Have a big event coming up in the near future or just want to look your best for an important job interview? Veneers may be an easy way to a big, warm smile. Unlike many dental procedures involving artificial surfaces, veneers apply easily and require very little time to get just right. Even so, you’ll end up with a beautiful smile that will last for years to come.
Veneers, The Basics
Usually, we use veneers to help resurface your visible teeth, much like artificial nails are used to quickly improve the look of natural fingernails. You can use veneers to resurface your entire smile or just a few trouble teeth, making them a flexible option. Only the front and chewing surfaces are recovered, so there’s very little in the way of adjustment required on your part.
Veneers aren’t for everyone, though. Your underlying teeth must be healthy and intact. Even though we’re installing a new surface for you, damaged or diseased teeth will need more thorough treatment (although they can be similarly repaired with different processes). When whitening won’t achieve the results you desire, veneers almost certainly will.
Veneers can be used to close spaces between teeth, change the shape of your teeth, improve the look of teeth that are worn (but not damaged), whiten your teeth instantly or simply protect teeth at risk of damage from experiencing additional wear.
Veneer Materials
There are two main types of veneers we create: porcelain and composite. Composite veneers are faster to produce because they’re made of a material that’s resin-based. Because of this, though, they don’t last as long as porcelain veneers and can stain and darken over time.
Porcelain veneers are our go-to veneer choice most of the time due to their durability, but they take at least two visits to produce. However, they don’t stain like composites and, unless you’re a tooth-grinder or are using your teeth in a way that they’re not really meant to be used, can last many years.