Veneers

With veneers, you can easily correct your teeth’s imperfections to help you have a more confident, beautiful smile. Veneers are natural in appearance and are a perfect option for patients wanting to make minor adjustments to the look and feel of their smile. They are one of the most popular treatments in cosmetic dentistry.

What veneers can fix

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells made from tooth-colored materials such as porcelain. They are designed to cover the front side of your teeth. They can:

• Hide chips, cracks and worn edges
• Cover deep stains that teeth whitening cannot lift
• Close small gaps between teeth
• Make uneven, short or misshapen teeth look even
• Give a slightly crooked tooth the look of a straight one

Are veneers right for you?

Veneers work best on healthy teeth and gums. Decay or gum disease needs to be treated first. If you grind your teeth heavily, veneers can chip, so we may recommend a nightguard alongside them. Placing porcelain veneers usually means removing a thin layer of enamel, so the decision is permanent; we will talk through whether veneers, bonding or another option fits your goals best.

How veneers are made

To prepare for veneers, your doctor will create a unique model of your teeth. This model is sent to a dental technician who creates your veneers. Before placing your new veneer, your doctor may need to conservatively prepare your tooth to achieve the desired aesthetic result.

The veneer process

1. Consultation. We talk about the changes you want, examine your teeth and gums, and plan the shape and shade.
2. Preparation. A thin layer of enamel is gently removed from the front of each tooth, and an impression is taken. Temporary veneers can protect the teeth while you wait.
3. Placement. When your veneers return from the lab, usually in a few weeks, we check the fit and color, then bond them in place.

Most people go back to normal activities the same day.

Living with veneers

When your veneers are placed, you’ll be pleased to see that they look like your natural teeth. While veneers are stain-resistant, your doctor may recommend that you avoid coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco to maintain the beauty of your new smile. Brush and floss as usual, avoid biting hard objects such as ice or pens, and keep up with regular checkups. Whitening products do not change the color of porcelain and can scratch its surface.

With proper care, porcelain veneers typically last 10 to 15 years.

Veneers or bonding?

Looking for a quicker, lower-cost fix for a small chip? Compare veneers with bonding, which can often be done in one visit without removing enamel. Cosmetic treatment is usually not covered by dental insurance, so see our financial information page for payment options, including CareCredit. Request an appointment to plan your new smile.