Veneers: What You Need to Know

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Anna Roth

Medical Content Writer

Dr. Guzin

Medical Reviewer

What Are Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers, those thin custom-made shells that transform your smile, have gained immense popularity in recent years.

Porcelain veneers are permanently affixed to the front surface of your teeth. Custom made veneers enhance your smile by improving the appearance of your teeth. Veneers make teeth look more symmetrical, natural, and overall, aesthetically pleasing.

Dr. Jorge Carrasco, a reputable cosmetic dentist based in Cancun, describes porcelain veneers as a beautiful, strong, smooth ceramic surface, transforming the outer layer of the tooth. Veneers are an excellent choice if your teeth are chipped, fractured, or excessively worn due to grinding patterns. They enhance the look of your teeth and reinforce their strength.

The Art of Smile Makeovers

Consider the extent of your veneer application. Dr. Davidowitz recommends taking the entire smile, including your facial structure, into account, ensuring a personalized, symmetrical, and natural look.

Pros and Cons of Porcelain Veneers

Pros:

Longevity: Traditional porcelain veneers can last a decade or more.

Instant Orthodontics: They can correct minor gaps and alignment issues faster than braces or clear aligners.

Stain-Resistance: Unlike composite veneers, porcelain veneers are resistant to discoloration.

Natural Appearance: Their translucent quality makes them closely resemble natural teeth.

Customization: You can choose from various shades to match your natural teeth.

Versatility: Whether you need veneers for a single tooth or multiple teeth, they can be tailored to your needs.

Gummy Smile Correction: They can make your tooth size more proportionate to your gum display when you smile.

Cons:

Irreversible Process: To accommodate veneers, some natural tooth enamel needs to be filed down, making the process irreversible.

Tooth Sensitivity: Overly aggressive enamel preparation can lead to increased tooth sensitivity.

Not a Cure-All: Veneers can hide many flaws but cannot address severe underlying dental issues.

Susceptibility to Damage: Grinding can chip or crack the porcelain layers, requiring additional protection like a mouthguard.

Repair Costs: If damaged, veneers typically need complete replacement, incurring additional expenses.

Higher Cost: Veneers are pricier than some alternatives but offer dramatic results.

Porcelain Veneer Cost

Porcelain veneers’ cost vary based on location, the dentist’s credentials and the number of veneers needed. The material used to create your dental veneers also affects cost. In the US, prices range from $1,200 for composite veneers, up to $2,500 for zirconia, per tooth. In Mexico and Turkey, dental veneers start from $320 per tooth. On average, dental travelers can expect to save 30-65% over US and UK prices.

Who Is a Suitable Candidate for Porcelain Veneers?

Before considering porcelain veneers, it’s crucial to be in good oral health. Your dentist will examine your mouth and will likely perform X-rays to ensure sound tooth structure. Minor misalignments are fine, but more severe cases may require braces before veneers can be applied.

Are Porcelain Veneers Worth It?

The majority of RealSelf members rate porcelain veneers as “Worth It” (88% Worth It Rating). Many individuals report natural-looking results and a significant boost in confidence. However, it’s essential to note that while veneers offer remarkable results, they also come with risks. Unnatural appearances, misaligned veneers, and complications can occur, especially if you don’t choose a reputable dentist.

How Are Porcelain Veneers Applied?

The process of applying porcelain veneers typically involves three dental appointments:

Initial Consultation: During this visit, you’ll discuss your desired look and potentially see a mock-up or computer simulation of your future smile.

Veneer Preparation: Your dentist will prepare your teeth by shaving a small amount of enamel to create room for the veneers. Temporary veneers will be provided while your custom veneers are being crafted.

Veneer Application: In the final appointment, your custom veneers will be attached to your teeth using a special bonding cement. Your dentist will ensure a proper fit and make any necessary adjustments.

Are Porcelain Veneers Painful?

During the veneer application process, you will be numb, and you should not experience pain. However, some patients may experience bonding sensitivity after the anesthesia wears off. This can cause temporary discomfort, usually subsiding within a few hours. You may also experience mild soreness in your gums as they adapt to the new veneers.

Risks and Side Effects

While porcelain veneers are generally safe, there are potential complications to be aware of, including:

Trauma to the tooth may require a root canal in severe cases.
Damage to tooth structure if enamel is overly shaved.
Chips, breakage, or loss of veneers necessitating replacement.
Gum sensitivity or infection, which can linger for months.
Tooth sensitivity from bonding cement or irritation.
A misaligned bite, which can be corrected with adjustments.

Porcelain Veneers: A Long-Term Commitment

Porcelain veneers are considered permanent, as the process is irreversible. However, their lifespan typically ranges from 15 to 30 years with proper care. Good oral hygiene practices, including regular check-ups, are crucial to maintaining their longevity. Avoid habits that could stress the veneers, such as biting hard objects or using your teeth for non-standard activities.

Lumineers vs. Traditional Porcelain Veneers

Lumineers, a thinner alternative to traditional veneers, offer advantages like reduced enamel shaving and reversibility. However, they may appear bulkier and less natural and can be pricier.

Composite Veneers vs. Porcelain Veneers

Composite resin veneers, which have the advantage of only requiring a single visit, are less expensive but also have a shorter life. Composite veneers are also less stain-resistant and may not look as natural as porcelain veneers.

Porcelain Veneers vs. Dental Implants

The choice between porcelain veneers and dental implants depends on your specific dental issues. Veneers are ideal for cosmetic enhancements, while dental implants replace missing teeth.

Porcelain veneers offer a transformative solution for those seeking a stunning smile.

(FAQs)

How long do porcelain veneers last? Porcelain veneers can last anywhere from 15 to 30 years with proper care and maintenance.
Are porcelain veneers reversible? No, the process of applying porcelain veneers is irreversible, as it involves removing a small amount of natural tooth enamel.
Can veneers fix severely crooked teeth? While veneers can address minor misalignments, severely crooked teeth may require orthodontic treatment before veneers can be applied.
Do veneers require special care? Practicing good oral hygiene, including regular check-ups, is essential to ensure the longevity of your veneers. Avoid habits that could potentially damage them.
How do Lumineers differ from traditional porcelain veneers? Lumineers are thinner and may require less enamel shaving, but they can appear bulkier and less natural in comparison to traditional veneers.

This article is for informational purposes. It is not meant to be construed as dental advice or dental diagnosis or treatment. Consulting with a qualified dental professional before beginning or changing your dental treatment is strongly advised.

Dr. Guzin

Ankara Turkey

Dr. Guzin Kırsaçlıoğlu graduated from Ankara Dental School in 1982 and opened her own practice. Dr.Kirsaçlioglu completed her Master’s in Cosmetic Dentistry at New York University in 2011 as well as annual continuing education courses on dental implants in France, Germany, Spain, and Israel. Today, Dr. Kirsaçlioglu is an internationally recognized, multidisciplinary dental professional running a dental practice with a staff of 18.

She is a member of the American Dental Association (ADA), the Turkish Dental Association (TDB), European Academy of Esthetic Dentistry (EAED), American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AAD) and the European Association for Osseointegration (EAO).

She has authored numerous dental related articles covering the topics of both dental implants and dental aesthetics. When not treating patients, Dr Kirsaçlioglu volunteers in rural villages, teaching children about good oral health and preventative dental care.