This is mostly a cosmetic procedure which involves adding on to the front of the teeth. This is especially useful if there is:

• staining of the teeth
• slightly misaligned teeth
• wear of the teeth

Each case will need to be assessed individually by Dr Coumbis to ascertain the suitability of veneers as there are certain cases in which veneers are contra-indicated. These include but are not limited to:

• grinding and/or clenching of teeth
• insufficient good quality enamel on the tooth
• highly restored tooth

In such cases, crowns may need to be considered as an alternative.
The two main materials used are:

• Composite Resin

  These can simply be placed on teeth with minimal, if any, loss of tooth. While there is a great improvement in the properties of this material in recent times, it can still be prone to staining over time.

• Porcelain

  This is a more cosmetic material which is highly unlikely to stain and generally lasts longer prior to the need to replace. Its disadvantages are that there is often a need to drill the tooth back approximately 0.5mm and it is more costly (3-4 times the price of composite resin).

Peregian Beach Dental has brochures that are available on request to help explain the above in more detail.