Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are thin porcelain ceramic “covers” that can be attached to teeth. They are a half-millimeter thick or less and they have a beautiful, natural, semi-translucent appearance. They are also known as porcelain laminates. Porcelain veneers are often very simple to apply and they are increasing in popularity as more people seek to achieve a “perfect smile.”

Porcelain veneers can fix the appearance of teeth that are most visible when smiling. The following problems can be eliminated with veneers:

•  permanently discolored teeth

•  crooked teeth

•  oddly shaped teeth

•  unnaturally colored fillings

•  broken or chipped teeth

•  gaps between teeth

Porcelain veneers are considered permanent restorative dental work. They should last 10 to 15 years or longer. Plastic veneers usually do not last as long and are not as aesthetically pleasing. Porcelain veneers can be damaged if a person with veneers uses their teeth to perform unusual tasks that put tensile pressure on the teeth, such as using the teeth to open bottles or hard nut shells. People who excessively clench or grind their teeth may need a night guard to help protect the teeth and veneers.

The Procedure

At the initial office visit once a decision is made to use porcelain veneers, the dentist may do some simple contouring of the teeth and then take an impression of the teeth. A half-millimeter or less of the tooth may be removed to make room for the veneers. This procedure can be done with or without anesthetic, as per the patient’s needs. While waiting for the veneers to be made, the teeth may be more sensitive to hot and cold than normal.

The impressions are sent to a dental lab that makes the porcelain veneers in about a week. On the second visit, the veneers are applied using a light-sensitive resin and white light. Another visit to the dentist about a week after having the veneers placed will ensure everything is going according to plan.

Cost

The average cost for porcelain veneers is about $1,100 per veneer, plus the cost of the office visits. As porcelain veneers are considered primarily cosmetic, dental insurance usually does not cover their cost.

Determining if Veneers are Right for You

You may not be a candidate for porcelain veneers if you have active decay or weakened/compromised front teeth. Further, if you are a habitual teeth-clencher or teeth-grinder, your dentist may advise against getting veneers. Veneers can be applied by any properly trained cosmetic dentist. Contact a dentist’s office of your choice for a visit to see if veneers are a good choice for you.