Bone Grafting for Dental Implants — Discover What’s Involved

Bone Grafting for Dental Implants — Discover What’s Involved

Being told you need a bone graft to get a dental implant may sound scary, but it’s a relatively minor procedure commonly used with dental implants.

Bone grafting for dental implants is required when a patient’s jaw bone structure is insufficient to provide support for implants to be used to replace missing teeth. The aim is to reconstruct lost bone to enable the placement of dental implants.  

Dentists use various bone regeneration techniques. Generally, a bone graft involves using the patient’s bone (taken from the mouth or other parts of the body) or dental biomaterials surgically inserted  by a dentist experienced in oral surgery and implantology into the areas that need regeneration.

Why not get a consultation at your local dental clinic to assess your jaw bone’s health should you plan to replace a missing tooth with a dental implant? 

 

Common causes of bone density loss include the following:

  • Trauma or injury to the mouth or facial areas
  • After tooth extraction – in the empty space where the extracted tooth was
  • Periodontal disease – chronic inflammation and infection in the gums 
  • Developmental defects

 

 

Who requires bone grafting for dental implants?

A bone graft is usually needed for patients with bone loss in their jaw. A dentist may recommend the procedure if you

  • Hope to replace a missing tooth with a dental implant 
  • Are having a tooth extracted
  • Have areas of bone loss due to periodontal disease
  • Need to rebuild the jaw before receiving dentures

A visit to a dentist that offers consultation for dental implants will determine if implants are suitable for you and whether a bone graft is required. 

 

Bone grafting for dental implants – how it works

A bone graft is an effective method of reconstructing or repairing bone and involves transplanting bone tissue in the region of bone loss. Bone grafting for dental implants is usually carried out under local anaesthesia, except for complex cases where a patient may need to be sedated with general anaesthesia. 

During surgery, a small incision is made into the gums, and the tissue is moved back slightly to expose the jaw bone. The dentist then inserts the bone grafting material and closes the incision with sutures. In some cases, PRP (platelet-rich plasma) is combined with the bone graft to stimulate healing and tissue regeneration. The body utilises the tissue to grow new cells and recreate the bone in that area. 

 

Types of bone grafts

There are various types of bone grafts used in different situations. These include:

Socket graft – this is placed in the empty socket following a tooth extraction to prevent the sides from caving in. Sometimes a dental implant can be placed simultaneously, depending on the individual’s case. 

Ridge augmentation If a patient has been missing teeth for a while, the supporting jawbone may have less width and density than before. Ridge augmentation increases the volume and width of the jawbone to provide a stable foundation for dental implants or other restorations.

graft bone procedure implant teeth st marysSinus lift – When a person is missing their upper back teeth, the maxillary sinuses that sit just above can drop down and move into the space previously occupied by the teeth roots. A dentist would be unable to place dental implants for fear of penetrating the sinus membrane. A sinus lift aims to raise the sinus back to its original position. The dentist then places a dental bone graft beneath the sinus to create a solid foundation for implants later. 

Periodontal graft When gum disease is severe, the bacteria in the mouth and the diseased tissue can lead to bone reabsorption. In this situation, a dentist may recommend a bone graft to restore the lost bone enabling it to support a tooth or dental implant. 

In most cases, a patient must wait 2-9 months for a bone graft to heal fully before receiving a dental implant. 

 

Recovery and post-operation 

Their implant dentist monitors a patient’s recovery. They must follow the post-operation instructions provided by the dentist to guarantee a successful outcome. Painkillers and antibiotics will be prescribed to ease pain following surgery and prevent infection.  

More significant bone grafts may cause considerable inflammatory reactions in some cases. While not always painful, they may cause notable bruising and swelling, which should vanish within a week or two. 

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to prevent infection in the graft, which endangers the aim of the procedure. The chances of generating bone are minimal once a graft becomes infected. A patient should heal well by following instructions and attending the dental clinic regularly for the ensuing weeks and months. They should also adopt a soft diet in the early days and avoid spitting, brushing over the area, and using mouthwash vigorously. 

 

How long does it take to achieve bone regeneration?

