Veneers
Think of veneers as a "face lift" for the teeth. They are made of thin shells of tooth-colored material that cover the front surface of teeth to improve aesthetic of a person's smile or to protect the tooth's enamel from damage.
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They are custom-made and bonded to the teeth and changing the color, shape, size, length, or to close gaps between teeth.
Porcelain Veneers or Composite Veneers
There are two types of materials used for veneers. Porcelain veneers are the most commonly used veneer and by far the most durable. Their translucency means they bear a closer resemblance to natural teeth. They have a high resistance to staining and can last much longer than other veneer materials, typically between 10-20 years.
Composite veneers generally take 2 or fewer visits and are less invasive because there is no need to drill the teeth into a smaller shape. While significantly less expensive, the aesthetic appearance isn't quite as convincing, nor do they last as long. The typical life span of composite veneers is up to 5 years. They can be a very useful and inexpensive alternative, but the material may start to chip away and stain much sooner than porcelain veneers.
Are Veneers a Good Option for You?
It's no secret that veneers can drastically change a person's smile, but there are many factors to consider before overhauling the appearance of a smile. Veneers work best for people who:
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would like to whiten stained/discolored teeth, but the discoloration is too severe for whitening treatments
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would like to fix minor imperfections. Veneers can be used to cover cracks, chips, and misshapen teeth
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would like to fix several cosmetic issues at once - cracks, stains, gaps over more than one tooth
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have healthy teeth and gums. If you struggle with maintaining healthy teeth and gums, improving oral hygiene prior to veneer placement may be necessary
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have moderately straight teeth. Since a veneer is only covering the surface of the tooth, very crooked teeth may not attach properly
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do not suffer from teeth grinding. People with bruxism (teeth grinding) could easily damage the veneers.
Veneers are a helpful dental tool that can restore your confidence in your smile. If you've ever wanted to give your smile a makeover, let us know! We would be happy to discuss your options with you and find out if you're a good candidate for veneers. Lone Peak Dental's team of dedicated dental professionals are enthusiastic and committed to helping our patients meet their smile goals.