What are dental veneers?
Dental veneers are thin shells of material, usually made out of porcelain or composite, that a dentist puts on top of your teeth to correct imperfections, staining, or other things you're not happy with. Composite veneers are made from a resin material similar to the material used for fillings. Keep in mind that veneers only cover the front surface of your teeth. They don't cover the whole tooth as a crown would.
What problems can dental veneers correct?
Dental veneers can correct staining and discoloration. Sometimes you have fillings or little white spots on your teeth, and veneers can help correct those. Sometimes you have teeth that aren't proportional to the rest of your teeth. They may be smaller or bigger, and veneers can correct that. If you have gaps between your teeth, veneers can correct those too.
Veneers can also correct mild alignment issues, such as teeth that are a little crowded or rotated. The veneers can help reshape the teeth and make them look straighter and more aligned with the rest of your smile. Sometimes your teeth are uneven in length, too short, or too long, and we can correct those concerns as well.
Are dental veneers permanent or removable?
Dental veneers are meant to be permanent. The dentist bonds the veneers to the surface of your teeth so they're stabilized and can last for a long time. There are other types of snap-on veneers, but that's not what I'm discussing today.
What should I expect during the dental veneer process?
It's really important to start with a consultation so you can share with the dentist what you expect. Then the dentist can perform an examination, evaluate the situation, and come up with a realistic and achievable result. We'll take some X-rays and do a scan. We'll send those records to the lab so the lab can make something called a mock-up, which represents the proposed outcome. We'll plan the veneers according to your preferences for the length, width, shape, and color.
Once we approve the plan, we'll start the procedure. On the day of the procedure, the dentist will numb you and make you comfortable. Then we'll remove a very thin layer of enamel. We'll pack cords and take the records either with a traditional impression, using the material that you put in your mouth for about five minutes, or with a digital scan. In our office, we use a digital scan and send the records electronically to the lab.
After that, you'll be provided with a set of temporary veneers. We make a copy of the mock-up of the proposed outcome that we discussed earlier and place the temporaries in your mouth while the lab takes about two to three weeks to make the permanent veneers. During that time, you'll let us know if you're happy with them or if any fine-tuning is needed. We'll share that information with the lab so they can make the final veneers to your liking.
After about two to three weeks, you'll come back in. We'll remove the temporary veneers and place the permanent veneers. After you check the shade, size, and color and approve them, the dentist will permanently bond the veneers to your teeth. In our office, we usually like you to come back in about a week to check that you're comfortable and see if any final adjustments are needed.
Will dental veneers match my other teeth?
It's always our goal to give you a restoration with a color that matches the rest of your teeth so it doesn't look artificial. The difference is that you're getting veneers to improve the appearance of your smile. We may advise you to whiten your teeth first to improve the shade, and then we can choose a veneer color that matches the lighter shade of your natural teeth. That can help create a more natural-looking result.
What are the different types of dental veneers?
There are typically two types of dental veneers: porcelain veneers and resin composite veneers. In our office, we do porcelain veneers the majority of the time. Porcelain veneers tend to last longer, are stronger, and have a more translucent, lifelike appearance. They also resist stains better and tend to be less prone to cracks and chips.
Composite veneers tend to stain more easily, they're weaker, and they may chip more easily. The edge where the composite meets the tooth may also develop staining or cavities. Another important difference is that porcelain veneers are made by a dental lab. The technicians can use magnification and work on the veneer while it's outside your mouth, allowing them to do more detailed work. With composite veneers, the dentist works directly on the material while you're in the chair, so there's less control over some aspects of the outcome. In our office, we recommend porcelain veneers in most cases.
Do dental veneers require special care?
Yes, definitely. Think of veneers like fine china. You want to be careful with them. Avoid biting directly into hard foods, ripping meat off a chicken wing with your front teeth, or using your teeth to open things. Also, brush your teeth, floss, maintain good oral hygiene, and see your dentist regularly. Taking good care of your veneers can help them stay in good shape and last longer.
How long do dental veneers last?
As I mentioned earlier, with proper care and proper technique, veneers may last anywhere from five to 10 years, and some of my patients' veneers have lasted 20 years or more. They do require maintenance. Be careful when you chew and eat, avoid chewing on hard foods, and continue seeing your dentist regularly. With proper care, veneers can last for a long time.
How much do dental veneers cost, and does insurance cover them?
Veneers are generally considered cosmetic. When it comes to cosmetic treatment or something that isn't considered a basic necessity, insurance typically doesn't cover it. Veneers can cost anywhere from about $1,000 or $1,200 to $2,000 per veneer. Keep in mind that there's a lot of work, technique, lab time, and care involved. Veneers are on the more expensive side, but many patients find the result worthwhile.
How do I know if I'm a candidate for dental veneers?
Look at yourself in the mirror and ask yourself, "Am I happy with the way I smile? What is it that's bothering me?" If there's something you want to bring to our attention, give us a call. We provide a no-cost consultation. We'll sit down with you, go over your goals, and discuss the treatment plan so you can understand what veneers may be able to do for your smile.
If you’re ready to schedule an exam or would like to learn more about our services, we’d love to hear from you. Call us at (702) 847-8662 or email [email protected]. We look forward to caring for your smile.