Intro To Veneers | TTB

Veneers may be a great option for you if you would like a fresh start for your smile. After visiting your general dentist, a Prosthodontist will likely be the one to take you on your veneer journey.

However, now you may be wondering what exactly are veneers?

Veneers are caps typically made of porcelain or composite resin material which are created to cover your natural teeth. They also are used for cosmetic purposes where the dentist places a porcelain or composite resin layer over the tooth to retain a white smile that stains at a minimal amount.

A few reasons to consider veneers for yourself are if your teeth are stained, misshaped, or if you have gapping problems. The process of getting veneers will involve consideration by your dentist or Prosthodontist to see if they are the right choice for your teeth and overall dental health.

If they are approved, the next step will be the production of the veneers specifically for your mouth and the prosthodontist will prepare your teeth for bonding. Preparation may include shaving, filing, or sculpting the tooth for the most efficient placement of the veneer. Placement will include the bonding of the veneer to your tooth using cement and then making sure your bite is normal.

Now that you know the process, you might be wondering how long will the veneers last?

This depends on the material your veneer is made out of. Porcelain veneers are the most long lasting with an average lifespan of ten to twenty years. Composite veneers have been shown to last less than ten years. Nevertheless, the better you take care of your teeth the longer the veneers will last. However, the time will likely come when you will need to replace the veneer(s) and the process will be repeated again.

The last thing to consider is the cost of the veneer. Porcelain veneers are usually $1000-$2500 per tooth and composite veneers are usually $250-$1500 per tooth. Despite this price, many patients with veneers have shown them to be worth it! Something to keep in mind is that veneers are not regularly covered by insurance, so the payment would be coming out of your own pocket.

It is important to weigh out the factors and discuss your options with your dentist or Prosthodontist before making a decision about whether to proceed with veneers. The decision, however, is ultimately yours and we wish you the best on your dental journey!

Written by: Ria Menon