Veneers
Porcelain or Composite Veneers
Veneers can be likened to false fingernails, they cover the front surface of the tooth. Depending on your bite and preference you have two options for veneers, one being porcelain and the other composite resin material.
Both are durable strong materials however porcelain veneers being made from ceramic are a harder wearing material. In preparation, a consultation with a dentist is required to determine if veneers are suitable for you.
With composite veneers the tooth is very lightly roughened, and the resin is bonded directly in the chair. With porcelain veneers a very thin amount of tooth structure is removed and a scan is taken and sent to the lab.
A shade is taken to match the surrounding teeth or improve the overall colour of teeth.
Porcelain veneers not only improve the physical look of the teeth but can also improve the strength of the teeth if wear is a factor.
Veneers enable the dentist to reshape, rebuild, straighten, and modify teeth, without the need for orthodontics. If well maintained, they will last for many years.
Dental Crowns
Dental Crowns (sometimes referred to as Dental Caps) are single unit covers that are placed over heavily broken down, filled or root treated teeth. They look and feel just like real teeth. A crown literally wraps around the tooth just like a hat wraps around a head, thus strengthening the underlying tooth structure by holding it all together.
In certain situations, it is more preferable to crown front teeth rather than place porcelain veneers to achieve a desired cosmetic result.
For example, Dental Crowns can be used to cosmetically enhance the appearance of a tooth, as they are able to cover colour irregularities.
Crowns are made in house here at Cairns Precision Dental but are sometimes sent to an external lab if the shade match is difficult. Our same day crowns mean you have a new tooth within hours of having the preparation completed. Dental Crowns can be made from a variety of different materials, depending on the tooth involved, its position in the mouth, and sometimes on the preferences of the patient. These materials include zirconia and porcelain, porcelain bonded to metal (this combines the strength of metal with the natural appearance of tooth coloured porcelain), or even gold alloy.
Bridges
Bridges are used to fill gaps permanently where teeth have been lost. I explain dental bridges as being just like a bridge across a river.
There are two poles either side of a hanging structure. The poles are the teeth either side of the gap, which are crowned, and the hanging structure is the false tooth.
Depending on the size of the gap, Bridges are a very successful fixed (meaning not removable like dentures) restoration. The idea is that the gap is filled with a structure that is indiscernible form the other teeth surrounding the structure.
In certain circumstances, implants are a better alternative to Bridges. This may be because the gap is too wide. Or the teeth either side of the gap are considered to be virgin teeth, and to crown them would compromise the good condition of the natural tooth structure.
Dental Implants
Dental Implants are described as a titanium screw which is placed into the bone in the space of the missing tooth. The screw then bonds to the surrounding bone acting like a normal tooth root. After a healing period, a crown is then custom made and screwed onto the dental implant. This process takes between 3-6 months from start to finish.
Cosmetic Injectables Cairns
A smile is not just about beautiful teeth.
Dental surgeons have thorough knowledge about the relationship between your mouth, teeth, lips, skin, facial bones and muscles, which enables dentists to create an aesthetically pleasing smile and facial appearance. As we age, our skin tone, texture of the skin and pigmentation changes due to environmental and lifestyle factors that can contribute to flattened, dull attributes. Dentists are experts of your head and neck region, thus they would be the natural candidate to best rejuvenate and sculpt your features to create the smile you have always wanted.
Have you noticed prominent forehead lines, frown lines, crow’s feet, thinning lips, a ‘gummy smile’, flattened and dull skin and/or creases around the mouth, nose and chin?
Our genetic make-up plays a key role in determining our features. However, there are a few environmental factors that can be impacting our skin and accelerating the appearance of ageing. In Cairns, we are fortunate to have year-long sunshine, which is a blessing and a curse. Sun exposure not only is harmful to our skin, but also causes skin ageing. Please ensure that you are taking adequate preventive measures to block out the negative effects of the sun. Additionally, smoking also contributes to fine lines, wrinkles, stained teeth and affects overall health.
