Are you considering veneers to improve your smile? This cosmetic treatment can resolve a wide range of imperfections to deliver a stunning yet natural appearance. However, it’s not always clear which type is right for you.
Here is what you need to know about choosing the best veneers for your unique smile!
Are Veneers Right for You?
The first point to consider is whether dental veneers are right for your smile. There are many different cosmetic dentistry treatments available in addition to veneers. A consultation with your dentist is the best way to determine which treatment suits your needs.
Veneers are highly versatile. They provide an effective solution for chips and cracks, oddly shaped or sized teeth, permanent stains, and many other cosmetic concerns.
However, severely damaged teeth may require treatments such as dental crowns to restore their structure. If the issue is purely cosmetic, veneers will likely be a great choice.
The Different Types of Veneers
Veneers come in various types, each with their own advantages. All veneers accomplish roughly the same goal: covering the front of your teeth with a thin, bright, flawless material to provide an immaculate smile. However, they do so in different ways.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are what many people are referring to when they mention veneers. This traditional dental treatment offers a stunning custom solution for your smile. Your dentist will remove a thin layer of enamel from the front face of your teeth. Then, they take impressions that a dental lab uses to create perfectly matching veneers.
The veneers are then attached to your teeth using dental cement for a strong and lasting hold. Porcelain is ideal for dental restorations and tooth replacement, which is why it’s used in veneers, crowns, and bridges.
The material is slightly translucent, just like enamel. This provides the most natural look possible.
Composite Veneers
Composite veneers are a recent innovation that seeks to replicate the results of porcelain veneers. The front faces of your teeth are etched to provide better adhesion and a composite resin is applied. This resin is carefully matched to the natural shade of your smile and quickly cures to create a hard and uniform surface.
Though not as natural-looking as porcelain, composite veneers are fast and inexpensive. While they may have reduced longevity compared to other types of veneers, this isn’t necessarily an issue when reapplication is quick and easy.
Instant Veneers
Today, some veneers allow for instant application, bypassing the need to wait for results from a dental lab. These veneers rely on a variety of different materials. They are often thin enough that your natural tooth material doesn’t have to be removed.
While very thin, these types of veneers still add additional depth to the front face of the teeth. This may be noticeable in some cases. There are also limits to what they can achieve when dealing with oddly shaped or sized teeth.
Removable Veneers
Removable veneers are significantly different from other types. They aren’t permanently attached but are instead created as an appliance that can be removed as needed. They work similarly to dentures.
While they may not appear as realistic as other types, this can be a convenient and affordable option.
Which Type of Veneers Should You Choose?
Each type has certain benefits that could make it right for a given patient. Your dentist can accurately evaluate your particular smile to determine the best veneer type for you, but there are some general factors you can keep in mind as you make your decision as well.
Longevity and durability are important factors to consider. Porcelain holds up better than other materials. Composite resin is strong but does wear down eventually. Instant and removable veneers can be more fragile, though also more affordable.
Cost is another area to look at carefully. Porcelain veneers typically carry a higher cost than other options. However, the durability, customization, natural appearance, and confidence that come with it often make them well worth the investment. If you’re not ready for the upfront investment, instant and removable options can get you started.
When it comes to appearance, porcelain is typically the most natural-looking. The unique translucency and shade make it a perfect substitute for enamel. However, other options can provide similar results in terms of shape and shade.
Finding the Best Solution for Your Smile
Are you looking for the best way to improve your smile? Turn to Dr. Brett Langston at Dental Implant and Aesthetic Specialists. Our skilled team offers a wide range of cosmetic treatments, including porcelain veneers, all customized to fit your personal needs. Book your consultation today to get started!