Severe tooth staining or discoloration may not be treatable with other cosmetic dentistry methods, and may even persist after treatment. Veneers offer a permanent solution by completely covering up the stained tooth and restoring its natural, bright shade.
Veneers can restore the shape and appearance of your teeth if they are worn from issues like teeth grinding (bruxism). If you are struggling with teeth grinding, it’s important to talk to your doctor about getting a night guard to protect your teeth after you get veneers.
As long as the damage is limited to the outer layers of enamel and dentin, veneers may be used to treat minor chipping or breakage in the teeth. If you are struggling with a more serious injury, your tooth may require the use of a dental crown and root canal therapy.
Irregular and misshapen teeth can be treated and restored with veneers, providing you with a straighter and more even smile.
Veneers can resolve any minor tooth misalignment and gap in your smile. After your teeth are trimmed and covered with veneers to correct these issues, you can enjoy a bright, straight, natural-looking smile.
Keep in mind that veneers can only be used to treat minor misalignment and tooth gapping issues. For more serious teeth alignment complications, your dentist may recommend orthodontic care. Treatment such as Invisalign or braces may be required before cosmetic treatment with veneers.
Because veneers are permanently bonded to your tooth, they cannot be removed. This is an irreversible procedure that requires a thin layer of enamel to be permanently drilled away from your teeth. After your treatment is complete, you will need to take proper care of your veneers and replace them if they break or become dislodged.
The longevity of your veneers depends on how well you take care of them, but most patients can maintain the quality and function of their veneers for up to 20 years. Your veneers will wear down over time, so you may need to repair or replace individual veneers.
Brushing and flossing your teeth with care is the best way to prolong the lifespan of your veneers. Be sure to see your dentist every six months for a teeth cleaning and oral exam. Avoid doing things that could damage or dislodge your veneers, such as chewing hard foods with your front teeth, or using your teeth to open items.
Made of ceramic porcelain materials, veneers are crafted to look and feel just like your natural tooth. Porcelain is very similar to enamel in hardness and translucence, making it an ideal durable option. Plus, porcelain can be matched to the exact color of your teeth, allowing it to blend in with the rest of your smile.
Some veneers are also made out of resin. These are typically only used as temporary veneers because resin does not look as natural and is not nearly as durable compared to porcelain ceramic veneers.
While veneers and Lumineers are almost the same, but Lumineers are much thinner than traditional veneers. This is because they are made out of a special, proprietary ceramic material that is only about 0.2mm thick. Due to their thin nature, Lumineers can often be placed without trimming your existing enamel. This is why they’re often called “no-prep” or “minimal-prep” veneers. Traditional veneers, on the other hand, are 0.5mm thick and require the removal of enamel to fit onto your tooth.
Veneers will vary in cost depending on a multitude of factors, including how many teeth you're covering up, your oral health, and the location of each tooth. Contact your dentist to get a cosmetic consultation and an accurate cost estimate. During your consultation, your dentist can take a look at your mouth, assess your oral health, and provide a quote for care.