Dental veneers are a versatile cosmetic treatment that effectively addresses various aesthetic concerns.
They are commonly used to enhance the appearance of teeth that are discoloured or stained and do not respond well to teeth whitening. Veneers are also suitable for restoring chipped, cracked, or broken teeth and improving the shape and alignment of irregularly shaped or misaligned teeth. They can also close uneven or excessive gaps between teeth, resulting in a more balanced smile. With their custom-made shells, veneers offer a natural-looking solution, enhancing the overall appearance of your teeth.
However, only some are considered suitable candidates for the treatment. In this blog, we’ll review the factors we assess during a consultation to determine a candidate’s suitability for dental veneers.
What are dental veneers?
Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells typically made of porcelain or composite resin bonded to the teeth’ front surface. They are designed to improve the appearance of teeth by altering their colour, shape, size, or length.
How we assess suitability for dental veneers
Whether you are a good candidate for dental veneers is best decided through a consultation with one of our qualified dentists.
As a guide and to know what to expect, here are some factors that we will discuss during your consultation.
- Oral health: Your oral health is crucial in determining your candidacy for dental veneers. Your teeth and gums should be healthy and free from decay, gum disease, or active infections. Any existing oral health issues should be addressed and resolved before considering veneers.
- Tooth condition: Dental veneers are typically used to address cosmetic concerns, such as discoloured, stained, chipped, or worn teeth. Veneers can also help improve the appearance of mildly misaligned or irregularly shaped teeth. Alternative treatments may be more appropriate if you have significant tooth decay, extensive damage, or severe misalignment.
- Sufficient enamel: Dental veneers are bonded to the front surface of teeth. To ensure a strong bond, it’s essential to have enough enamel. If your teeth have worn enamel due to grinding, acid erosion, or other factors, your dentist may explore alternative options or recommend enamel strengthening procedures.
- Bite alignment: Veneers can improve the appearance of mildly misaligned teeth, but they are not a substitute for orthodontic treatment in severe crowding or malocclusion cases. If your bite alignment issues are significant, you may need another treatment before considering veneers.
- Commitment to oral care: Dental veneers require regular maintenance and proper oral hygiene practices. Committing to regular brushing, flossing, and attending routine dental check-ups is essential to ensure the longevity and health of your veneers.
- Gum health and position: Your gum tissue’s health and function can affect dental veneers’ outcome. If you have gum disease or an uneven gum line, it may be necessary to address these issues before considering veneers. Suppose your gum line needs to be higher or more stable. In that case, it can impact the aesthetics of the final result, and your dentist may suggest gum contouring or other procedures achieve a pleasant smile.
- Realistic expectations: It’s essential to have realistic expectations about the outcome of dental veneers. While veneers can significantly improve the appearance of your teeth, they are not meant to completely alter your natural tooth structure or create a “perfect” smile. Your dentist will help you understand veneers’ possible results and limitations based on your situation.
During a consultation, your dentist will assess your situation and discuss your dental goals. We will consider factors such as your oral health, tooth condition, and aesthetic desires to determine if dental veneers are the appropriate treatment option for you. We can also discuss alternative treatments that better suit your needs.
Remember, each case is unique, and the final decision regarding your suitability for dental veneers should be made in consultation with one of our team members, who can provide personalised recommendations based on your specific circumstances.
Oasis Dental in the Gold Coast, Brisbane and Pottsville
At Oasis Dental, our team is dedicated to delivering the latest advancements in dental procedures to ensure your teeth contribute to your overall well-being. We take pride in creating a welcoming environment where you can comfortably discuss your dental concerns and goals. Through personalised care and open communication, we work together with you to achieve the results you desire.
We stay updated with the latest developments in dentistry, constantly improving our knowledge and skills to offer you the most advanced procedures and techniques. Whether you need preventive care, cosmetic dentistry, restorative treatments, or more, our comprehensive range of services caters to your specific dental needs, helping you achieve and maintain your ideal smile.
To experience patient-centred care at Oasis Dental, contact us to schedule your consultation and discover how our team can assist you in reaching your dental goals.
