The promise of an instant, dazzling white smile is attracting many Australians to get dental veneers. ABC News reported a recent noticeable rise in cosmetic procedures, including dental veneers, botox, and fillers. These procedures help enhance appearance and boost self-confidence; however, people must understand their options beforehand.
We explore the statistics, trends, demands, and outlook for dental veneers in Australia, helping you understand why they’re becoming very popular in the country.
If you’re considering dental veneers, trust only the experts. Aesthetic Dental Clinic offers the latest, patient-focused veneer treatments aligned with growing trends in cosmetic dentistry.
Dental Veneers in Australia: An Overview
Dental veneers are thin shells that look like real teeth. These are attached to the front surface of teeth to improve appearance. People use veneers to cover discoloured, broken, or chipped teeth.
Most dental veneers are made from porcelain or resin-composite materials and are permanently bonded to teeth using resin-based dental cement. Some people may need only one veneer to cover a chipped or broken tooth, but many install six to eight veneers for an even or symmetrical appearance.
Porcelain vs Composite Dental Veneers
Dental veneers can be made of porcelain or composite material.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are known for their strength and last up to 20 years with proper maintenance. This translucent material closely matches the appearance of natural teeth. It is also versatile and great for covering up severely discoloured teeth and spaces.
Remember that a dentist may need to remove some of your teeth’s enamel before applying porcelain veneers. You must also make multiple consultations to ensure your porcelain veneers are installed perfectly.
Composite Dental Veneers
Composite veneers are made from tooth-coloured resin. The dentist applies this resin directly to teeth, sculpting the material to achieve the desired appearance. Most composite veneers are installed in just one appointment and require minimal prep work.
Compared to porcelain, composite veneers may wear down quicker and last only five to seven years. The composite material is porous and thus may need polishing to look like natural teeth.
Market Size of Veneers in Australia
Source: Horizon Grand View Research
There is a growing trend in Australia to use dental veneers. Grand View Research revealed that the dental veneers market in the country is expected to reach a revenue of US$112.1 million by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.4% from 2024 to 2030.
Dr Gavin Quek, vice-chairman of the Australian Dental Association’s oral health committee, also confirmed the rising demand for cosmetic dentistry procedures, specifically porcelain veneers. He attributed this to the latest advancements in technology and materials used to produce dental veneers, saying these made veneers more accessible. Quek also mentioned Australians’ cultural shift to valuing a healthy and attractive smile.
Aside from dental veneers, teeth whitening products and clear aligner markets are also experiencing noticeable growth:
- The teeth whitening market in Australia is expected to generate a revenue of USD 104.5 million by 2030, a huge increase from just USD 70 million in 2023. This market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.6% from 2024 to 2030.
- Teeth-whitening toothpaste was the largest revenue-generating whitening product in 2023 and experienced the fastest growth during the period.
Source: Grand View Research
- Australia’s clear aligner market will be valued at USD 534.3 million by 2028. It is expected to grow at a CAGR of 28.7% during this period.
How Many Australians Get Veneers Each Year?
Although the number of Australians getting dental veneers may not be available, the market growth for veneers is enough to show that this procedure is in demand in the country.
Meanwhile, a prospective study about the lifespan of porcelain veneers revealed that a specialist prosthodontic referral clinic in Australia had 304 veneer treatments in 16 years. This data suggests that although dental veneers are common, they are not Australia’s most frequently consulted dental procedure.
Furthermore, the study revealed that 62% of the patients who came in to get dental veneers were males, while only 37.8% were females.
Demographics of Veneer Patients in Australia
Age Range
The most common age range for dental veneers is 25 to 44. Aesthetics and social media often influence those in their early 20s. Most may also want to improve their appearance to promote their careers and see dental veneers as a viable option.
Conversely, those in their early 30s to 40s are usually more focused on restoring worn teeth or rejuvenating their appearance.
Gender Breakdown
Overall, around 60 to 70% of women use dental veneers, while men use only 30 to 40%. Women tend to prioritise aesthetics and smile enhancements more than men.
Occupation / Lifestyle Segments
Some people are more likely to get dental veneers than others. Influencers or content creators have highly visual careers, and a dazzling smile is part of their brand. They also frequently partner with cosmetic dental clinics to promote their services.
Professionals such as lawyers, real estate agents, business executives, performers, and public figures may also choose dental veneers to create a polished and confident appearance.
Dental veneers are also becoming very popular among brides or grooms-to-be as part of wedding preparations. Veneers provide instant smile makeovers, an easy fix to discoloured or broken teeth.
Young urban adults such as Millennials and Gen Zs may use dental veneers to enhance their appearance and follow celebrity culture and social media trends.
Cost Trends and Pricing Statistics
Dental Veneer Costs in Major Australian Cities
Various factors affect the cost of dental veneers, including the veneer material type (porcelain or composite material), the number of visits, and the clinic location.
Here is a summary of the average veneer costs in major Australian cities.
- Sydney: Direct adhesive veneer restoration costs between $375 and $400 per tooth. The price of a single tooth-coloured veneer starts at $1,200.
- Melbourne: Adhesive veneer restoration costs around $400 per tooth. Indirect tooth-coloured veneers cost $1,200+.
