Veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry treatment designed to improve the appearance of your smile by covering the front surface of teeth with thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored material. Veneers can transform your smile by addressing a variety of aesthetic concerns, providing a long-lasting and natural-looking solution.
Indications for veneers include:
- Discolored or stained teeth
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Worn or misshapen teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Mildly crooked or misaligned teeth
The veneer process typically requires at least two appointments. During the initial consultation, Dr. Triplett will assess your teeth and discuss your aesthetic goals. Depending on your needs, we may do a full cosmetic work-up, which includes a full series of photographs and initial impressions that we will use to design your ideal smile.
There are two types of veneers available–porcelain veneers and composite veneers.
Porcelain veneers, also known as indirect or lab-fabricated veneers, are the more common option, and provide the best long-term results in terms of appearance, durability, and longevity.
- Material: These veneers are made from high-quality dental ceramics like porcelain, which closely resemble the appearance and translucency of natural teeth.
- Fabrication Process: Ceramic veneers are custom-made in a dental laboratory using digital impressions of your teeth. This typically requires at least two appointments: one for tooth preparation and impression-taking, and another for veneer placement and bonding.
- Longevity: Ceramic veneers are highly resistant to staining and chipping, and with proper care, they can last between 10 to 15 years or more.
- Cost: Due to the material used and the lab-fabrication process, ceramic veneers tend to be more expensive than composite veneers.
Composite veneers, also known as chairside veneers, direct veneers, or “tooth bonding,” utilize the same composite resin material that we use for fillings.
- Material: These veneers are made from composite resin, a tooth-colored material that is applied directly to the tooth surface.
- Fabrication Process: Composite veneers are sculpted and bonded to your teeth in a single appointment, as the dentist applies the resin directly to your teeth and shapes it chairside.
- Longevity: Although composite veneers are durable, they are not as stain-resistant or long-lasting as ceramic veneers, typically lasting between 5 to 7 years before they may need replacement or repair.
- Cost: Composite veneers are generally more affordable than ceramic veneers, making them a budget-friendly option for those seeking to improve their smile.
Ceramic veneers offer a more durable and natural-looking result, while composite veneers provide a more cost-effective solution in the short-term. The choice between the two depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Dr. Triplett will help you determine which option is best suited for your unique situation and aesthetic goals.