Veneers
Confidence in your smile changes everything. We craft beautiful, natural-looking veneers using the latest techniques.
Considering veneers?
Upgrading your smile permanently is a big decision. And more importantly, it's an investment in your happiness. When done right, dental veneers can help you achieve the incredible smile you've always wanted.
What are veneers?
Veneers are one of the most common cosmetic dentistry procedures (and it's easy to see why). The beauty is in their versatility; you can correct just about anything you don't like – such as spaced, uneven, worn down, cracked, chipped or stained teeth.
Veneers are similar to acrylic fingernails in that a very thin shell is applied over the existing tooth – this allows the veneer to be customized to the exact size, shape and shade you desire. And, the best part? It requires little to no grinding of the teeth.
Is a veneer the same thing as a cap?
No, but they're similar in some ways. Veneers and crowns are often made of the same material (porcelain). However, a veneer only covers the front of the tooth and is typically done for aesthetic reasons, while a crown completely covers it and is used to restore function to the tooth.
Veneers require minimal to no removal of the tooth structure (0.5 mm, or almost half the thickness of a credit card).
What kinds of veneers are available?
Veneers are made using one of two materials: porcelain or resin composite. These are commonly used in dental procedures like crowns and fillings.
Porcelain Veneers (Lab-Made)
Porcelain is as strong as it is gorgeous. Porcelain veneers are the most natural-looking and long-lasting solution. The process usually takes two appointments: 1) to prep and temporize, and 2) to seat.
While most patients favor porcelain veneers, they're the more expensive option of the two.
Resin Composite Veneers (In-Office)
Also known as dental bonding, resin composite veneers are recommended as a short-term solution or when finances are a concern. (They’ll stain over time.) Treatment only takes one appointment, and the veneers are applied directly to the teeth.
Composite veneers are commonly done for kids with genetically small teeth after they finish braces. They're also used to temporarily hold the space until the patient has finished growing (usually late teens or early 20s) when a more permanent solution is available.
Common FAQs
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Consultation
First, you’ll book a consultation with your dentist to determine if you're a good candidate for veneers. This appointment typically consists of an exam, digital X-rays and taking impressions to create a 3D model of your new smile. Veneers typically take one to two appointments, depending on the material. For porcelain, a dental lab will fabricate the veneer. For resin composite, your dentist will handcraft it right there in the office.
Fabrication
Next, your dentist will clean your tooth and shade-match it. They'll remove a thin layer of enamel (about the thickness of a credit card) from the tooth to create room to seat the veneer. While this doesn't cause pain, we're happy to numb the area to help keep you comfortable. Sometimes, removing enamel isn't necessary and the veneer can be applied directly to your existing tooth.
Then, we'll make an impression of the tooth. If you're opting for porcelain, your dentist will place a temporary veneer over the tooth while we wait for the final to be delivered. Most veneers are ready in about 14 days, so you'll have plenty of time to determine if we need to make any last-minute adjustments.
Application
Once your veneer arrives, your dentist will remove the temporary and clean your tooth. After the final veneer has been prepped (a process commonly referred to as 'etching'), they'll place it on your tooth with dental adhesive. Then, they'll cure the veneer with a special light for 20 seconds across all the surfaces of your tooth to ensure it has set.
Lastly, your dentist will remove any excess material and clean up around the edges of your tooth to make sure it blends in seamlessly with the rest of your teeth. Then, it's time to show off that beautiful smile!
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Improving the appearance of discolored, stained, or chipped teeth: Veneers can cover up cosmetic imperfections, giving teeth a more even and natural-looking appearance.
Lengthening short teeth: Veneers can make teeth appear longer and more proportionate to the rest of the smile.
Altering the shape of teeth: Veneers can reshape teeth that are too small, have irregular edges, or are misaligned.
Closing gaps between teeth: Veneers can close gaps between teeth, giving the appearance of a more uniform and symmetrical smile.
Durable and long-lasting: Veneers are made of strong, durable materials that can last many years with proper care and maintenance.
Minimal tooth reduction: Veneers require minimal tooth reduction compared to crowns, meaning that more of the natural tooth structure is kept intact.
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You want to treat veneers like your natural teeth – by brushing and flossing regularly, and seeing your dentist twice a year for check-ups. We also recommend non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste to keep them in the best shape possible.
If discoloration was a problem for you prior to getting veneers, consider limiting your intake of stain-causing substances like coffee or tobacco. Dental prosthetics such as veneers, crowns and bridges can't be whitened in the future. And while porcelain veneers are stain-resistant, composite veneers can stain very easily (like natural teeth), so be sure to stay on top of your oral care.
Additionally, it's important to keep in mind that your veneers will need to be replaced in the future. While porcelain can last 10-20 years and composite can last up to 5 years with proper care, they'll need to be traded in for a new set once they wear out.