It takes several months for the body to accept the bone graft and generate new, strong bone. Waiting time can be between two and nine months, depending on the regeneration technique used, the type of defect, and a person’s ability to heal. 

This biological process can’t be rushed, or there’s a risk of losing what has been achieved. Patients must exercise patience. If you’re waiting to undergo dental implant surgery, your implant dentist can tell you when your bone is sufficiently strong to support an implant. 

So, there you have it. All you need to know about bone grafting for dental implants. Need more information? Want to see if you’re a suitable candidate for a dental implant? Get a dental consultation near you at Pearl Dental Care in St Marys, 2760 or call us on (02) 9158 6312.

 

 

 

Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. 

 

 

 

References

Science Direct – Dental Biomaterials
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/dental-biomaterials

PubMed – Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in dental and oral surgery: from the wound healing to bone regeneration
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23763951/#:~:text=Platelet%2Drich%20plasma%20(PRP)%20is%20a%20new%20approach%20to,surgery%2C%20especially%20in%20aging%20patients.

 

 

 

How Long Does The Dental implant Procedure Take From Start To Finish?

How Long Does The Dental implant Procedure Take From Start To Finish?

Dental implants are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth. The procedure can take several months to complete, and the results are definitely worth the wait! But how long does a dental implant procedure take from start to finish? You’ll need to confirm with a dentist that offers consultation appointments, but here’s a look at each stage of the dental implant process—from the initial examination to the final placement of the implant.

The Dental Implant Process: From Start to Finish

 

Besides the healing time, most surgical procedures are deemed finished after the surgery. However, that isn’t the case with dental implants. In fact, one of the most crucial parts of the process is just beginning once the implants are placed—and it is vital to the success of the dental implant procedure.

Broadly, the dental implant process consists of three stages—the initial consultation, the implant surgery and the attachment of the artificial tooth. However, the exact nature of the process may not be the same for everyone, and additional steps may be required before or after the implant surgery. These will affect how long the procedure takes to complete.

For example, dental implant surgery must be performed on a healthy mouth. Thus, the dentist will treat these first if there are signs of active gum disease or tooth decay. Additionally, if the jawbone is not dense enough to hold an implant, bone graft surgery may need to be carried out—and it may take a year to complete the dental implant process.

Let’s take a closer look at each stage.

Initial Consultation and Examination

During an initial consultation, the dentist will take a thorough medical history and review your dental records.

how long does a tooth implant procedure take st marysThey will also assess your current oral health and thoroughly examine your teeth, gums, and oral tissues.

X-rays of the mouth or CT scans may be taken to evaluate the health of your jaw.

Suppose you are deemed a suitable candidate for dental implants, a personalised treatment plan is developed, and impressions of your mouth are taken so the laboratory can prepare your custom-made artificial tooth (or teeth).

Get a dental consultation near you to find out more. It should generally take 1-2 hours.

Dental Implant Surgery

The surgery to insert a dental implant is usually carried out under local anaesthetic, which numbs the area around the implant. However, conscious sedation can be given in addition to the local anaesthetic if you are of a nervous disposition.

The procedure is relatively straightforward and typically takes around an hour to complete. Recovery from the surgery is usually quick, and most people quickly return to their normal activities within days. How long does a dental implant (surgical) procedure take? Typically, it takes 1-2 hours to place one implant. 

Healing Time

After dental implant surgery, the area is left to heal. During this time, the implant fuses with the jawbone (osseointegration). Dental implants are typically made from titanium (a material compatible with the human body), so they won’t be rejected and provide a secure and robust base on which to mount an artificial tooth.

Attaching the Replacement Tooth

The attachment of the replacement tooth is the final part of the dental implant process. In patients with healthy jaw bones, this can often occur around 3-4 months after the dental implants are inserted into the jaw. However, if augmentation of the jawbone is necessary with a bone graft, it may be up to a year before the procedure is finalised.

Attaching the artificial tooth is straightforward and performed under a local anaesthetic—generally taking no longer than an hour.

