What are dental veneers?

Dental veneers are thin shells of porcelain that are designed to cover the front surface of teeth. (Implants and dental crowns can also be used to cover teeth, but veneers are a thinner layer of porcelain.)

Dental veneers are bonded to the front of the teeth. When in place, the dental veneers will appear entirely natural and function just like normal teeth. (Dental veneers will not discolor, stain, or decay.)

Benefits of dental veneers

Veneers can correct variety of cosmetic imperfections. For example, veneers can:

- Resolve gaps in teeth.

- Cover up stains and discoloration.

- Correct teeth that are misshapen, broken, crowded, or crooked.

- Cover over chipped teeth.

- Give teeth a more uniform, symmetrical appearance.

- Give teeth a lengthier appearance.

- Correct the appearance of a diastema, or gap, between the front teeth.

What do veneers fix?

Veneers can be used to fix a variety of dental issues, including:

- Teeth that are stained or discolored

- Teeth that are chipped, cracked, or misaligned

- Teeth that are too small

- Teeth that are too wide

- Gaps between teeth

- Gaps between teeth caused by periodontal disease

Veneers treatment process explained

There are just a few simple steps to receiving dental veneers. First, your dentist will assess your oral health to determine if veneers will be a good fit for you. Then, your dentist will take a mold or impression of your teeth, which will be used to make your custom veneers. Your dentist will also provide instructions for caring for your veneers and for how long you should wear the veneers each day.

Is dental veneers treatment painful?

No, dental veneers treatment is not painful. Dr. Christensen will take impressions of your teeth to send to the dental lab. Temporary veneers will be fitted while you wait for your permanent veneers. Once you have your permanent veneers, you’ll come back into the office to have them bonded to your teeth.

How much does dental veneers cost?

Dental veneers are an elective cosmetic treatment, meaning that they are usually not covered by dental insurance. Cost for veneers varies depending on a number of factors. The starting cost for veneers is around $500 per tooth. The cost can increase based on the size of the tooth, the material used, the dental laboratory used, and more.

Veneers for teeth that are damaged are an even more extensive treatment, which can cost more. This is because it takes more time, expertise, materials, and dental laboratory work to fix a damaged tooth, than a cosmetically flawed tooth.

Alternatives to dental veneers

Dental veneers are a good solution for a variety of cosmetic dental issues, but they are not the only option.

Composite dental bonding: Dental bonding can be used to repair many cosmetic dental issues. It is more conservatively priced than dental veneers, and the process can be completed in a single dental appointment. Composite dental bonding is not as stain-resistant as dental veneers, and composite bonding must be touched up on a regular basis. Composite bonding typically lasts between three to five years.

How long do

Veneers can last between 10 and 20 years. However, since the teeth are permanently altered with veneers, they will need to be replaced at some point.

Veneers can chip or crack if you bite down on hard candies or ice. Without careful and conscientious care, veneers can stain or discolor over time.

Veneers also aren’t recommended for patients who suffer from bruxism.