Veneers are thin porcelain shells that are used to cover chipped, stained or misaligned teeth. The thin layers of the veneer material adhere to natural tooth enamel to create a strong, long-lasting bond. Veneers work best for people who wish to correct minor imperfections in their smile.
The procedure for attaching veneers to the exterior of the teeth is non-invasive. The results are immediately visible. Once the veneers are adhered to your teeth, they will be able to perform all the teeth’s natural functions without any dietary restrictions or long recovery periods. Since veneers can last for many years, there is no need for constant replacement and maintenance, other than normal oral hygiene and dental care. Veneers can help you achieve the bright, healthy smile that you’ve always wanted!
Benefit of Veneers
- Veneers are beneficial when the original teeth are heavily stained, or the shape of the tooth is undesirable. Veneers can also correct a chipped or fractured tooth, fill gaps between teeth and/or fix minor bite-related issues.
- Veneers are a custom option to enhance your smile. They are individually sculpted for each patient. This makes it virtually impossible to tell the difference between a veneer and your natural tooth.
- Unlike your natural teeth, veneers are able to resist coffee, tea and cigarette stains because they are not porous like our enamel. For teeth that have imperfections or resist whitening, veneers can provide the whitest and brightest smile.
- Veneers can quickly fix minor twisting, overlaps or small gaps. Instead of bulky dental crowns, veneers can provide optimal esthetic results, without removing large amounts of your natural tooth structure.
About the Procedure
Porcelain laminate veneers consist of several thin ceramic layers, which replace original tooth enamel. To apply a veneer, a very thin layer of the natural tooth enamel has to be removed. This space creates room for the veneer, so it will not appear bulky. It will also restore the function to the tooth. A light-sensitive resin is applied between the layers and then hardened, using a special curing light. This creates a strong bond between the natural tooth and the veneer.
Minimal or “No-Prep” Veneers
Some patients are looking for an alternative to traditional dental veneers or bonding. “No-prep” veneers are not an option for every patient. Similar to traditional veneers, “no-prep” or minimal preparation veneers typically don’t require your dentist to remove as much tooth material and are bonded to the front surface of your teeth. The placement is often a faster procedure and patients report less discomfort than with traditional veneers. Ask your dentist if “no-prep” or minimal prep veneers are an option for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are veneers?
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells placed over the front of teeth to improve their appearance by correcting color, shape, size, or minor misalignments.
How much does a full set of veneers cost?
It depends on the number of veneers that will be recommend to each patient.
How do veneers work?
Veneers cover the visible surface of teeth with durable, tooth-colored material, masking imperfections and enhancing aesthetics without major structural changes.
Who needs dental veneers?
People with chipped, stained, uneven, or slightly crooked teeth, or those looking for a long-lasting cosmetic improvement may benefit from veneers.
Veneers vs crowns: What’s the difference?
Veneers cover only the front surface of teeth and are cosmetic, while crowns encase the whole tooth and restore both function and structure.
Are there different types of veneers?
Yes, porcelain veneers are strong and stain-resistant, while composite veneers are more affordable and require less enamel removal but may not last as long. Depending on the patient's needs and specifications, a certain type of veneers will be prescribed.
What happens before dental veneer placement?
Your dentist evaluates your teeth, takes impressions, discusses goals, and may remove a small amount of enamel to prepare the tooth surface.
What happens during veneer placement?
The dentist bonds the custom veneers to your teeth using special cement and light to harden them, making adjustments for a natural look.
Do dental veneers require special care?
Veneers requires regular brushing (twice a day), flossing and regular visits to your dentist at least twice a year.
What are the advantages of dental veneers?
Veneers offer a natural look, long-lasting results, and improve color, shape, and alignment quickly with some structure tooth alteration. They also require regular maintenance. They are a good option for people looking for long term minimalistic solutions.
What are the disadvantages of veneers?
Veneers are generally costlier than other methods and are also not reversible. A patient must take significant consideration before deciding to proceed with veneers. The success of veneers also depends on patient behaviors. Behaviors such as grinding or biting hard can significantly affect veneers.
Do veneers damage your teeth?
Veneers do not cause any damage to the underlying tooth. Only a portion of enamel is removed during preparation for analytical reasons.
Are veneers permanent?
Yes, veneers are permanent since they involve removing the enamel of the tooth. They typically last between 10-15 years before requiring any replacement.
How can I keep my veneers in good condition?
Avoid staining foods, don’t bite hard items, brush and floss daily, use a soft-bristle toothbrush, and visit your dentist regularly.
When should I see my healthcare provider?
See your dentist if a veneer chips, feels loose, causes discomfort, or if you notice any changes in fit or appearance.