Australasian Academy of Dento-Facial Aesthetics (AADFA)
provides specialist training in the field of facial cosmetic injectables and dermal fillers. Cairns Precision Dental Group is approved for the use of cosmetic injectables and dermal fillers. Dr. Hasi Thambugala is a AADFA trained dental surgeon who can provide optimal facial and oral enhancements. Cosmetic injectables can help you achieve your goal towards wrinkle and line relaxation and putting your best face forward.
FAQs
How long do veneers last?
The durability of veneers depends on how they are maintained. Generally, veneers can last about 10 to 15 years, though their lifespan varies based on factors such as the material type, the quality of dental work and individual oral hygiene habits. Porcelain veneers often last longer due to their durability and resistance to stains. Maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental check-ups are advisable to help maintain their appearance. Are you looking to improve your smile with porcelain veneers in Cairns? Schedule your consultation today to discover your options.
Are veneers suitable for everyone?
Veneers may not be suitable for everyone. The condition of your teeth and gums can significantly influence whether veneers are a feasible option. Issues such as extensive tooth decay, gum disease or habits like clenching or grinding your teeth could potentially impact their appropriateness. It might be beneficial to consult a dental professional who can evaluate if veneers align with your dental health and aesthetic goals.
What is the process for getting veneers?
The process of getting veneers typically involves several steps. It might start with a consultation where you discuss your goals with a dentist and assess whether veneers could be a suitable option for you. If you choose to proceed, the next phase usually involves preparing your teeth, which often includes the removal of a small amount of enamel to accommodate the veneers. An impression of your teeth would then be taken and sent to a dental lab where your custom veneers are crafted. Once the veneers are prepared, they are fitted, adjusted and bonded to your teeth. This entire process might require a few dental visits spread over several weeks.
How long does it take to get veneers?
The time it takes to get veneers might vary, but it generally spans a few weeks across two to three visits. The first visit involves the initial consultation and the preparation of your teeth. The second visit may occur once the veneers have been crafted, which typically takes a few weeks. During the final visit, the veneers are fitted, adjusted and bonded to your teeth. Schedule your appointment today to discuss the possibilities of veneers in Cairns.
Can veneers fix gaps or crooked teeth?
Veneers might improve the appearance of your smile by addressing minor gaps and slightly crooked teeth. They provide a way to achieve a more uniform and aligned look without the need for more intensive orthodontic treatments. However, alternative treatments may be more appropriate for more significant alignment issues. Consulting with a dentist can help you understand the best options for your situation.
Are there any risks associated with getting veneers?
Getting veneers might carry some risks, although these are typically minimal. The process involves removing a small amount of tooth enamel, which is irreversible and may lead to increased tooth sensitivity. Additionally, there is a possibility of damage to the veneers, such as chipping or cracking, especially if they are subjected to excessive force or harsh biting. By discussing your lifestyle and dental habits with a dentist, you could gain a better understanding of these risks and discover ways to manage them. Consider booking a consultation to explore your options for dental veneers in Cairns.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Upon your arrival, our warm and attentive administration team will welcome you in our comfortable patient lounge. With ample free parking, you will have time to fill out a Patient Medical History Form if you have not done so already. Then Dr Hasi Thambugala will work with you to understand your goals and perform a thorough history of previous dental and cosmetic procedures. We also take digital photographs from various angles and will discuss the procedure with you. Using a specially designed pen similar to an eyebrow make-up pencil, your dentist will map out and mark the areas you wish to sculpt.
Dento-facial cosmetic treatments are safe and often take minutes to administer with minimal downtime and recovery time. Results are usually noticeable within just a few days for line and wrinkle relaxation treatments. The results may vary between individuals, but Dr Hasi Thambugala will determine if you are a candidate for facial cosmetic injectables.
Cairns Precision Dental Group offers cosmetic injectables at competitive fees. Cosmetic injectables can help enhance your look and boost your confidence in a minimally invasive way. We offer a safe clinical environment, and we know what works best with your smile.
Contact one of our lovely team members on 07 4054 2203 or contactus@cairnsprecisiondental.com today to make an appointment.
Please note these prices may vary.
Composite veneers: $550 per tooth
Porcelain veneer: $1500 per tooth
Crown: $1890 per tooth
Denture: $1200
Teeth whitening: $250
