The 4 Types of Dental Veneers Explained

Dental veneers are artificial tooth-colored shells that are fitted over the front of a damaged tooth. In most cases, veneers are used to restore the natural appearance, size, shape, and color of a chipped, misshaped, or discolored tooth. They are frequently used in smile makeovers in cosmetic dentistry.

Dental veneer installation is easy and usually has a high success rate. It’s no wonder they’re a popular choice for many people with damaged teeth. If you’re wondering if veneers are a good fit for you, you should visit your dentist for a professional dental examination.

Hammond Pond Dental Group offers quality dental veneers in Chestnut Hill, MA. If your dentist confirms that you’re eligible for this procedure, they will guide you through a list of possible dental veneer options.

Types of Dental Veneers

The most common types of dental veneers include:

• Porcelain Veneers

A porcelain veneer procedure is typically performed in multiple appointments. These procedures focus on improving the patient’s smile. As the name suggests, porcelain veneers are crafted from porcelain, one of the most popular materials for tooth restorations.

Porcelain is popular for its strength, longevity, and great aesthetics. Besides, porcelain veneers are biocompatible, meaning that they are unlikely to cause injuries to the soft gum tissues surrounding the tooth. Here is what to expect:

• The dentist will trim the tooth to create enough space for the veneer to fit on the tooth without impeding your bite.
• The dentist will then create a putty mold of the tooth, which is sent to the lab for permanent veneer creation. If your dentist has unique 3D mapping technology, they can create the veneer right there, right then. If they don’t, you’ll have to go home and come in for a second appointment once the permanent veneer is ready.
• Before booking you for a second appointment, the dentist will apply a temporary veneer on the tooth.
• During the second appointment, the dentist will apply an acidic gel on the tooth’s surface to dissolve minerals, leaving a rough surface for easy bonding with the veneer.
• The dentist will then cement the veneer in place and harden it with a special light.
• The dentist may schedule other follow-up appointments to review your progress.

Advantages

• Stain-resistant
• Blends in with the natural teeth
• Strong – has fewer risks of chipping, breaking, or fracturing
• Long-lasting – can last for up to 15 years if well cared for
• Smooth and biocompatible – doesn’t harm the surrounding teeth or gum tissues

• Composite Veneers

Unlike porcelain veneers, composite veneers only require one visit to the dental office. They offer cosmetic repair for various tooth issues such as chipping and cracking. Composite veneers are crafted from a composite resin – a combination of organic and inorganic materials.

Like porcelain veneers, they blend in well with the teeth’s natural color. Composite veneers are also less expensive and offer a permanent solution for damaged teeth. However, they are less strong, durable, and stain-resistant compared to porcelain veneers.

Like porcelain veneers, these veneers require a little tooth shaving or trimming before placement.

Advantages

• Less invasive than porcelain veneers
• Relatively strong and long-lasting (can last for as long as seven years)
• Only requires a single appointment
• Lower risk of hurting the gum tissues and surrounding teeth
• Easy to repair in case they chip or break

• Lumineers

These types of veneers are crafted from an ultra-thin porcelain laminate material. They require minimal preparation and are applied in two appointments. They’re best suited for restoring discolored and irregular-shaped teeth.

Unlike porcelain and composite veneers, the installation procedure does not require tooth shaving due to their ultra-thin nature. They blend in well with the natural teeth and have high durability and resistance. If well cared for, these veneers can last for more than 20 years.

Even better, they are reversible if you change your mind and are less costly than porcelain veneers, though not as strong.

Advantages

• Minimal or no pain
• Reversible
• Strong and long-lasting
• Requires less tooth shaving
• Less expensive than porcelain veneers

• Removable Veneers

Also known as Snap-On veneers, removable veneers are removable false teeth that are fitted onto your damaged tooth. They are made of resin and are categorized into two types: instant and custom-made clip in veneers. Removable veneers are made to blend in with natural teeth and can be worn or removed as needed. They work like dentures.

Advantages

• Removable
• Less expensive
• Strong and long-lasting
• Simple procedure

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re considering dental veneers, schedule a consultation with Hammond Pond Dental Group. We can help you determine which type of dental veneers would be most suitable for you.

Learn More:- What Dental Issues Can Veneers Fix?