Looking After Dental Implants

In truth, the dental implant procedure may well be finished, but dental implants require a lifetime of care if you want them to last. Just as natural teeth need cleaning to prevent bacterial plaque, dental implants require the same attention.

You must have a thorough twice-daily cleaning and flossing routine to keep the tissues surrounding any dental implants free from plaque and healthy to prevent peri-implantitis (a condition similar to gum disease that destroys gum and bone tissue). 

Besides your cleaning routine, you must visit a dentist regularly who can monitor the health of your mouth and dental implants. If problems are spotted, early treatment can often nip them in the bud. For example, if you have a build-up of tartar on your implants, the dentist can remove it before any harmful bacteria can run amok. Unfortunately, if you neglect your dental implants, there is a chance you may lose them.

How long does a dental implant procedure take: The bottom line

The dental implant process is not the quickest treatment you can get—unlike a crown or denture. But, the beauty of dental implants is that they mimic natural teeth so well that there is no other tooth restoration option that matches them for aesthetics, feel and function. Get a consultation at your local dental clinic today if you’d like to know more about dental implants and whether you are suitable for them.

References

Healthline: What you need to know about a dental bone graft

https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-bone-graft

Science Direct: Osseointegration

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/osseointegration

Am. Academy of Periodontology: Peri-implant diseases

https://www.perio.org/for-patients/periodontal-treatments-and-procedures/dental-implant-procedures/peri-implant-diseases/

The Pros And Cons Of Dental Implants – What You Need To Know

The Pros And Cons Of Dental Implants – What You Need To Know

If you have missing teeth and are considering implant-based restorations as an option, then it pays to understand the pros and cons of dental implants to know if they’re right for you. In this post, we’ll discuss the advantages and disadvantages of undergoing dental implant surgery so you can make an informed decision. Let’s get started.

Firstly, dental implants are expensive

Initially, anyway, a dental implant procedure does not come cheap. In fact, when compared to conventional restorations like bridges and dentures, dental implants can come in at two or three times the cost. 

However, if you look beyond the short term, dental implants can last for many years, so it’s likely, that you will only pay once during your lifetime. On the contrary, because conventional restorations will need replacing frequently, you may end up spending more than you think over the course of a lifetime.

The good news is that many dentists now provide flexible payment options for procedures like dental implant surgery, so you’ll probably be able to spread the cost of treatment rather than having to stump it all up in one go.

An implant restoration involves undergoing dental implant surgery

The surgical aspect of a dental implant procedure is something that cannot be avoided. So it’s understandable that people who can’t undergo surgery or are worried or concerned about it may want to choose a different option.  

That said, in most cases, undergoing dental implant surgery is a quick and straightforward process taking less than an hour. Our experienced team at Pearl Dental Care, for example, ensure that patients feel minimal to zero discomfort during the implant placement process. Moreover, many patients are surprised by how easy it is and tell us that ‘it was over before they knew it.’ 

Getting a dental implant is not a quick fix solution

You may already know that the process of getting a dental implant cannot be done in one sitting. Typically, a dental implant procedure, from start to finish, takes anywhere between 4-9 months to complete. Primarily, this is because time is needed for the implant to stabilise in the jaw. So why is this important?

Dental implants are a standalone treatment. In other words, they don’t rely on the support of other structures in the mouth. They instead form a stable foundation by fusing with the existing bone tissue in a process known as osseointegration.

pros & cons of dental implants st marys Once the implant and jawbone become one, it’s sufficient to support a single dental crown, a bridge, or as a series of dental implants supporting a complete arch of replacement teeth.

Unfortunately, osseointegration is a natural process that cannot be rushed, taking 2-5 months on average. Once fully stabilised, the implant and its restoration become an integral part of the mouth.

So, while this aspect may be a disadvantage to some people, others realise that what they eventually have is a natural-looking and long-lasting fixed restoration that is easy to care for.

Of course, this post is all about the pros and cons of dental implants. So, as we’ve talked about some of the initial disadvantages, it’s only fair to balance it and discuss the advantages.

Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth

Elaborating more on the above section, once a dental implant is fully stabilised and the permanent restoration attached, a dental implant is arguably the closest thing to natural teeth that modern dentistry allows. Dental implants enable you to bite and chew normally, while caring for them is as easy as brushing and flossing regularly. 

Let’s touch on the chewing and biting aspect for a moment because it’s an important one. If you opt for a conventional restoration like a dental bridge or denture, chewing and biting capability is often limited. With some studies quoting a significant reduction in bite force, it’s understandable why long-term denture wearers may need to adapt their diet. 

On the contrary, research suggests that within 2-3 months of getting a dental implant, your chewing capability may be 80% – 85% of your normal bite. This means that as soon as your dental implants have stabilised in the jaw, you should be able to eat whatever you like. 

A dental implant prevents bone loss

As far as the pros and cons of dental implants go, this is perhaps one of the most significant advantages. 

When teeth are missing, the bone tissue that once supported the natural tooth root gets reabsorbed back into the body because it is no longer required. This, in turn, causes the jawbone to shrink. In fact, in the space of one year, the jawbone diminishes by around 30%

Unfortunately, conventional restorations cannot halt the bone loss process, which is why the jaw’s ever-changing shape requires dentures or dental bridges to be changed often. 

Conversely, because dental implants are anchored directly into the jaw, they re-stimulate the remaining bone tissue. The result is no further bone loss and, by default, no more premature ageing. 

So there you have it, the pros and cons of dental implants explained. If you want to know more about dental implants and how they work, get a consultation at your local dental clinic. A dentist that offers a consultation should take the time to answer any questions or queries you have about the dental implant process while checking to see if you’re a good candidate. 

Here at Pearl Dental Care, we ensure you understand every aspect of the dental implant process before committing. So, if you are considering getting implants but are still unsure, call us and book a dental consultation near you. We can help you to create a fully functioning and aesthetically pleasing smile that you can be proud of. 

Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

     

References:

NCBI – Evaluation of Maximum Bite Force In Patients With Complete Dentures

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5874385   

ResearchGate – Maximum Bite Force Following Unilateral Implant-Supported Prosthetic Treatment

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/261568760_Maximum_bite_force_following_unilateral_implant-supported_prosthetic_treatment_Within-subject_comparison_to_opposite_dentate_side 

NCBI – Prevention Of Bone Resorption by HA And Collagen Composite After Tooth Extraction: A Case Series

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6926561  

How Long Does The Dental Implant Procedure Take?

How Long Does The Dental Implant Procedure Take?

If you’re thinking about having dental implants, you probably already know dental implants are a great choice of tooth replacement. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots placed below the gums’ surface and secured to the jawbone. This means they look and feel just like natural teeth, but it is a multi-stage process and takes a while to complete. So, just how long does the dental implant procedure take? It’s best to get an opinion from a dentist that offers consultation appointments, but we outline how each stage takes below.

The Dental Implant Procedure Stages

The dental implant procedure involves several vital stages that typically take several months to complete from start to finish. This involves the initial consultation and suitability assessment, the dental implant surgery and the completion of the implant procedure with the attachment of your new artificial tooth.

Initial Consultation and Suitability Assessment

Dental implants are one of the most sought-after treatments for replacing missing teeth. It’s easy to see why. They are robust, stable, and look and act like natural teeth. Furthermore, with reasonable care, they can last a lifetime. However, although popular, they are not suitable for everyone. There is meticulous planning involved in the process to determine whether you are ideal for the procedure, which will help ensure your implant’s longevity.

During the initial consultation, an examination of your mouth and jawbone will be conducted, and tests, such as x-rays and CT scans taken of your mouth. The dentist will ask about your goals from the treatment and your health history, as these can affect the suitability for dental implants. This part of the process typically takes between 1 and 2 hours.

Dental Health

It’s necessary to have a clean bill of oral health before you are considered for a dental implant procedureIf you have tooth decay or evidence of gum disease, these will both need to be treated before the implant treatment begins. The treatment also requires a viable, healthy jawbone to hold the implant. If you have bone loss in the jawbone, it may be challenging to place the implant. However, it is possible to have a bone graft to increase bone availability, a standard dental procedure for patients with dental implants.

