Veneers can add symmetry and balance to your smile.

If you are dreaming of obtaining a perfect, yet natural-looking smile, dental veneers might be an option. Whether your teeth are chipped, cracked, discoloured, disproportionate, misaligned, worn or have gaps between them, veneers can help to enhance the look and function of your smile.

What is a dental veneer?

A porcelain veneer is a thin custom-made shell which is bonded to the surface of a tooth to instantly hide imperfections and to improve its appearance. Veneers can also be made from a composite resin, as a lower-cost alternative. However, they tend to attract stains and discolour over time. A porcelain veneer is a customised fit and colour with high stain resistance which creates a realistic and long-lasting result.

Your prosthodontist and dental technician work together to design and create your porcelain veneer shells to specifically fit your teeth. Veneers provide a more conservative and less-invasive approach to modifying the look of a tooth.

What are veneers made from?

Veneers are most commonly made from porcelain as it is durable, stain-resistant and natural-looking. Each individual veneer is carefully custom-made in Dr Chris Hart Prosthodontist’s on-site dental laboratory. This allows us to customise the colour, shape and texture to match with your existing natural teeth.

For us, creating natural-looking and seamless veneers is a top priority. In order to do this, Dr Chris Hart will gently remove a thin layer of the natural tooth, to allow the porcelain shell to fit snugly and evenly over its surface, without looking bulky or fake.

What is the difference between a veneer and a crown?

A veneer is a thin facing which is placed over the front of a tooth to change the way it looks. A crown is more extensive as it covers and strengthens the whole tooth. Usually, a crown is used in restorative dentistry for damaged teeth. Veneers, however, are more-so used for cosmetic reasons.

How long does it take to get veneers?

Dental veneers usually take around three appointments, to ensure perfectly shaped and natural-looking shells.

The first appointment will involve meeting your prosthodontist, who will thoroughly assess teeth. You will be able to discuss the precise look you are after, and address any cosmetic concerns you might have.

In your second appointment, your teeth will be prepared for the veneers.  This will generally mean gently filing and shaping the teeth, and is important as it ensures the final result is natural-looking and proportionate to the rest of your mouth. Moulds will also be taken of your teeth so your prosthodontist and dental technician can create your veneers accurately.

The final appointment will see your new veneers carefully fitted. You may wish to make some small changes and Dr Chris Hart will always ensure you are completely happy with the result. This final procedure is usually quite simple, so you will soon be showing off your dazzling new smile.

How long does a veneer last?

As front teeth are not generally used for chewing, porcelain veneers are long-lasting if properly maintained and looked after. You can expect your veneers to last over 10 years, however it is quite common to see veneers which are 30 years old. They are designed to be equally as durable as your natural teeth and can withstand all the everyday pressures such as chewing. Although porcelain veneers don’t stain, it is important they are cared for with the same attention to detail and care as you would give your natural teeth.

To find out more about how your smile could benefit from dental veneers, please contact our friendly team on: 03 9663 5264.