What is a composite veneer?

Composite resin veneers and composite resin bonding is a conservative alternative to porcelain veneers and can be used in a variety of cases – from correcting minor imperfections like chips, permanent stains, or to close gaps between teeth and even give the appearance of straight Teeth.

We refer to the treatment as composite bonding when the composite is only applied to part of the surface of the tooth for example, in the case of a chipped front tooth. Composite veneers on the other hand involve applying the composite to the entire front surface of the tooth. Composite veneers can be utilized to treat a single tooth, or alternatively can be used on several teeth to transform the entire smile.

How many appointments are required?

Composite resin bonding and veneers are often completed in a single appointment and rarely require removal of any tooth structure. It is therefore a more conservative approach to enhancing the aesthetics of your smile when compared with traditional porcelain veneers. Composite is a tooth coloured material that comes in different shades. It is very durable and can be easily repaired if chipped – unlike porcelain veneers which require replacement when damaged.

Our dentists will select a shade of composite to match the shade of your teeth. Composite bonding and veneers when applied correctly can mimic or enhance the natural contour, texture and translucency of your teeth.

What do composite veneers mean for my teeth in the future?

It is important to recognise that composite resin will not respond to tooth whitening gel and therefore it is sometimes suitable to carry out tooth whitening to lift the colour of all the teeth to match your desired shade of composite veneer – as this may be whiter than your natural tooth. If you have any questions, please discuss this with our dentists.

When appropriate, composite veneers can be removed or replaced in years to come with no or minimal damage to the underlying tooth. This makes composite veneers a great option for young patients, or adults whose teeth are largely untouched but wish to improve aesthetics.

It is important to care for your composite bonding and veneers. Our dentists and hygienists will advise you on how best to look after your new smile. Regular professional hygiene appointments, excellent brushing and flossing, and avoiding stresses on bonded teeth such as biting into hard foods, clenching or grinding will all prolong the life of your composite.

For more information or to book an appointment with one of our dentists, please call our team on (03) 9826 1725.