General Health

Some medical conditions may make it more difficult for dental implants. Still, as each case is taken on its own merits, if you have diabetes, auto-immune disease, blood clotting disorder or other long-term health issues, you may be suitable for implants, depending on how well managed your condition is. However, your answer to ‘how long does the dental implant procedure take’ may be several months longer than someone without any health issues. Get a consultation at your local dental clinic to discuss whether your health problems may be a complication.

Smoking

The risk of implant failure in people who smoke is significantly greater than in non-smokers. We’re all aware of the damage smoking does to the body, but as the mouth is the first recipient of cigarette toxins, it can have far-reaching consequences for dental implants.

how long does dental implant process take st marysThe implants are placed into the jawbone in a surgical procedure.

After surgery, the body requires good blood flow to transport nutrients to the wound site to help tissue repair and fight infection.

Smoking diminishes blood flow, putting this process at risk and increasing the risk of disease that may result in implant failure.

Furthermore, long-term smokers are more susceptible to gum disease that destroys the gum, bone and other tissues that support teeth. It can also lead to peri-implantitis—a similar condition that affects the tissue surrounding dental implants—eventually leading to implant failure.

Dental Implant Procedure Surgery

The dental implant procedure is performed in the dentist’s office—typically under a local anaesthetic. But, if you are anxious about the surgery, conscious sedation may be offered. This relaxes patients, so they are still aware of requests from the dentist to perform simple tasks, such as opening their mouths but are unlikely to remember anything. Many people feel as though they have been asleep when they have been awake through the whole procedure.

The procedure involves making a flap incision on the gum. This is so the dentist can access the jawbone. A hole is drilled in the bone, and the implant is placed. The implant is covered when the gum is stitched back into position and left to heal. During the healing process, osseointegration occurs— when the dental implants and jawbone fuse together, after which the artificial tooth can be attached.

How long does the dental implant procedure take to complete after surgery? Typically, osseointegration takes four to six months, but if you have had a bone graft, it could be as long as a year.

Attachment of Artificial Tooth

The final part of the dental implant procedure is completed once the artificial tooth is attached. This is a straightforward procedure performed in the dentist’s office under a local anaesthetic to numb the gum. A small cut is made to expose the implant, and the artificial tooth is attached using a connector (abutment) that joins them together. This part of the process takes less than an hour.

How Long Does The Dental Implant Procedure Take from Start to Finish?

To recap, the dental implant procedure generally takes four to six months from initial consultation to attachment of an artificial tooth. However, if you have health issues, it can take up to a year. Book a consultation near you to find out more about dental implants. Contact Pearl Dental Care in St Marys today. 

References:

Mayo Clinic: Cavities/tooth decay

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavities/symptoms-causes/syc-20352892

Web MD: Gingivitis and periodontal disease (gum disease)

https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/gingivitis-periodontal-disease

Healthline: What you need to know about a dental bone graft

https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-bone-graft

What Are Dental Implants? Find Out If Can Anyone Get Them

What Are Dental Implants? Find Out If Can Anyone Get Them

Dental implants are replacements for missing teeth. When a tooth is lost, the teeth around it move to fill the gap, leading to various dental problems such as issues with one’s bite, unusual speech patterns, and misalignment. A dental implant not only restores function and appearance but can also enhance oral health by boosting jawbone health. But what are dental implants, and how do they work? Take a look at our summary, and then get a consultation at your local dental clinic to find out more. 

 

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that replace lost teeth. They are made from titanium— a metal that is biocompatible with the human body—and are surgically placed in the jaw to act as an anchor for a crown, bridge or denture. 

With a success rate of over 95 per cent, dental implants are the next best thing to natural teeth, as they look, feel and function the same way. They provide better chewing power than conventional dentures and restore the wearer’s smile and self-confidence. 

 

What is the Procedure for Dental Implants?

The process of receiving a dental implant is lengthy and meticulous, which is why it has such a high success rate. A recent study showed survival rates of implants after 3 and 5 years to be 99% and 97%, respectively. 

