Getting a veneer can make it feel like your dentist is a magician. It’s one of the best tricks in the bag of cosmetic dentistry services.
This small covering over your tooth makes issues such as stains, chips, and cracks disappear. Picking the right one made from the right material can leave you transformed.
Read on to learn the main types of veneers to choose from.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain is one of the most common, durable, and natural-looking types of veneers. They can address a variety of cosmetic concerns, including:
- Crooked teeth
- Gaps
- Chips
- Discoloration
- Stains
They can restore one tooth or a group of them. They can also replace part of the tooth or cover it entirely.
Prior damage isn’t a problem. The veneer can hide crowns or bridges that don’t fit properly due to decay or injury.
These veneers aren’t likely to cause any further damage. They’re biocompatible and rarely damage the gums or the soft tissue in the mouth.
Consider them a permanent solution. They can last 8-15 years but are one of the more expensive options. They also require a lengthy procedure to place.
Taking impressions is enough to make you gag. The dentist may also have to shape or shave down your teeth.
Candidates for the procedure need to have healthy gums and no history of gum disease. They’re not the best choice for the 30% of the population that has bruxism or tooth grinding. It could damage the veneer or make it fall out. They can’t be repaired if this happens, and you’ll have to start the process all over again to have them replaced.
Composite Veneers
Have you already had cosmetic dental services such as bonding treatments? Do your teeth still not look the way you want them to?
Composite resin veneers are the best option in this case. They use a natural, tooth-colored material that’s similar to what’s used in a tooth filling. This helps them blend in better with the rest of your mouth.
They’re also easy to apply. The dentist won’t have to shape your teeth as much and can complete the procedure in a few visits. This makes them one of the less expensive types of veneers.
Composite veneers are strong, but they aren’t as durable as porcelain. They only last 5-10 years but can be repaired if they get stained or chipped.
Ceramic Veneers
Ceramics are another one of the most popular types of veneers. It’s durable and effective at mimicking your natural teeth.
They do take longer to create than most other veneers. You may also experience a bit of tooth sensitivity when you first start wearing them, but it should go away.
Zirconia
Zirconia is one of the most reliable veneer materials for candidates with teeth that are too damaged for other options. They’re a way to improve the appearance of teeth that have suffered extensive decay, cracks, or chips.
Zirconia veneers provide a more natural appearance without changes to existing dental work. They’re also durable because they can stand up to damage from acidic foods and drinks.
Lumineers
Lumineers are a brand of veneer that’s made of a strong composite resin. They’re applied in ultra-thin layers for a natural look.
They’re an effective option for those who want to improve the appearance of more than one tooth. They can fix discoloration and irregularly shaped teeth.
They’re also a solution for those with gingival recession that kept them from being a candidate for other options. You won’t lose as much gum tissue around the tooth while they’re being installed.
The process of installing Lumineers isn’t extensive. The dentist won’t have to remove as much enamel. It’s less expensive than porcelain and is even reversible. The look and feel is natural and feels smooth to the touch.
The main downside is that Lumineers are prone to damage. Other options have a longer lifespan.
Palatal Veneers
Previous dental work doesn’t always keep you from being a candidate for veneers. Have you had extensive work done and don’t have enough tooth structure left to support them? Do you have missing teeth, you may want to consider a palatal option.
They’re made of porcelain, composite, or gold. They’re applied to the inside of the upper teeth to reduce wear and tear. The surrounding teeth work as anchors.
Same-Day Veneers
These are also known as CEREC® veneers. As the name suggests, they can be applied in one visit.
In-office CAD/CAM technology creates a set of custom veneers. The dentist fits them to your teeth and makes minor adjustments before sending you on your way.
This eliminates the need for multiple appointments, which saves time. They’re also not the most expensive type, saving you money.
Removable Veneers
Adults smile an average of 20 times a day, while children smile 400 times. Do you only care about how your teeth look when others look at them? Are you not a candidate for permanent porcelain? Consider a removable veneer.
They’re made from a strong composite resin. The veneer gets attached to your teeth with metal posts that fit into the grooves of your mouth.
The dentist will take an impression of your mouth and send it to the lab. They’ll soon return with a custom-made veneer.
You’ll have to remember to remove them before eating or brushing your teeth. You’ll activate them with hot water when you want to put them back in again.
Removable veneers aren’t the most durable or natural-looking option. They can also harm your gums over time and are prone to plaque buildup without careful oral care.
How Can I Get the Right Types of Veneers?
What types of veneers will give you the smile of your dreams? Do you want a strong option such as porcelain? Do you need one that can work with your extensive previous dental work? Do you need it done quickly in one appointment? Do you want to be able to remove it when you eat and brush your teeth?
SkyRidge Dental offers comprehensive dental care in a welcoming environment. We’re excited to welcome you into the office, so request an appointment today.
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