Can You Put Veneers Over Fillings?

Want to improve the look of your smile? If you have tooth discolouration or other imperfections, you may be interested in veneers. These slim layers of material are secured to the front of a tooth. They can improve the look of a person's smile and appear natural.

However, veneers are not suitable for everyone. Teeth that are in decay, close to gum disease, or are missing too much enamel are typically inappropriate for veneers. Whether a tooth with fillings can have a veneer depends on individual circumstances, so talk to your dentist if you have fillings and are interested in veneers. A dentist can assess your teeth and recommend cosmetic treatments suitable for your needs.

What Are Veneers?

Veneers are small, thin layers of material, usually porcelain or composite resin, that are affixed to the front of a tooth. They can be used to cover up stains, chips, and gaps. They can also improve the look of teeth of an undesirable shape or size. There are two main types of veneers: porcelain and composite resin.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers often require two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the dentist makes a mold of the tooth. To do this, enamel must be removed from the tooth (often with anesthesia). While patients wait for their custom veneer, they wear delicate temporary veneers. 

During the next visit, a chemical is added to the tooth's surface to make it easier to attach the veneer. The porcelain veneer is then attached and secured to the tooth using a glue made up of composite resin cement.

Composite Resin Veneers

To attach a composite resin veneer, your dentist will first coarsen the tooth’s surface. This allows the veneer to adhere better to the tooth. After choosing a suitable colour for your veneer, the dentist will paint on the composite resin in layers, using a type of light to harden the material. Composite resin veneers can be completed in one appointment.

About Fillings

Fillings are often used in the treatment of cavities. If you have a cavity that needs to be filled, the dentist will first apply some local anesthesia. Then, they will remove decaying material from your tooth. 

The hole can be filled with amalgam or plastic in the same appointment. Alternatively, and in some circumstances, a dentist may use crowns or inlays. These need to be customized and may require multiple appointments.

There are many types of fillings and veneers, and many materials to choose from. Ask your dentist which materials they recommend for your oral health needs, lifestyle, and budget. 

Who Can Get Veneers?

Veneers can be a good solution for a better-looking smile, but they're not for everyone. Veneers may not be suitable for:

• Significantly deteriorated teeth: Issues with decay need to be treated first. Teeth with little remaining enamel make it harder for the veneer to stick. 
• People with gum disease: If periodontal disease is present in the area, it must also be treated before a veneer can be considered.
• People who grind their teeth: Also called bruxism, people who grind their teeth—including those who do so in their sleep—may inadvertently damage their veneers.

Consider Crowns

Veneers are usually used for aesthetic purposes. They are typically unsuitable for teeth with large and significant fillings, root canals, or other significant damage. 

In some cases, a crown may be more suitable. Crowns are custom-made caps that cover damaged teeth. They can be made of metal, composite material, porcelain, or porcelain-fused-to-metal.

A dentist or a prosthodontist can perform crown procedures. If you're interested in cosmetic or restorative treatments, talk to your dentist. Many options are available, depending on each patient's needs.

More Veneer Tips

Veneers can significantly affect your appearance and confidence, but just like natural teeth, they need to be cared for. Remember: veneers are permanent. Enamel is removed when installing a veneer, and this cannot be reversed.

Remember to Brush & Floss

Brush and floss your veneers daily just as you would for natural teeth. The Canadian Dental Association recommends flossing at least once a day and, ideally, brushing after every meal or at least once before bed. 

While porcelain veneers are resistant to stains, it's still possible to stain them. Foods that can cause staining include wine, coffee, tea, and berries.

Watch for Damage

Pay attention to changes to your veneers. If your veneers get damaged, contact your dentist. Cavities can sometimes occur beneath veneers that weren't properly placed.

Avoid Teeth Grinding & Hard Foods

Certain behaviours can damage your veneers. If you have veneers, avoid eating very hard or chewy foods. Also, if you're prone to teeth grinding, let your dentist know. 

Veneers & Fillings at Embrace Dental in Southeast Calgary

At Embrace Dental, we understand how important it is to have a smile you feel good and confident about. We offer a range of cosmetic dental services, such as veneers and whitening, and we can also support you with a total smile makeover.

Because we want our patients to be as comfortable as possible, our dental clinic in Calgary is stocked with amenities like refreshments, ceiling-mounted TVs, and a kids' area with toys and games. Get in touch today to book an appointment.