Dental Veneers - A Review of Types, Costs and Benefits

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are made of tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. They are an excellent cosmetic dental treatment option for people who want to enhance the appearance of their teeth.

Dental veneers can be made of porcelain or composite resin, and they are an excellent option for people who want to correct the following issues with their teeth.

When to Get Veneers

Teeth that are chipped or broken
Teeth that are misaligned, irregularly shaped, or uneven
Teeth that have large gaps between them
Teeth that are severely discolored or stained and cannot be whitened with traditional teeth whitening methods
Teeth that are worn down

Types of Veneers

Porcelain veneers

Porcelain veneers are made from a type of ceramic material that is similar in appearance and strength to natural tooth enamel. They are highly durable and resistant to staining, making them an ideal option for people who have stained or discolored teeth due to genetics, medication, or lifestyle habits such as smoking or consuming staining foods and drinks. Porcelain veneers are also able to mimic the light-reflecting properties of natural teeth, making them appear very lifelike.

Composite resin veneers

On the other hand, composite resin veneers are made from a mixture of plastic and glass particles. They are less durable than porcelain veneers, but they are also less expensive. Composite resin veneers can be applied directly to the tooth surface in a single appointment, whereas porcelain veneers require at least two appointments. Composite resin veneers are a good option for people who have minor tooth imperfections such as small chips or gaps between the teeth.

In terms of the procedure, both types of veneers require the dentist to remove a small amount of tooth enamel to make room for the veneer. An impression of the tooth is then taken and sent to a dental laboratory where the veneer is custom-made. Once the veneer is ready, the dentist will bond it to the tooth using a special dental cement.

Minimal preparation or “no-prep” veneers.

In addition to the traditional veneers, there are also “minimal preparation” or “no-prep” veneers. These veneers are a type of porcelain veneers that require little or no tooth reduction, so the procedure is less invasive. They are an alternative for people who want to improve the appearance of their teeth but don’t want to remove much of their natural tooth structure.

The process of getting dental veneers usually involves the following steps:

Consultation: During the consultation, the cosmetic dentist will examine your teeth and discuss your treatment options with you. They will also take impressions of your teeth and create a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs.
Preparing the teeth: Before the veneers can be placed, the dentist will need to prepare the teeth by removing a small amount of enamel from the front surface of the teeth. This is done to ensure that the veneers fit properly and look natural.
Placing the veneers: Once the teeth are prepared, the dentist will place the veneers on the teeth and make any necessary adjustments. The veneers are then bonded to the teeth using a special adhesive.
Aftercare: It is essential to practice good oral hygiene and visit the dentist regularly to ensure that your veneers remain in good condition. Avoid biting or chewing hard foods, such as ice or hard candy, and avoid grinding your teeth, as these activities can damage the veneers.

Benefits of Veneers

There are a few benefits to getting dental veneers, including:

Improved appearance: Dental veneers can drastically improve the appearance of your teeth, giving you a brighter and more attractive smile.
Durability: Porcelain veneers are very durable and can last for many years with proper care.
Stain-resistant: Porcelain veneers are resistant to stains, so they can help to keep your teeth looking white and bright for many years.
Customized: Dental veneers are custom-made to fit your teeth, so they look natural and blend in with your surrounding teeth.

Problems with Veneers

There are also a few drawbacks to consider when deciding if dental veneers are the right option for you:

Cost: Dental veneers can be expensive, especially porcelain veneers. See how much other solutions in cosmetic dentistry cost.
Invasiveness: The process of getting dental veneers involves removing a small amount of enamel from the front surface of the teeth