Cosmetic dentistry

Changing the Shape, Size or Shade of a Tooth

A veneer is a thin, custom-made facing bonded to the front surface of a tooth. Veneers can change the shape, size, alignment or colour of a tooth, and are often used across several front teeth to create a more even appearance.

Veneers are a significant commitment. In most cases some enamel is removed to accommodate the veneer, and that change is permanent. We will always explain this clearly before you decide.

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When Veneers May Be Considered

Veneers may be suitable for teeth that are:

  • Discoloured in a way that does not respond to whitening
  • Chipped or worn at the edges
  • Slightly crowded or uneven, where orthodontics is not preferred
  • Irregular in shape or size
  • Separated by small gaps

Veneers are not a solution for every situation. Where a tooth is heavily restored or structurally weak, a crown may be more appropriate. Where teeth are significantly out of position, orthodontic treatment often gives a healthier result than masking the position with veneers. We will tell you when that is the case.

The Process

Treatment starts with a discussion about what you would like to change, followed by an examination of your teeth, gums and bite. We use digital scanning and imaging to plan the case.

Once a plan is agreed, the teeth are prepared, a scan or impression is taken, and the veneers are made. At the fitting appointment we check the shape, shade and fit before bonding them in place, and adjust your bite so the veneers are not carrying uneven load.

The RayFace facial scanner at New’Gen Dental

Honest Advice About Longevity

Veneers do not last forever. Their lifespan depends on your bite, your oral hygiene, whether you grind your teeth and how much natural tooth structure supports them.

Veneers can chip or debond, and if a veneer fails it needs to be replaced, because the underlying tooth has been prepared. If you grind or clench, a protective splint is usually recommended.

We will explain the maintenance involved and the realistic lifespan before you commit, rather than after.

Function First

A cosmetic result that does not function well will not last. We assess your bite and jaw before beginning, and treat any decay or gum disease first, so the veneers have a healthy foundation.

Appointments

Book Your Appointment

To discuss veneers, call 03 5792 2055 or send us an enquiry.

Phone
03 5792 2055
Address
72 Anzac Avenue, Seymour VIC 3660
Hours
Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm

Wheelchair access is available at the rear of the practice. HICAPS is available for on-the-spot health fund claiming, so please bring your health fund card. We are a preferred provider for Medibank and Bupa, and we participate in Smile.com.au. Payment plans are available through DentiCare and Pretty Penny Finance.

Health funds

The waiting area at New'Gen Dental Surgery on Anzac Avenue, Seymour
Good to know

Frequently Asked Questions

Dr John Paul Lee and a dental assistant treating a patient at New’Gen Dental Surgery

In most cases yes, a small amount of enamel is removed. This is permanent, which is why we discuss the decision carefully before proceeding.

Lifespan varies with your bite, oral hygiene, grinding habits and the tooth being treated. Veneers can chip or come loose and will need replacing at some point.

Our aim is a result that suits your features. Shape, size and shade are discussed during planning, and checked at the fitting appointment before bonding.

Yes, though matching a single veneer to surrounding natural teeth requires care. We will discuss whether one veneer or several will give the better result.

Veneer materials resist staining differently to natural teeth, and they do not lighten with whitening. Any whitening you want is done before the veneers are made.

Grinding places veneers at higher risk of chipping. We usually recommend a protective splint, and in some cases we may suggest a different treatment.

Call 03 5792 2055 Send an enquiry