What are dental veneers?
Many people assume 'veneers' is a dental term, but it actually originates from furniture and carpentry. A veneer is something that covers the surface of something else to improve its appearance. In dentistry, a veneer involves placing composite, which is a white filling material, or more commonly, ceramic, over the surface of your existing teeth to enhance their appearance.
When would a dentist recommend using veneers?
A dentist may recommend veneers when your teeth are discolored, misshaped, or too small. Essentially, any aspect of your teeth’s appearance that you're unhappy with can be corrected with veneers. This is as long as you have enough solid tooth structure to place the veneer on top of, and you're cavity-free or have a small cavity that can be treated with the veneer.
How do dental veneers differ from crowns?
While veneers and crowns look very similar, the main difference lies in the preparation of the tooth. A crown requires more reduction of the tooth structure, including its height and thickness. Conversely, a veneer can often be applied directly over your natural teeth without removing any tooth structure, or if necessary, requires significantly less reduction than a crown.
What is the process for placing veneers?
The process begins with a consultation to determine whether we need to reduce your teeth's size. Often, anesthesia isn't necessary unless significant reshaping is involved. If required, we place temporary veneers. These are only needed if the teeth's shape is significantly altered. After about two weeks, we place the permanent veneer, cementing it over your existing teeth. This process is pre-designed. We use digital smile design technology, taking pictures on your first visit and creating veneers specific to your facial specifications. We even 3D print trial veneers so you can see the end result before you agree to the procedure.
Will the bonding cement and veneers match my teeth color?
Yes, the cement and veneers will either match or enhance your teeth color. If you're unhappy with the color of your teeth, the veneers can lighten them. If you want to keep the same color but change the shape, we can do that too.
What are the differences between porcelain and composite veneers?
Composite veneers use white filling material and can stain over time. On the other hand, porcelain or ceramic material does not stain, making it a better option if you consume staining substances like coffee or wine. However, composite veneers are quicker and cheaper to produce.
How much do veneers cost?
The cost varies depending on the materials used. It could be as much as $1,500 per tooth, but most cases cost less to keep it affordable. We usually recommend a minimum of six veneers, always in even numbers for symmetry.
Are there financing options for veneers?
Yes, we work with several third-party lenders to provide financing options. With decent credit, you can spread payments out over five years.
Does insurance cover the cost of veneers?
Insurance does not typically cover veneers because they are considered cosmetic.
How can I schedule an appointment for dental veneers?
If you're interested in veneers, call us at (845) 393-9059. We'll schedule a consultation and provide a 3D mock-up of your new smile with temporary veneers. Once you're happy with the design, we'll proceed with creating the permanent veneers.
Veneers offer a natural-looking cosmetic enhancement that can significantly transform your smile.
They can be applied to one or multiple teeth for various aesthetic reasons, including:
- Correcting gaps between teeth
- Adjusting uneven lengths
- Aligning slightly misaligned teeth
- Correcting discoloration
- Restoring chipped teeth
- Addressing minor crookedness
- Altering size or shape
Veneers cover the front surface of the tooth and slightly wrap around the sides and biting edge. Typically, each tooth receiving a veneer undergoes careful preparation before the veneer is fabricated and placed. This preparation involves removing a thin layer of enamel from the natural tooth in the areas that will be covered by the veneer, ensuring a seamless fit with the tooth's contours. Veneers are attached using a strong bonding material that hardens under a specialized light.
There are several types of veneers available:
- Porcelain Veneers: Considered the most durable and aesthetically pleasing, these veneers are custom-made in a lab to match the dentist's specifications. They mimic the natural enamel's look and properties, offering customized size, color, shape, and fit.
- Composite Veneers: Made from composite resin, these veneers are more affordable than porcelain ones. While they can improve tooth color, size, or shape, they may not last as long as porcelain veneers and are susceptible to staining.
- Instant Veneers: These prefabricated resin veneers come in various sizes and shapes but lack customization. They are not recommended as they do not match the quality, appearance, or durability of custom veneers.