What to Expect from Dental Veneers

What are dental veneers and how do they work? This treatment can be used to correct chipped, broken, discolored, or smaller than average teeth. Here’s what you need to know about dental veneers.

What are Dental Veneers?

Essentially, veneers are thin, tooth-colored shells that attach to the front of your teeth. This can be done to improve the appearance and functionality of teeth. Often, veneers are made of porcelain or resin composite materials. They are permanently bonded to your teeth.

Dental veneers can be used to address a variety of dental concerns. Additionally, someone may get one veneer to correct a broken tooth while others may get six, eight, or more veneers to create a more symmetrical smile.

Types of Veneers

There are a few different types of veneers. These include porcelain, composite resin veneers, and no-prep veneers.

Typically, dental veneers are made of porcelain or composite resin and they require extensive prep work. However, there are also “no-prep” veneers. But these are applied through a different process.

Traditional porcelain veneers are applied by grinding down the tooth structure to allow for proper placement. Since this can cause discomfort, it is usually done with local anesthetic. After the tooth reduction, the veneers are permanently bonded to your teeth.

For composite resin veneers, the dentist etches the surface of the tooth and then applies a thin layer of composite material. Additional layers are applied to create the intended look. Then the dentist will cure, or harden, the composite with a special light.

Lastly, we have no prep veneers. These include options like Vivaneers and Lumineers, which are specific brands of porcelain veneers. They take less time to apply and are less invasive. Additionally, no prep veneers only affect the enamel of the tooth, whereas traditional porcelain veneers may remove layers of tooth beyond the enamel.

Best Dental Veneers Near Me

If you want a smile that is beautiful and functional, veneers may be the right option. To learn more about your options for dental veneers, please contact Dr. Hackley and team today!