaper but has a shorter lifespan. 

Get advice from your dentist

If you are interested in changing the appearance of your teeth, it’s best to book an appointment with your dentist to discuss all the available options. Dental veneers may not be suitable for people who:

• Have gum disease or weakened teeth
• Grind their teeth as veneers can break
• Have multiple dental restorations
• Severe teeth misalignment
• Broken or damaged teeth

There may be other options that may suit your teeth better. Our dentists at Whitehorse Dental may be able to advise you on other cosmetic dentistry procedures to help you get the smile you want according to your teeth condition and preferences.

A consultation will ensure that you are aware of all the possible options for your smile, not only dental veneers, to make an informed decision.

Ready for your Smile Makeover?

If you’re thinking of getting veneers and are confused about where to begin, our friendly dentists can help. We understand that choosing the right smile treatment can be overwhelming. At Whitehorse Dental we offer a range of cosmetic dentistry options with a team of qualified dentists to guide you about each procedure. Whether you’re interested in dental veneers, crowns, teeth whitening or more, we’re here to assist you in any way we can, with honest advice and sincerity to give you the smile you’ve always wanted. Give us a call today.