- Brisbane: Direct single veneer costs $360+, while a single tooth-coloured veneer costs $1,200+ per tooth.
- Perth: Direct adhesive restoration veneers cost $320 per tooth, while indirect tooth-coloured veneer costs $1,200+.
- Adelaide: Direct adhesive restoration with veneers costs $380 per tooth, while indirect tooth-coloured veneers range from $1,100 to $1,200 per tooth.
Cost of Dental Veneers According to Materials
According to the Australian Dental Association, porcelain veneers cost $1,800 per tooth. Porcelain veneers are generally more costly because of their durability, resistance to staining, and natural appearance.
Meanwhile, composite veneers are more affordable, from $400 to $800 per tooth. This option is cheaper because the materials are more affordable and require less complex applications.
The price of dental veneers has likely increased over time in Australia, as factors such as the type of material, clinic location, and complexity of the case affect the overall cost.
Comparing the Cost of Veneers in Australia, the US, and Thailand
Source: Bookimed
The US has the most expensive veneer treatments, ranging from $900 to $2,500 per tooth. In Australia, the cost is $1,300 per tooth, while in Thailand, where people go for affordable dental tourism, the cost is cheaper at $135 to $500 per tooth.
The Growing Demand for Cosmetic Dentistry
There is an increasing demand for cosmetic dentistry procedures in Australia. According to a Grand View Research survey, this market is expected to reach a revenue of US$1,119.4 million by 2030, with a CAGR of 14.9% from 2023 to 2030.
The most common reason for using dental veneers among older demographics is to fix dental issues such as discolouration, cracks, and gaps. Most of these issues are likely the result of poor dental habits. In fact:
- According to the 2020 to 2021 National Health Survey, more than half of females in Australia (52%) visited the dentist.
- According to the same survey, less than half of Australian males (45%) consulted a dental professional from 2020 to 2021.
- The cost of dental services (including cosmetic dental treatments) has increased by 30% since the early 2000s.
- The Australian Bureau of Statistics Household Expenditure Survey reported that Australians spend an average of $7.62 weekly on dental services. That’s not enough to book a consultation, let alone pay for dental veneers.
What’s Driving the Rise of Veneers?
The increase in the demand for dental veneers can be attributed to many factors:
Social Media
Around 77.9% of Australia’s population uses social media regularly. This increasing usage exposes people to various trends and visual content, such as “smile makeovers,” influencers, and celebrity endorsements, which can influence them to improve their appearance, particularly their teeth.
Digital Smile Design (DSD)
DSD offers a realistic digital preview of a person’s outcome after cosmetic dental surgery. This influences them to correct their teeth using cosmetic treatments, such as dental veneers and teeth whitening products.
Increasing Awareness
Australians are now more aware of accessible ways to enhance their smiles, especially when dealing with chipped, broken, or severely discoloured teeth. This awareness has led to the rise in the use of dental veneers.
Veneers Outlook: Future Trends and Predictions
The use of dental veneers as a cosmetic treatment is expected to grow in the next five years. People will continue to choose veneers over other treatments because of their viability and effectiveness. The following will also contribute to dental veneer growth in Australia:
- Same-day veneers using more durable composite materials will make it easier and quicker to get dental veneers. People won’t need to wait too long to restore their smiles.
- Digital smile design (DSD) will become critical to every patient’s dental consultation. DSD will help them visualise their appearance, how their new smile will look, and what to expect after dental veneer installation.
- Biocompatible materials will be integrated into dental veneer construction. An example would be zirconia veneers, which are biocompatible and wear-resistant. These materials can interact with the body without causing a negative or allergic reaction.
Aesthetic Dental Clinic stays ahead of dental cosmetic trends through the latest technology and amazing personalised service.
Why Choose Aesthetic Dental Clinic for Your Veneers?
Your smile should be as unique as you are. Start your dental veneer journey with a personalised consultation at Aesthetic Dental Clinic. We will begin with a thorough check-up to understand your condition and create a treatment plan for your facial features, lifestyle, and smile aspirations.
We specialise in porcelain and composite veneers, combining advanced techniques with delicate artistry to create flawless, natural-looking results. Whether you need a full smile restoration or a subtle enhancement, expect only the best; our attention to detail will ensure your smile looks and feels natural.
We can help you restore your smile with the best dental veneer treatments. Call Aesthetic Dental Clinic at (02) 4566 4438 to book your smile consultation today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are more men getting veneers now?
There has been a surprising increase in males opting for veneers. This trend could be due to the influence of social media and the increasing number of cosmetic dental options.
2. What’s the difference between porcelain and composite veneers?
Porcelain veneers are made from small chips of porcelain that look like real teeth. They are durable and longer-lasting, but installation may take several sessions. Teeth must be prepared before installation, and porcelain veneers are mostly outsourced to a technician, which takes time.
Meanwhile, composite veneers are made from a composite material placed over teeth and then shaped and sculpted to look like real teeth. This material is porous and won’t last as long as porcelain veneers. Installation is easier as there’s no need to prepare the affected teeth. Pricewise, composite veneers are less expensive than porcelain ones.
3. Is the demand for veneers expected to grow?
According to a Grand View Research study, the demand for dental veneers is expected to reach a revenue of US$112.1 million by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.4% from 2024 to 2030.
