Composite Veneers

Composite veneers, or ‘bonding’ is the cosmetic process of applying high quality resin to the surface of the front of the teeth to improve colour, shape and shine.

Composite Veneers

Veneers are applied to the front (visible) surfaces, usually of the upper teeth, in order to improve their appearance, lustre and colour.

Veneers are made of either composite resin (Bonded/ direct veneers) or from porcelain (ceramic/indirect Veneers). At Pymble Dental Practice we’re skilled in both of these materials and procedures, so we can apply the best method to suit your dental situation.

Composite veneers are also called bonded or direct veneers. They are made from a type of filling material called composite resin. Composite resin is also used in filling back teeth, but when used as a cosmetic treatment, we choose resins with high lustre, ‘polish’ability and with a wide colour range.

What problems can veneers solve?

Whilst they are largely a cosmetic therapy, they’re also used to:

  • Disguise misshapen or broken-down teeth.

  • Change the shade or colour of badly stained, yellow or discoloured teeth

  • Close spaces or correct crowding

  • Improve the smile by changing the amount of tooth showing in your smile, in symmetry with the lip lines.

What is the process of having bonded composite veneers?

Consultation:

  • A discussion and examination will help our dentists understand your goals with the cosmetic treatment.

  • At this appointment we will discuss alternative options so you can be assured that we are giving you all the necessary information you need before embarking on changing or improving your smile.

  • This appointment will also help us discuss shape, colour and size of your desired teeth.

  • We will take photographs of your smile and teeth and discuss the possible limitations and what bonded veneers could achieve. All the costs and payment plans are also discussed at this visit.

Treatment:

  • Treatment involves a minimal amount of tooth preparation (smoothing and reducing the enamel surface), under local anaesthetic, so when the veneers are applied they don’t look bulky and unnatural.

  • Once the tooth is prepared, the enamel is washed and dried with a bonding agent, then the composite resin is applied in increments and with different shades and translucencies to mimic a natural lifelike look.

  • The teeth are then polished to a high shine, and adjustments can be made with patient feedback along the way.

Advantages of Composite resin veneers

  • Cheaper than porcelain veneers

  • Relatively minimally invasive

  • Single visit

  • In the right hands, they can look very natural

  • Relatively durable

  • Polishable at subsequent appointments

  • Repairable

Disadvantages of Composite resin veneers over porcelain veneers

  • Chip more frequently

  • Can absorb stains over time

  • Lose their shine over time and need to be polished

  • Not as aesthetic as porcelain veneers

  • Do not last as long as porcelain veneers

FAQ

What problems can veneers solve?

Whilst they are largely a cosmetic therapy, they’re also used to:

  • Disguise misshapen or broken-down teeth
  • Change the shade or colour of badly stained, yellow or discoloured teeth
  • Close spaces or correct crowding
  • Improve the smile by changing the amount of tooth showing in your smile, in symmetry with the lip lines.

How long will it take?

After a consultation and discussion about colour, shape and style; there are two appointments about 2 weeks apart required to prepare the teeth, bond temporaries and then, cement the final products. The process of having veneers fitted normally involves a few appointments;

Are Veneers my best option?

Porcelain veneers are an irreversible procedure. Veneers should not be used as a blanket solution for the cosmetic treatment of every patient. The initial consultation will involve a discussion about all other options.

Some alternative options to veneers include:

  • Whitening
  • Bonding
  • Orthodontic treatment
  • Gum lifts

Veneers can be used in conjunction with these options to help achieve a beautiful smile that looks natural.

Does the procedure hurt?

The procedure is done under local anaesthetic so it is not expected to be painful during its preparation. There may be some tenderness and sensitivity of the tooth and gums following, however usual over-the-counter pain relief is more than enough to control such inconveniences.