Redefine Your Smile's Beauty with
Porcelain Veneers
in Atwell & Cockburn

Understanding the difference between composite veneers and porcelain veneers in Atwell is essential for anyone considering a gorgeous smile makeover. Both options aim to give you a vibrant smile, but they have distinct characteristics:

• Material composition:
  Porcelain or ceramic veneers are fabricated from a thin layer of porcelain, a type of ceramic. They’re lab-fabricated and are renowned for their ability to replicate the natural translucency of teeth, offering a beautiful, healthy smile that seamlessly matches your natural teeth.
  
  

  On the other hand, composite resin veneers are made from a composite resin material and are directly applied and sculpted onto the teeth. This treatment is performed chair-side and can be completed in a single dental visit.

• Durability and lifespan:
  In terms of durability and lifespan, porcelain veneers generally have an edge over composite veneers. They can last up to 10-15 years or even longer with proper care. They are also less prone to staining compared to their composite counterparts.
  
  

  Meanwhile, despite being durable, composite veneers generally last between five to seven years and might require more frequent maintenance or replacements due to potential wear and staining.

• Procedure:
  The procedures for both veneers also differ. Porcelain veneers usually require at least two visits to the dentist. The initial visit involves removing a thin layer of enamel from the front surface of teeth and taking an impression, which is then sent to a lab where the veneer is custom-made. During the subsequent visit, the veneers are bonded to the teeth.
  
  

  In contrast, composite resin veneers often only require a single visit, where the dentist applies the resin directly to the tooth, shaping it to precision to achieve a well-proportioned smile.

• Cost:
  Given the quality of the material and the intricate process involved, porcelain veneers tend to cost more than porcelain veneers, but the costs outweigh the benefits. In contrast, composite resin veneers, being more affordable, are a favoured choice for those seeking a cost-effective option to enhance their smile.
• Aesthetic outcome:
  In terms of aesthetics, porcelain veneers offer a more radiant and natural appearance. While composite resin veneers can look fantastic, achieving the same level of natural beauty as porcelain can be a challenge.

Ultimately, both types of veneers come with their unique set of benefits. Your final choice should be based on your budget, the desired aesthetic outcome, and the advice of dental professionals. Discussing your needs with an experienced dentist is important to determine the right option for your needs.

Achieving a radiant and symmetric smile with ceramic veneers is a meticulous process that helps patients receive a dental treatment tailored to their unique needs. In general, the veneer process is completed in at least two visits to the dental clinic:

• Initial consultation
  The initial consultation serves as the foundational step, where the dentist discusses the veneer process in detail, takes moulds and photographs of your teeth, and addresses any questions or concerns. This allows your dentist to provide a tailored treatment plan and sets the stage for subsequent dental appointments.
• Teeth preparation
  For those opting for porcelain veneers, the second visit is dedicated to preparing the teeth. Minimal reshaping is done to accommodate the veneers, and an impression is taken to be sent to the laboratory. This is followed by the placement of temporary veneers. In addition to protecting the reshaped teeth, these temporaries also offer a preview of the final result.
• Placement of porcelain veneers
  The third and final appointment is a transformative one. The temporary veneers are removed, and the custom-crafted final veneers are meticulously bonded to the teeth. Final adjustments will be made to achieve the right fit, leaving you with a vibrant smile that’s beautiful and confidence-boosting.

Due to the advancements in dental technology and the experience of dental professionals, porcelain veneers are able to replicate the natural translucency and appearance of real teeth.

Porcelain veneer has a light-reflecting property similar to natural tooth enamel. This means that they can replicate the depth and warmth of natural teeth, resulting in a symmetric smile that doesn’t appear artificial.

Additionally, veneers are custom-made for each individual. During the initial consultation, moulds and photographs of your teeth are taken in order to plan a treatment where veneers are customised to match the unique shape, size, and colour of your teeth. This customisation means the veneers will integrate seamlessly with your natural teeth, enhancing your smile without drawing unwanted attention.

While porcelain veneers are a durable option for enhancing a smile, they aren’t considered “permanent” in the sense that they last a lifetime. Generally, with proper care and maintenance, they can last between 10 to 15 years, sometimes even longer.

Over time, they may require replacement or adjustment due to natural wear or changes in the underlying tooth structure. Regular check-ups with a dental professional are necessary to maintain optimal condition of veneers and keep a vibrant, symmetric smile.

The integrity of the tooth underneath a veneer remains preserved. Only a minimal amount of enamel is removed during tooth preparation, leaving the nerves and roots untouched. With the veneer securely in place, the natural tooth continues to serve its purpose, acting as a sturdy foundation for the new veneer.