 

 

The entire procedure for dental implants is not a quick process and takes part over several months. The key milestones during the treatment include: 

 

1. Initial Consultation and Assessment

The initial consultation and assessment involve discussing your goals and past medical history. The dentist thoroughly examines your mouth to check the health of the teeth and gums. Tests and scans to assess the health of your jawbone may also be undertaken at this time.

If you are a suitable candidate, a customised treatment plan is created. The next steps involve having mouth impressions taken which are sent to a laboratory for your dental implant to be made and receiving a date for dental implant surgery. 

 

2. Dental Implant Surgery

Dental implant surgery is a standard procedure carried out under a local anaesthetic in the dentist’s chair.

Dental implant surgery is relatively straightforward, and the implant generally takes a few months—if not up to a year—to completely integrate with the jawbone (osseointegration). Once it has, this artificial root becomes permanent and can last decades or even a lifetime.

The surgery generally takes between 1-2 hours per implant. It involves making an incision in the top of the gum to expose the jawbone. The dentist drills a hole in the bone and inserts the implant. The gum is then stitched back to cover the implant, allowing the area to heal for the required time. 

 

3. Completion with Attachment of Artificial Tooth

The procedure is completed with the attachment of an artificial tooth in a minor procedure at the dental clinic.

Why not find a dentist that offers consultation appointments to determine whether a dental implant is a suitable treatment for you. 

 

What are Dental Implants‘ Advantages and Disadvantages?

It’s hardly surprising that implants are one of the most preferred tooth replacement options:

  • Feel, look and act like natural teeth
  • Permanently secured—no worry about them falling out or slipping
  • No restriction on what foods you eat
  • Improve your appearance
  • Help to maintain jaw health by encouraging new cells to grow in the jawbone
  • Long-lasting with good oral health
  • Do not require any special care—just regular brushing, flossing and check-ups

 

Dental implants have few disadvantages, but there are a few:

  • The procedure takes time to complete
  • It’s expensive compared to other tooth replacement options
  • Not everyone is suitable for implants

 

Who is Not Suitable for Dental Implants?

It’s worth bearing in mind that some chronic health conditions or lifestyle habits may make you unsuitable for dental implants. But, this doesn’t mean you are excluded from having them, as every case is considered individually. 

 

candidates tooth implant st marysChronic Illness

A long-term medical condition, such as diabetes, heart disease or osteoporosis, may make it more difficult to have a dental implant placed, although not impossible.

These conditions can affect the mouth in various ways, e.g. reducing saliva production, which makes gum disease more prevalent, impinging blood flow so that essential nutrients do not get around the body or weakening the bone so that a dental implant cannot be installed securely. 

 

Smokers

The body requires nutrients to heal and fight infection. Smoking inhibits blood flow which transports nutrients around the body. Thus, after implant surgery, there is a risk that dental implants can become infected, leading to their failure and necessitating removal. Furthermore, the long-term health of implants can be affected by smoking which can lead to peri-implantitis — a disease similar to gum disease that affects the tissue surrounding implants. 

 

What are Dental Implants? The Final Word

Dental implants are an excellent innovation for restoring missing teeth with a solution that looks, functions, and acts like natural teeth. Find out more about them with a dental consultation near you in St Marys and schedule an appointment with Pearl Dental Care or call us on (02) 9158 6312

 

 

Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. 

 

 

 

References

International Journal of Implant Dentistry: Implant success and survival rates in daily dental practice: 5-year results of a noninterventional study using CAMLOG SCREW-LINE implants with or without platform-switching abutments
https://d-nb.info/1171119240/34

Medical News Today: What problems can occur after dental implant surgery 
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dental-implants-problems

Evidence-Based Dentistry: How do different levels of smoking affect dental implants? 
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41432-021-0155-5

Br. Dental J: Peri-implantitis. Part 1: Scope of the problem 
https://www.nature.com/articles/sj.bdj.2014.808

 

 

How Veneers Work And What You Can and Should Expect

How Veneers Work And What You Can and Should Expect

If you are considering a smile makeover with dental veneers, then you’re not alone. Dental prosthetics like veneers are among the most common and fastest-growing segments within cosmetic dentistry. This is driven in part by the ‘selfie’ generation but also by social media celebs who need to look good for their target audience. In fact, it’s become so popular that you probably know someone, or know of someone, who has undergone porcelain veneers or composite veneers, and it has spurred you on to undergo treatment. Nevertheless, one thing’s for certain, modern dental veneers do a great job of transforming a jaded smile. But how do veneers work? Let’s take a closer look.

