Dental Veneers in West Melbourne
A veneer is a thin shell that covers the front of a tooth to change its color, shape or appearance. Veneers can be made of porcelain or built directly from composite resin.
When veneers may be considered
Veneers may improve the appearance of stained, chipped, worn, uneven or gapped teeth when a more limited change will not meet your goals. They are not a substitute for treating decay, gum disease or a bite problem. Comparing less invasive alternatives is part of the decision.
Porcelain and direct composite
Porcelain veneers are made outside the mouth and bonded to the tooth, which typically takes more than one visit. Direct composite veneers are built and shaped on the tooth by the dentist, usually in a single appointment, and can be repaired more easily, though they may stain or wear sooner than porcelain.
What preparation involves
Often a thin layer of enamel is removed so the veneer sits naturally. This is generally irreversible: the tooth will need a covering from then on. Your options, including whether preparation can be minimal for your teeth, should be explained before you decide.
Benefits, risks and alternatives
Veneers can look natural and resist staining. Risks include sensitivity, chipping, a veneer coming loose, and added wear or damage if you clench or grind your teeth. A protective appliance may be advised. Veneers do not stop decay in the tooth beneath, so home care and exams stay essential.
- Whitening if the concern is only color
- Bonding for small chips or gaps
- Orthodontic discussion for crowding or bite concerns
Caring for veneers
Brush and clean between your teeth, avoid biting hard objects such as ice or pens, and keep regular visits. Veneers do not last a lifetime and may need repair or replacement. Although the veneer itself can be replaced, any enamel removed to prepare the tooth does not grow back.
Questions to settle before you decide
Ask how many teeth would be treated and why, how much enamel would be removed, and what the plan is if a veneer chips or comes off. Ask whether whitening first would change your goal, because veneer shade is chosen to match the whitened shade. Ask about the replacement cost, since veneers are not permanent. Expected costs are given in writing before treatment begins.
Common questions
Are veneers reversible?
Usually not when enamel has been removed. This is a key reason to compare alternatives first.
Can I get veneers if I grind my teeth?
Possibly, but grinding raises the risk of damage, so it is evaluated and managed first.
Porcelain or composite?
It depends on your goals, teeth and budget. We discuss both and give expected costs in writing.
Will I know the cost before treatment?
Dr. Bailey discusses your options and gives expected treatment costs in writing before care begins. Questions about cost are welcome at any point.
Will veneers look fake?
Appearance depends on shape, shade and fit, which are planned with you. A realistic discussion of what is possible for your teeth happens first.
Related care
- Cosmetic Dentistry — An overview of ways to change the color, shape and spacing of teeth.
- Teeth Whitening — Custom take-home trays and gel, with timing set for you.
- Dental Bonding — Tooth-colored resin for small chips, gaps and shape changes.
Dr. John T. Bailey, DMD · West Melbourne Dentist · 917 South Wickham Road, West Melbourne, FL 32904.
General dental education, not a diagnosis. Treatment recommendations depend on an individual examination.
Call (321) 723-0938 · Request an appointment · Meet Dr. Bailey & our approach · New patient forms