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Veneers
A Customised Approach to Enhancing Tooth Appearance

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells bonded to the front surfaces of teeth. They are designed to improve the appearance of teeth that are chipped, discoloured, slightly misaligned, irregularly shaped, or spaced unevenly. Veneers are tailored to match the natural colour and contour of your smile and are commonly used on front teeth.

At Lithgow Dental, we offer two main types of veneers:

  • Porcelain veneers for their strength and aesthetic finish
  • Composite resin veneers for a more conservative and cost-effective option

Our dentists will help you choose the right type based on your needs, preferences, and clinical considerations.

Contact Us
(02) 6352 1017

Reasons Patients Consider Veneers

Veneers may be recommended if you would like to improve the appearance of:

  • Discoloured or permanently stained teeth
  • Worn, chipped, or fractured teeth
  • Mildly crooked teeth
  • Gaps between teeth
  • Irregularly shaped or uneven teeth
Veneers are a cosmetic treatment and are best suited for patients with good overall oral health and realistic expectations.

Types of Veneers Available at Lithgow Dental

  • Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are custom-fabricated in a dental laboratory and bonded to the teeth in a separate appointment. They are known for:

  • High durability and stain resistance
  • A natural, lifelike appearance due to their translucency
  • Long-term aesthetic performance
The process typically involves two appointments—one for preparation and impressions, and another for placement.
  • Composite Resin Veneers

These veneers are applied directly to the tooth surface in a single visit. They are sculpted, bonded, and polished by your dentist. Benefits include:

  • Minimally invasive preparation
  • More affordable than porcelain options
  • Easily repairable if damaged

Composite veneers may not last as long as porcelain, but they offer a quicker and more conservative solution in many cases.

The Procedure

  • Consultation and Planning
    We begin with a detailed examination to determine if veneers are right for you. Digital imaging or a mock-up may be used to visualise expected results. We also check for any underlying issues that may need to be addressed beforehand (e.g., gum disease or decay).
  • Tooth Preparation
    Depending on the type of veneer, a thin layer of enamel may be removed from the front of the teeth to allow the veneer to sit flush. Impressions are then taken to ensure a perfect fit.
  • Veneer Placement
    For porcelain veneers, the final veneers are bonded during a second visit. Composite veneers are applied and shaped in one appointment. We check your bite and polish the veneers for a natural finish.

Aftercare and Maintenance

With proper care, veneers can last many years. Porcelain veneers often last 10–15 years, while composite veneers may last 5–7 years on average.

Tips for maintaining your veneers include:

  • Brushing and flossing regularly
  • Wearing a night guard if you grind your teeth
  • Avoiding biting into very hard foods or objects
  • Attending regular dental check-ups for monitoring
Although veneers are strong, they are not indestructible and may require replacement over time.

Considerations Before Getting Veneers

Veneers are not suitable for everyone. We will ensure you understand the benefits and limitations of this cosmetic option.

Factors to consider include:

  • Veneers are not reversible once tooth enamel is removed
  • They are not suitable for patients with poor oral hygiene or active gum disease
  • Severe misalignment or bite issues may require orthodontic treatment instead
  • They do not whiten like natural teeth, so it’s best to undergo whitening before veneer placement if desired

We take a conservative and ethical approach to treatment planning and will only recommend veneers if they are appropriate for your needs.

Contact Us
(02) 6352 1017
Will veneers look like natural teeth?
Yes. Both porcelain and composite veneers are carefully matched to the shade and shape of your natural teeth for a natural-looking finish.
No special care is required beyond good oral hygiene habits, although it’s best to avoid biting into hard objects and wear a night guard if you grind.
Porcelain veneers typically last 10–15 years. Composite veneers generally last 5–7 years with good care.
Veneer procedures are generally comfortable. If tooth preparation is needed, local anaesthetic may be used.
No. Veneers do not respond to whitening agents. Whitening should be done before veneer placement if needed.
Porcelain veneers may need replacing if damaged. Composite veneers can often be repaired in-chair during a regular appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions