Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made porcelain shells that cover the front surface of discoloured, stained, misshapen, chipped, or slightly crooked teeth. Getting porcelain veneers typically involves various steps starting from the dentist examining your teeth to checking if you are a candidate for veneers. If your smile has issues that can be fixed with veneers, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth to create a mould of them.
This mould will then be sent to a dental lab to create custom veneers. Once your veneers are ready, your dentist will call you for the next appointment, during which they will remove a small amount of the enamel from the front surface of your tooth that requires veneer. This step is essential as it helps ensure the veneer fits properly and looks natural. After preparing your tooth, the dentist will apply a special cement to the veneer before placing it on your tooth. This cement will then be exposed to a particular light beam to activate cement chemicals and cause it to harden and bond well to your tooth.
Benefits of Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers offer several advantages, including:
- Improved Appearance: Appearance of teeth that are discoloured, stained, misshapen, chipped, or slightly crooked can be easily fixed with Porcelain veneers. Also, they can close wide gaps between two teeth and make them appear more uniform.
- Durability: Porcelain veneers are a robust and durable material that withstands daily wear and tear.
- Stain Resistance: Porcelain veneers are highly resistant to coffee, tea, and red wine stains.
- Natural Appearance: Veneers are custom-made to match the colour, size, and shape of your natural teeth, giving you a seamless smile.
- Minimal Tooth Reduction: In many cases, only a minimal amount of tooth reduction is necessary to place porcelain veneers, preserving more of the natural tooth structure than other cosmetic dental procedures.
- Long-lasting Results: With proper care, porcelain veneers can last for many years, providing a long-lasting solution for improving the appearance of your smile.
Porcelain Veneer Brisbane Cost
The cost of porcelain veneers may vary based on the number of veneers needed, the complexity of the procedure, the dentist’s experience and qualifications, and the location of the dental practice. Getting porcelain veneers may also include additional costs for consultations, X-rays, and other necessary dental work, such as tooth preparation.
Since Porcelain veneers are a cosmetic dentistry treatment, your insurance may not cover their cost. However, your dentist may often offer several financing options for porcelain veneers and other cosmetic dentistry treatments.
Some common financing options include:
- In-house payment plans: Some dental practices offer in-house payment plans that allow you to pay the cost of the treatment in instalments over several months.
- Third-party financing: Some dental practices partner with third-party financing companies that offer low-interest loans and flexible repayment plans.
- Health insurance: While most health insurance plans do not cover cosmetic dentistry treatments, some may provide coverage for medically necessary procedures, such as those needed to repair damaged or decayed teeth.
Porcelain Veneers – Are They Worth the Investment
Porcelain veneers are a significant investment. Whether or not they are worth it depends on your unique needs and goals. However, for many people, the benefits of porcelain veneers outweigh the cost.
Porcelain veneers are a durable, stain-resistant, and natural-looking solution for fixing issues with your smile. A beautiful, healthy-looking smile can positively impact your self-esteem, confidence, and overall quality of life. In addition, it can improve your personal and professional relationships and give you the confidence to pursue your goals and dreams.
The lifespan of Porcelain Veneers
On average, porcelain veneers can last 10 to 15 years, but their lifespan can vary depending on your oral hygiene habits and other factors. To maximise the lifespan of your porcelain veneers, you must follow a regular oral hygiene routine that includes brushing twice daily, flossing once daily, and visiting your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. It’s also important to avoid habits that can damage or wear down the veneers, such as chewing on hard objects, biting your nails, or using your teeth as tools.
Risks or Potential Complications Associated with Getting Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are generally considered a safe and effective cosmetic dental treatment. However, like any dental procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with getting porcelain veneers:
- Tooth Sensitivity: Some patients may experience tooth sensitivity after getting porcelain veneers, particularly if the veneers are placed close to the gum line. This sensitivity is typically temporary and can be managed with a special toothpaste.
- Gum Irritation or Inflammation: In some cases, the placement of porcelain veneers can cause irritation or inflammation of the gums. This can be caused by the material used for the veneers or by the teeth shaping to accommodate the veneers. Your dentist can monitor and treat any gum issues that may arise.
- Veneer Damage or Dislodgement: Although porcelain veneers are durable, they can sometimes be damaged or dislodged, particularly if subjected to excessive force or pressure. A veneer may need to be repaired or replaced if it is damaged or loose.
- Colour Matching Issues: A perfect colour match between natural teeth and porcelain veneers can be challenging, especially if you have severely discoloured or stained teeth. Your dentist will work to give you a natural-looking smile, but there may be slight differences in colour between the veneers and your natural teeth.
- Dental Decay: While porcelain veneers are not susceptible to decay, the natural teeth underneath them are still at risk.
Want an experienced dentist to apply dental veneers for you? Then, schedule an appointment with Hashtag Dentist Holland Park and take a step closer to achieving a beautiful smile. Read more about porcelain veneers on your guide.
