Dental veneers can serve as an excellent cosmetic solution for teeth that are badly worn, slightly misaligned, stained, chipped, crooked or damaged. Also known as dental laminates, veneers are custom-designed water-thin shells that are bonded to the front surface of teeth to enhance the appearance of your smile.
The two materials that are most commonly used in the manufacture of veneers are porcelain and composite resin. Porcelain veneers offer many great advantages over other types of cosmetic dental bonding. First of all they are translucent which creates a more natural-looking appearance, providing patients with a brighter smile. Another significant advantage of porcelain veneers is stain resistance, which makes this treatment a better alternative to composite veneers. However, brushing after drinking soda, tea, coffee or red wine is highly advisable.
Porcelain veneers are expected to last 10 to 15 years while composite veneers will typically last a year or two. To make your veneers last longer, make sure you follow good oral hygiene habits and see your dentist for regular dental cleanings and examinations. The cost of this procedure can range from $700 to $2,500 per tooth. Having your teeth improved with dental veneers usually takes two or three comprehensive dental visits. Placement of dental veneers requires the artistry, precision, and skill of an experienced cosmetic dentist.