Generally speaking, natural teeth play a pivotal role in supporting the veneers, allowing individuals to flaunt better-looking teeth and symmetric smiles without compromising their health or structure.

Getting dental veneers is a fantastic way to achieve a vibrant smile. However, it’s essential to understand that while dental porcelain is resistant to tooth decay, cavities can still form behind and around the veneers.

If cavities develop, they can compromise the health of the underlying tooth and potentially affect the longevity of the veneer restoration. This emphasises the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene and having regular check-ups with dental professionals to keep the veneers and the natural teeth in optimal condition.

Porcelain veneers are highly regarded for their resistance to staining, making them a popular choice for those seeking a lasting and beautiful smile. The material used in porcelain veneers is non-porous, which means it does not absorb stains like natural teeth can. This is a significant advantage for maintaining a wonderful smile over the years.

However, good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are essential to maintain the longevity of the porcelain veneers and the health of the underlying teeth. While the veneers resist staining, the adhesive used to bond them can sometimes become discoloured, especially if exposed to substances like coffee, tea, or tobacco. Regular professional cleanings can help manage this so you can keep your smile in great condition.

To maintain your new smile, here are some types of foods and drinks you might want to limit or avoid:

• Hard foods:
  Biting into hard foods like ice, hard candies, or nuts can potentially damage veneers. It’s advisable to be cautious with these foods to prevent chipping or cracking.
• Sticky foods:
  Sticky foods, such as caramel or taffy, can exert undue pressure on veneers and cause them to become dislodged or damaged.
• Acidic foods:
  Acidic foods like lemons, limes, and certain sauces can erode the bonding agent used for veneers over time, potentially leading to weakening or staining at the edges.
• Alcoholic drinks:
  Regular consumption of alcoholic beverages can compromise the bonding material of veneers, affecting their durability and fit.
• Carbonated drinks:
  Similar to acidic foods, carbonated beverages, especially those that are coloured, can affect the adhesive and potentially stain the edges of the veneers.

While veneers are designed to be durable and stain-resistant, taking these precautions can help protect your beautiful smile for years to come. Regular dental check-ups and consultations with our friendly team at Atwell Smiles Dental allow your dentist to provide you with more personalised advice on maintaining your veneers.

Porcelain veneers are a significant investment in your appearance and confidence, so taking the proper steps to maintain them can make all the difference. Here are some helpful tips to keep your veneers in great condition:

• Regular oral hygiene:
  Just like your natural teeth, veneers require regular brushing and flossing. Use non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid scratching the porcelain.
• Avoid hard or sticky foods:
  As mentioned earlier, hard and sticky foods can damage veneers. Be mindful of what you eat and try not to bite directly into very hard foods.
• Limit staining substances:
  While porcelain veneers are resistant to stains, it’s still a good idea to limit exposure to substances like coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco to keep your smile in optimal condition.
• Wear a custom mouthguard if necessary:
  If you grind your teeth at night or play contact sports, wearing a mouthguard can protect your veneers from unnecessary pressure or impact.
• Regular dental check-ups:
  Regular visits to your dentist are essential. They can monitor the condition of your veneers, address any issues early, and provide professional cleanings.
• Avoid using teeth as tools:
  Avoid habits like biting nails, opening packages with your teeth, or chewing on pens, as these can place undue stress on your veneers.

By following these simple measures, you can be confident that you will get the most out of your dental investment.

Chipping or breaking a veneer can be a concern for anyone looking to maintain an improved smile. If you find yourself in this situation, here’s what you should do:

• Contact your dentist immediately:
  As soon as you notice any damage to your veneer, get in touch with your dentist. Prompt action is vital to preventing further damage and to keep the problem from worsening.
• Protect the area:
  Be gentle with the damaged veneer until you can see your dentist. Avoid eating hard or sticky foods on that side of your mouth, and continue to brush carefully to keep the area clean.
• Assessment and repair:
  Your dentist will assess the extent of the damage. If the veneer is only slightly chipped, it might be possible to restore it. However, if the damage is significant, the veneer may need to be replaced.
• Replacement process:
  Replacing a veneer involves taking a new impression of your tooth and having a new veneer fabricated. This process will help your smile remain well-proportioned and aesthetically pleasing.
• Prevent future damage:
  Your dentist can also provide advice on how to avoid similar incidents in the future, possibly recommending a mouthguard if you grind your teeth or play contact sports.

Remember, tooth veneers are durable, but they are not indestructible. Taking good care of them and addressing any issues promptly can help maintain the integrity and beauty of your smile makeover.