How veneers work and what to expect

For those of you who don’t know, dental veneers are lifelike, tooth-coloured coverings that sit over the front surface of your natural teeth. Patients can opt for two different types – composite veneers and porcelain veneers. Once applied both work by hiding many sins, including intrinsic tooth discolouration or staining, small chips, cracks, and even unevenly shaped or spaced teeth. But while they have the same common goal of providing a dramatically changed smile, they are two different entities.

Composites, for example, are made from a tooth-coloured composite paste, the same material used in white fillings. The paste-like material is applied directly to the front surface of the teeth by your dentist and is hardened and polished off to create a new artificial tooth surface. 

On the other hand, porcelain veneers are custom-designed porcelain shells bonded to the front surface of the teeth to create a robust, durable, and lifelike finish. 

how dental veneers work st marysBoth work in the same way in that they allow you to cosmetically change your smile. However, composite veneers are less invasive, cheaper, and quicker to fit (typically in just one sitting). On the contrary, because porcelain dental veneers are fabricated to fit your individual teeth, they are more expensive and are completed over two dental visits.

But while that sounds like composites have the advantage over their more expensive counterparts, they are also far less durable and can be prone to staining, so they will need replacing more frequently. So when considering how veneers work, you really need to juggle cost vs durability.

How strong are dental veneers really?

Cosmetic veneers work by being super strong. By this, we mean that they can handle pretty much any foods that you would normally put in your mouth. So you should be able to happily crunch down on a juicy apple or chew a succulent piece of steak without issue. However, just like your natural teeth, dental veneers are not built to be ice crushers, pen top chewers, or fingernail biters, nor should they be used as bottle opening implements. Doing so may cause them to chip or crack – again – just like natural teeth. You could say that dental veneers work as well as natural teeth, so long as you play by the rules.

How veneers work – Things you should know

Perhaps the most important thing to remember when it comes to composite and porcelain veneers is that while getting composite veneers is a reversible process, undergoing porcelain veneers isn’t.  

So why is that?

In order for porcelain veneers to sit flush in the mouth, a small amount of tooth enamel needs to be removed. Typically this is only around half a millimetre. However, once the enamel is removed, it doesn’t grow back. Therefore, you will always need veneers in order to protect your teeth in the long term. There are some types of veneer that don’t require the removal of enamel but typically, that’s how it works. So if you are thinking of getting porcelain veneers, this is something you need to bear in mind.  

Dental veneers – The key takeaway

When considering cosmetic dental veneers, there are many things to consider, and an understanding of how composite and porcelain veneers work will help you make the right choice.

While composites are less invasive and considerably cheaper, they are also more susceptible to staining and less durable. 

On the other hand, porcelain varieties are an irreversible process involving several dental visits. However, the end results are typically more lifelike and should last for many years – around 15-20 years instead of 5-7 years for composites.   

If you would like to find out more information about how veneers work or you are ready to take the plunge, book a consultation with the team at Pearl Dental Care to discuss your options. We’re a St Mary’s family dentist who excels in cosmetic dentistry, including the latest teeth veneers to improve your smile. We use only the very latest, ultra-thin veneers that are guaranteed to make a dramatic difference to your smile. We’re also adept at colour-matching your veneers to your smile to create a truly natural look. 

If you aren’t happy with your current smile because of staining, cracking, chipping, or other blemishes, get in touch today and see exactly what our team can do for you.  

References: 

Fortune Business Insights – Cosmetic Dentistry Market Size and forecast – 2019-2026

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/industry-reports/cosmetic-dentistry-market-100223 

Finder.com – How Much Do Veneers Cost in Australia

https://www.finder.com.au/cost-of-veneers