Veneers are very thin pieces of durable, tooth shaped porcelain that are custom made (for shape and color) by a professional dental laboratory. They are bonded onto the front of teeth to create a beautiful and attractive smile.
Veneers can completely reshape your teeth and smile. They can often be alternatives to crowns and the ideal solution in treating many dental conditions.
As with most dental restorations, veneers are not permanent and may someday need replacement. They are very durable and will last many years, giving you a beautiful long lasting smile.
Reasons for porcelain veneers:
- Cosmetically, to create a uniform, white, beautiful smile.
- Crooked teeth.
- Misshapen teeth.
- Severely discolored or stained teeth.
- Teeth that are too small or large.
- Unwanted or uneven spaces.
- Worn or chipped teeth.
What does getting porcelain veneers involve?
Getting veneers usually requires two visits to complete the process, with little or no anesthesia required during the procedure. The teeth are prepared by lightly buffing and shaping the surface to allow for the thickness of the veneer. A mold or impression of the teeth is taken and a shade (color) will then be chosen by you and the dentist.
On the second visit the teeth will be cleansed with special liquids to achieve a durable bond. Bonding cement is then placed between the tooth and veneer and a special light beam is used to harden and set the bond.
You will receive care instructions for veneers. Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new veneers.
Porcelain Dental Veneer FAQs
What are the benefits of porcelain veneers?
Porcelain veneers cover tooth imperfections that affect the appearance of your smile. These thin shells offer a safe, effective, and efficient solution for tooth cracks, severe discoloration, and minor crooked teeth. Dental veneers require less enamel removal than dental crowns and provide a natural look and feel that mimics that of your teeth. The porcelain material is stain resistant and low maintenance.
Many people are self-conscious of their smile and may refrain from showing their teeth in photos or during conversations. Porcelain veneers restore your confidence so you can show off a wide grin around your friends, family, and coworkers.
How much do porcelain veneers cost?
Porcelain veneers address cosmetic imperfections with your teeth and do not qualify for dental insurance coverage. The price range for dental veneers is between $1,000 and $3,500, depending on several factors. The location, dentist, number of veneers, and procedure length can influence the cost of porcelain veneers.
Dr. Rader offers financing options through CareCredit™, a healthcare credit card company.
Do I need dental veneers or dental crowns?
Some patients think porcelain veneers and dental crowns are interchangeable, but these cosmetic dentistry procedures offer different benefits. Veneers are wafer-thin porcelain shells that adhere to the front surface of your teeth. Dental crowns are caps that cover the entire tooth surface and can be made using porcelain, porcelain fused to PFM (metal alloy), or metal alloy.
Crowns and veneers can cover crooked, chipped, broken, cracked, or discolored teeth and match the color of your natural teeth. Both are cared for with regular dental hygiene. However, crowns are also dental restorations that may be necessary to restore oral health.
Porcelain veneers are best for addressing aesthetic issues and tend to show less tooth surface around the gums than crowns. Dental crowns offer cosmetic improvement for severely damaged teeth and protect the remaining tooth structure. Crowns are thicker than veneers and tend to last longer, although they are more costly.
Dr. Rader will evaluate your oral health and tooth imperfections and recommend the cosmetic dental procedure that fits your needs.
Will porcelain veneers stain?
Porcelain veneers do not stain easily because the material is stain resistant. Composite resin veneers may develop discoloration more easily. Porcelain is a non-porous glass-ceramic combination that won’t absorb red wine, tea, or coffee. Staining on porcelain veneers is rare, even after 10 years.
While it’s rare for porcelain veneers to stain, you may develop temporary discoloration if you are not brushing regularly or scheduling teeth cleanings. Gum recession may reveal the natural tooth along the gum line, which may appear like a tooth stain.
It is not possible to whiten porcelain veneers, so our dentist recommends teeth whitening before placing the shells. Teeth whitening before getting veneers brightens your whole smile and ensures the porcelain is your desired shade.
Are porcelain veneers permanent?
Yes, porcelain veneers require tooth enamel removal from the surface of your teeth. Dental veneers permanently adhere to your teeth and will need replacing if they chip or become worn over time (typically 10-15 years).
Do porcelain veneers require special care?
No, porcelain veneers do not require special cleaning. Good dental hygiene at home will keep your veneers and overall smile looking spotless. Brush in the morning and before bed, and floss between your teeth at least once per day. Brushing, flossing, or rinsing with mouthwash after meals can keep your teeth sparkling all day.
Porcelain veneers are more susceptible to chips and cracks than your natural teeth. Avoid hard candies, using your teeth like tools to open packaging, and chewing on ice or pens. Limit foods and beverages that may stain your natural teeth or rinse or brush within 30 minutes after enjoying these snacks or drinks.
A soft-bristled toothbrush is best for your teeth, and a non-abrasive toothpaste can help you enjoy your porcelain veneers and a healthy mouth long term.