According to the Australian Dental Association, the price range for porcelain veneers generally ranges from $1,220 to $1,700. However, it’s important to note this is just an estimate and that several factors can influence the final cost:

• The complexity of your case:
  Each smile makeover is unique, and the complexity of your individual case can affect the price. This includes the number of veneers required and any additional dental work needed to prepare your teeth.
• Geographical location:
  The cost can also vary depending on where you live, as different regions have different pricing standards for dental procedures.
• Location of the tooth:
  The position of the tooth or teeth requiring veneers can impact the cost, with some positions being more challenging to manage than others.

We recommend scheduling a porcelain veneer consultation with our team at Atwell Smiles Dental to get a precise estimate tailored to your specific needs. During this consultation, our experienced team of dentists will explain the procedure in detail, provide an estimated cost, and offer all the information you need to make a smart choice. This personalised approach will help you receive a comprehensive smile treatment plan that aligns with your aesthetic goals and budget.

The level of cover for porcelain veneers can vary significantly depending on your specific health fund policy. Generally, porcelain veneers are considered a cosmetic dental procedure, and as such, they may not be routinely covered by many health fund providers. However, there are some instances where partial cover might be available, especially if the veneers are deemed necessary for restorative purposes rather than purely cosmetic ones.

To determine if your health fund will contribute to the cost of porcelain veneers, contact your health fund directly for clarification. They can provide specific information about what is and isn’t covered under your plan. Additionally, if you need help, our dental team would also be happy to assist in understanding the details of your health funds.

When considering teeth veneers, a healthy foundation is crucial for their effectiveness. Unfortunately, if you have gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, it’s not advisable to proceed with veneers immediately.

Veneers require healthy gums for proper placement and longevity. However, this doesn’t mean veneers are impossible if you have gum disease. Once your gum disease is effectively managed and your gums have healed, you can then explore the option of getting veneers.

It’s essential to work closely with your dental professional to address any gum issues first, creating a healthy mouth that can support veneers for a vibrant and symmetric smile.

While dental veneers offer a transformative option for enhancing smiles, it’s essential to be aware of both short-term and long-term risks associated with the procedure:

Short-term risks:

• Tooth sensitivity:
  This is a common dental experience following the placement of tooth veneers. The process involves removing a thin layer of enamel, which can lead to increased sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. While this sensitivity is generally mild and subsides within a few days, persistent discomfort should be evaluated by your dentist.
• Gum irritation:
  The enamel removal during veneer preparation can sometimes irritate the gum tissues, causing temporary swelling or bleeding. Additionally, the dental cement used to bond the veneer might also contribute to gum discomfort. These symptoms usually go away quickly, but proper dental care is essential during this period.
• Chipping or cracking of veneers:
  Veneers are designed to be resilient but not indestructible. Excessive force from teeth grinding or biting hard objects can lead to damage. Although it’s uncommon, it’s essential to be cautious and protect your veneers from potential harm.

Long-term risks:

• Veneer failure:
  Over time, veneers may wear down or become damaged, necessitating replacement. Regular check-ups can help to monitor the condition of your veneers and offer timely intervention if necessary.
• Tooth decay:
  Dental veneers are resistant to decay, but the underlying natural teeth are not. If the veneer is damaged or displaced, bacteria can accumulate and cause decay, emphasising the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene.
• Gum recession:
  In some cases, the placement of veneers can lead to gum recession, especially if the fit is not optimal or if there’s a history of gum disease. This can result in increased tooth sensitivity and other oral health issues.
• Tooth damage:
  Although rare, preparing teeth for veneers can sometimes damage the tooth structure, causing minor fractures or cracks. This risk underscores the importance of choosing a skilled and experienced dental professional for your veneer treatment.
• Complications from improper fit:
  Improperly fitted veneers can lead to bite issues, potentially causing TMJ disorders, characterised by pain or clicking sounds in the jaw joint.

It’s essential to have a detailed conversation with our team at Atwell Smiles Dental about these risks so we can tailor our approach to your unique situation. We’re here to offer advice on how to minimise these risks and achieve great results for your treatment.

Porcelain veneers are generally considered an irreversible treatment due to the process involved in their application. Placing veneers involves removing a thin layer of the tooth’s enamel to create room for the veneer and create a proper fit. This alteration to the tooth’s structure is not reversible, which means the tooth will always need some form of protection, like a veneer or dental crown, in the future.

Suppose a veneer needs to be removed, whether due to damage, decay or cosmetic reasons; it cannot simply be taken off and left as is. The exposed tooth will have an incomplete enamel and will be vulnerable. Therefore, it must usually be replaced with a new veneer or an alternative dental restoration, like a crown.

It’s important to thoroughly discuss your expectations and any concerns with our team before deciding on veneers. We can provide detailed information about the procedure, maintenance, and what to expect in the long term, helping you make the right choice about your dental care.