Est. 1998

Veneers

What are veneers?

The word veneer means a “layer” or a “thin cover”. While the word may have various meanings, within the realm of dentistry, it indicates a thin covering of porcelain or a tooth colored filling material bonded on a tooth. Veneers are categorized as a cosmetic procedure to enhance the shape, size or color of teeth. Hence, veneers are a huge component of any cosmetic makeover a person maybe looking for, in order to improve their smile.

How do I know if I need veneers?

Typically, veneers are an excellent choice in situations like enamel defects, pitting, discolorations or uneven edges and surfaces of teeth. Your dentist will do a full examination of your teeth and gums to determine if you will qualify for the procedure or, in some cases not qualify based on the presentation of the health of your gums and teeth. The full examination includes, but not limited to, photographs of your teeth and gums, detailing your diet and medical history, diagnosing any cavities that may need prior attention, and overall oral hygiene.

Do veneers require shaving down the tooth?

Veneers require minimal amount of preparation of the teeth for the purposes of obtaining a clean, and decontaminated surface to bond. The “shaving” ranges anywhere from 0.3 mm to 0.7 mm, and is typically restricted to within the outermost layer of the tooth – the enamel. Almost the thickness of a contact lens.

What are veneers made of?

Veneers are primarily made of two different materials – porcelain or composite. Porcelain is a hard silica-based glass-like material with chemical properties almost like natural enamel. Porcelain veneers withstand normal chewing forces, just like natural enamel does. When porcelain veneers are planned, the procedure is typically done in two appointments. The teeth are prepared for veneers and temporary veneers are placed, while the permanent porcelain veneers are fabricated in a dental laboratory. Composites are resin-based tooth colored “filling material” which are bonded on to the teeth chairside. Composite veneers are placed in a single appointment and do not require a dental laboratory. Composite veneers come with some drawbacks which will be discussed in detail with you during your free consultation. Request an appointment

Do veneers break easily?

Veneers typically break if there is habitual nocturnal grinding, or routine intake of extremely hard, crunchy and sticky foods. Your dentist will also plan a night guard to protect your veneers, but certain lifestyle modifications will need to be made in order to ensure longevity for your veneers. Your dentist will discuss in detail the care and maintenance as necessary.

How much do veneers cost?

There is a large variation in the cost of veneers depending on how much preparation is needed ahead of the actual procedure, so it becomes impractical to mention a generalized dollar figure. We can provide you with a ballpark estimate during the first visit and a more definitive estimate during the subsequent visit after we have collected some preliminary data.

Are veneers covered by insurance?

Insurance companies categorize veneers as a cosmetic and elective procedure and generally do not cover them. However, our office works closely with Care Credit, and you can make monthly payments to them for the procedure.