Dental Veneers

What are Dental Veneers?

Dental Veneers can best be described as shells, made of either composite resin or porcelain, that are customized to fit perfectly over your teeth. Veneers improve the appearance of your teeth and can be extremely helpful if you have teeth that are permanently stained, chipped, or misshaped. Most veneers are done for cosmetic reasons, but some veneers can be used by your dentist as part of a complete dental plan to treat gum disease and other dental problems.

The different type of Dental Veneers and their cost:

Composite veneers - Composite veneers are also known as direct veneers. Composite resin is a tooth colored coating that is applied directly to your tooth. This type of veneer is sculpted and shaped to your existing teeth and then hardened using a special high-intensity light. Additional coatings can be done in order to achieve the desired look. Once the desired look is achieved, the resin is polished to give it a more tooth like appearance. Composite veneers also require less prep work and do not significantly alter your original teeth. Because composite veneers can be done in house, this is a much quicker and less invasive procedure. This type of veneer typically last from 5-7 years.

Porcelain Veneers- Also known as indirect veneers, porcelain veneers are a much stronger and durable veneer, generally lasting between 10-15 years. Porcelain veneers are made to custom fit your teeth, so this requires a minimum of two office visits, one to fit and measure your teeth and one to place the veneers. Most porcelain veneers are sent away to be formed in a lab. Unlike composite veneers, porcelain veneers require reshaping of your teeth in order to fit the veneers. Most dentist agree that porcelain veneers are more realistic looking and stand up better against staining and chipping.

How do I know which type of veneer is right for me?

In order to figure out which veneer is right for you, it is important to speak with your dentist and thoroughly discuss your cosmetic goals. It is also important to take your financial situation into consideration when investing in your teeth. Although porcelain veneers do cost about twice as much as composite veneers, they also last abut twice as long. It may also be important for you to take into consideration the prep work and permanent impact on your teeth. If you are looking for a more cost effective and less invasive option, composite veneers may be for you. If durability and a more realistic look is your goal, and cost is not as much of a consideration, porcelain veneers may be your best option. 

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about our dental veneer options please call our office at 561-855-4703 or use our contact us page to schedule an appointment.