The Story
Veneers
Often people come into the clinic asking for "Veneers" but everyone has different idea as to what that actually means. No matter the interpretation people are asking for aesthetic improvement of their front teeth and smile. Under the umbrella of "Veneers" often falls the options of Composite Bonding, Composite Veneers, Ceramic Veneers or even in some cases Ceramic Crowns.
There are pros and cons to all treatment options and the best option is dependant on the condition of the teeth, the way the teeth bite together, your desired outcomes and costs.
Composite Bonding
Composite Bonding is chosen when a patient is happy with the colour of the teeth but improvements to the shape are needed. Composite resin (filling material) is added to the teeth to replace worn edges, broken areas or to increase the size of small teeth. The advantage of composite bonding is that most often it can be done without any preparation of the teeth and so is minimally invasive. A disadvantage is the composite material does wear, lose its shine and discolour with time.
Composite Veneers
Composite Veneers are chosen when a patient dislikes the colour of the teeth. To hide imperfections and discolouration a layer of composite (filling material) is placed over the front surface of the teeth, a bit like a fake nail. Depending on the situation they are done with or without preparation of the teeth (drilling). Preparation is needed if the required thickness of material covering the teeth will appear too thick, bulky and unnatural.
An advantage of composite veneers is that they can greatly improve aesthetics, be completed in a single long visit and are a lower cost option than ceramic veneers. A disadvantage is the composite material does wear, lose its shine and discolour with time.
Ceramic Veneers
Ceramic or Porcelain Veneers are chosen when the highest natural aesthetics are wanted. Each veneer is custom made by a dental technician to create pristine natural variation, colour and shape for a result that people won't believe is fake.
An advantage of ceramic veneers is that they are stronger and have a high shine finish that is plaque and stain resistant unlike composite resin. In some rare cases no preparation (drilling) of teeth can be done but in the majority of cases preparation of the teeth is required. Without modifying the underlying tooth the resulting veneers will appear too thick, big and bulky causing gum irritation, food trapping and fake looking teeth.
Crowns
Ceramic or Porcelain Crowns are chosen when teeth already have large fillings and the structure of the tooth is compromised. Ceramic veneers cover the front surface and tip of the tooth. Crowns encapsulate the whole tooth, front, back, top and sides. This is why it is sometimes referred to as a "cap". If a tooth has an existing filling that wraps around the back a veneer cannot be done and so a crown is chosen.
When treating multiple front teeth a combination of veneers and crowns can be done. Where possible veneers are chosen to conserve underlying structure but for heavily broken down or filled teeth crowns are used.
The Moral of the Story
There a many different treatment options to help improve the appearance of your teeth and smile and it is different in every case! The beauty of this is that there is a great treatment option that fits you. To find out what's best for your unique situation and more information about the various options visit us for a consultation.
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