Composite Veneers

What Is a Composite Veneer?

A composite veneer is a layer of tooth-coloured composite material applied to the front surface of a tooth. The material is shaped and finished by the dentist to improve the appearance of the tooth.

Unlike porcelain veneers, which are made outside the mouth and then bonded to the tooth, composite veneers can be built directly on the tooth during the treatment appointment.

What Can Composite Veneers Be Used For?

Depending on your individual circumstances, composite veneers may be considered for teeth affected by:

• Discolouration or staining
• Minor chips or worn edges
• Small differences in tooth shape or size
• Minor gaps between teeth
• Uneven or irregular-looking teeth
• Cosmetic concerns about the appearance of individual teeth

Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums and consider your bite before deciding whether composite veneers are appropriate.

What Happens During Composite Veneer Treatment?

Treatment begins with a consultation to discuss what you would like to change about your smile. Your dentist will examine your teeth and assess whether composite treatment is suitable.

Where appropriate, the composite material is applied directly to the tooth and carefully shaped to create the desired appearance. The material is then hardened and polished.

Because the composite is placed directly onto the tooth, your dentist can shape the restoration during the appointment to achieve the planned result.

The exact treatment process will depend on the number of teeth being treated and your individual needs.

Benefits of Composite Veneers

For suitable patients, composite veneers can offer several benefits:

• Tooth-coloured appearance: Composite can be matched to the appearance of your natural teeth.
• Direct application: The material can be shaped directly on the tooth.
• Can address several cosmetic concerns: Composite veneers may be used to improve the appearance of tooth shape, colour and minor irregularities.
• Potentially less tooth preparation: Depending on the case, little or no removal of healthy tooth structure may be required.
• Individual treatment: The shape and appearance can be tailored to your teeth and smile.

Your dentist will explain what can realistically be achieved based on your individual teeth.

Composite Veneers or Porcelain Veneers?

Both composite and porcelain veneers can be used to address certain cosmetic concerns, but they are different types of treatment.

Composite veneers are shaped directly on the tooth using tooth-coloured composite material. Porcelain veneers are custom-made ceramic restorations that are subsequently bonded to the tooth.

The most appropriate option depends on factors such as your dental health, the teeth being treated, your cosmetic goals and your preferences.

During your consultation, your dentist can explain the differences and help you understand which option may be suitable for you.

Are Composite Veneers Right for You?

Composite veneers are not suitable for every patient. Your dentist will assess the health of your teeth and gums, your bite and the condition of the teeth you would like to improve.

If you have active tooth decay or gum disease, this may need to be treated before cosmetic treatment is considered.

Depending on your concerns, alternatives such as porcelain veneers, composite bonding, orthodontic treatment or teeth whitening may also be discussed.

Looking After Your Composite Veneers

Good oral hygiene is important for maintaining your teeth, gums and composite restorations. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth regularly.

Composite can be affected by staining and may also be damaged by excessive biting forces. Avoid using your teeth to bite hard objects and speak to your dentist if you clench or grind your teeth.

Regular dental examinations allow your dentist to monitor your composite veneers and the underlying teeth.