Dental procedures can bring a lot of anxiety with them. And because there are so many options, it’s hard to remember which ones are for what purpose. Some are painful, some take hours, and some are expensive. Veneers are no different. They can be uncomfortable, take a long time, and be expensive. But knowing the difference between veneers can help decide when you need restoration.
Which Dental Veneers Are Best For You?
Veneers are an option your dentist might bring up when you want to restore your smile. Veneers offer your teeth a new color, shape, and overall look. Your dentist will place the veneer over your teeth and bond them using many different methods. Each bonding method depends on the type of veneers you’re getting. Each type of veneer has benefits, drawbacks, and a different timeline. The types of veneers are:
- Porcelain: Porcelain veneers are considered one of the “best” treatments. They’re also one of the most popular materials. Many patients choose porcelain over other types of veneers. Porcelain veneers are made from ceramic, are naturally tooth-colored, resist stains, and have a long lifespan. These veneers are a popular alternative to dental crowns. And your dentist has at least fifteen different color options to match the natural color of your teeth. However, they’re expensive. And to install them, your dentist has to remove some of the enamel on your teeth.
- Composite Resin Veneers: Composite veneers are similar to porcelain but are less expensive. The process for installing composite veneers is also less extensive. They’re chip-resistant, strong, smooth, easy to repair, and can last up to a decade if cared for correctly. However, they are easier to stain, less durable than porcelain, and cost over $700 to install per tooth.
- Palatal veneers/onlays: Palatal Veneers are also called lingual veneers and palatal onlays. Dentists use these veneers to restore the damage when your teeth have been eroded. Palatal veneers are perfect for your front teeth, are strong, and can improve your bite. These veneers can even protect your gums. However, installing palatal veneers is complicated, expensive, and often needs to be installed over multiple visits.
- Lumineers: Lumineers are specifically developed as an alternative to porcelain veneers. They’re thinner than porcelain, often lasting for more than a decade. While they’re long-lasting, they’re easier to chip. Some Lumineers have shorter lifespans than other veneers. Because they’re thin and not made of porcelain, they can be less expensive. Your teeth won’t need as much preparation for installation, and Lumineers are reversible. However, Lumineers can become detached, dark spots can be visible underneath them, and they can cost close to $2,000.
- Temporary veneers: Removable veneers snap over your teeth. They’re similar to dentures in this regard. Because they don’t have to be bonded to your teeth, removable veneers are less invasive and less expensive than almost any other option. Temporary veneers are an instant correction, can be removed easily, and protect your teeth while waiting for a permanent solution. However, they are fragile, easily stained, and chipped easily.
How Do You Know Which Veneers You Should Get?
At Aesthetic Dentistry, we can walk you through getting veneers. Calling to set up an appointment is the first step in restoring your smile. We will explain the positives and negatives of each type of veneer and help you make an informed decision.
