Dental Veneers: Benefits, Procedure, Costs, and Results

Are you unhappy with the appearance of your smile? If so, dental veneers may be the perfect and cost-effective cosmetic solution for you. Dental Veneers are among the most beautiful, natural-looking smile enhancement options available, and our team at Big Smile Dental can help you achieve the smile others would be jealous to have.

Overview of Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are perfect for anyone self-conscious about their smile. Many adults turn to dental veneers to achieve a healthy, attractive smile worthy of Hollywood. Dental veneers are applied directly to the front of the teeth, covering up stains, cracks, gaps, and much more revealing a smile that’s nothing short of a masterpiece. If you’re hesitant about smiling or laughing because you’re self-conscious about how your teeth look, it might be time to consider dental veneers so you can start smiling and laughing with confidence again! 

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are made of thin layers of durable material that are permanently bonded to a tooth. They resemble tooth enamel in color and feel, creating a beautiful, fully functioning smile. Dental veneers cover unsightly teeth and are so thin that the preparation for this painless cosmetic procedure requires minimal tooth alteration. 

These shell-like covers attach to existing teeth and form into the desired tooth shape and color. Recent advancements made in cosmetic dentistry have caused veneers to possess the same quality as real teeth, making smiles appear more natural than cosmetic dentistry in the past.

Individuals can get a dental veneer for just one tooth or on multiple teeth. Depending on your requirements, you can also get partial veneers (which don’t cover the entire tooth) or full veneers (which cover the entire front tooth).

What Are the Benefits of Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are a painless and effective restorative option that can boost a person’s self-confidence and correct a range of dental problems. Besides being a convenient and natural-looking option, the benefits of dental veneers include the following:

Dental veneers instantly enhance the appearance of your smile

Veneers can remove stains from coffee, red wine, and others while whitening a smile. They can also fix minor gaps between teeth, ensuring that your teeth are perfectly spaced. Dental veneers are also able to change the height and thickness of the teeth, preserving uniformity and improving the overall appearance of your smile.

Dental veneers create a brighter, whiter smile

Dental veneers quickly and effectively provide a brighter, whiter smile. They can be glazed in various shades, so if you’re having just a couple of veneers bonded onto your smile, they can match the color of your natural teeth.

Dental veneers are stain-resistant (especially porcelain)

Porcelain veneers are superior to resin veneers in terms of stain resistance. They are also non-porous, making them more resistant to cavities than natural tooth enamel. However, it’s still important to brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily to maintain good oral health. Learn more about the strength and stain-resistant nature of porcelain veneers in our Blog: What Foods You Can & Can’t Eat With Veneers.

Dental veneers require minimal tooth reduction and less time in the dentist’s chair

While dental bridges and crowns require more enamel to be removed to fit over a tooth or many teeth, dental veneers are bonded to the tooth, requiring less enamel to be removed. Porcelain is extremely durable and protects your natural teeth from damage.

Dental veneers are a great option for fixing gummy smiles

In addition to the other advantages, this permanent and durable treatment option is excellent for patients who want to reduce the appearance of a “gummy smile”.

Who are Dental Veneers for?

You may be wondering if dental veneers are right for you. While a full exam and discussion with one of our experienced dentists will be necessary to determine the best dental reconstruction option for you, dental veneers are a great option for most people. 

You may be a good candidate for dental veneers if you are an adult and:

• You want to enhance your smile
• You have slightly chipped teeth
• You have stained teeth from coffee, wine, or other drinks and foods
• Your teeth are discolored due to medications, health conditions, trauma, or other
• You think your smile shows too much of your gums 
• Your teeth are misshapen
• You have cracks in your teeth that cause pain and sensitivity
• You think your teeth are too small or pointy
• You have gaps between your teeth
• You don’t have extensive gum disease
• You don’t have a lot of dental cavities

How Long Do Dental Veneers Last?

When properly cared for, dental veneers can last an incredibly long time. While you can eat nearly anything, you should take reasonable precautions as dental veneers are not indestructible. Porcelain is a glass that can shatter when subjected to high pressure. Once dental veneers are placed, they are not removable and will remain in your mouth. Most veneers last 10 to 15 years with proper care, including regular dentist visits, brushing, and flossing.

What Is the Difference Between Dental Veneers, Crowns, and Implants?

Dental crowns vs veneers vs dental implants – what’s the difference? How do you choose which one’s right for your dental reconstruction? While the decision is ultimately made between you and the dentist, a good understanding of the difference and considering various factors is helpful and we are here to provide you with as much information as possible.

As often as possible most restorative and cosmetic dentists aim to preserve as much of the natural tooth’s structure as possible without shaving it down, crowning it, or having to extract it. In addition to the desired cosmetic outcome of your smile, the degree of decay, trauma, or presence of cracked enamel and fillings will also determine which restorative option is best for you.

Dental veneers, crowns, and implants are all cosmetic reconstructive dental solutions, however, they can differ in their functionality and purposes. For example,

• Dental Veneers cover the front surface of teeth to improve appearance. They are an excellent way to repair minimally chipped teeth and front teeth that are stained, discolored, or crooked. They work well to stabilize teeth with cracked tooth syndrome.
• Dental Crowns are placed over the entire surface of a tooth for protection as well as cosmetic enhancement. Dental crowns are often used for the back chewing teeth (molars) because of their durability. They are also frequently used if a tooth is so significantly broken that it can’t be fixed with dental bonding or a veneer.
• Dental Implants consist of medical-grade titanium posts that serve as a replacement root that attaches directly and securely to the jaw bone. A crown is placed on top to look, feel, and function just like a natural tooth. Dental implants are permanent replacement teeth options that enhance your smile and help preserve the health and structure of the jawbones.

As you can tell, dental crowns, veneers, and implants are all extremely effective cosmetic dentistry procedures that improve the look and function of your teeth. Our dentists are extremely knowledgeable and experienced in the use of all these methods and will patiently hear your concerns, goals, and desired outcomes for your smile.

What Are the Different Types of Dental Veneers?

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are ultra-thin shells of ceramic material bonded to the front of teeth. Known for their durability and natural appearance, they are resistant to staining and closely mimic the light-reflecting properties of natural teeth. They usually last for a decade or more and are less likely to chip or break compared to their composite counterparts.

Composite Resin Veneers

Composed of tooth-colored filling material, composite resin veneers are often directly applied to the teeth in a single appointment. They can be repaired quickly and are less expensive than porcelain. However, they don’t last as long and are more susceptible to staining.

No-Prep Veneers

These are ultra-thin veneers that require little to no removal of the tooth enamel. They’re fast, minimally invasive, and can be reversible, making them a popular choice for those hesitant about permanent alterations to their teeth.

Which Type of Dental Veneer Is Best?

The best type of veneer largely depends on your unique needs, budget, goals, and desired results. Porcelain veneers offer longevity and a natural appearance, while composite veneers are more affordable and offer a quick cosmetic fix. On the other hand, no-prep veneers are ideal for those seeking minimal tooth alteration.

How Are Dental Veneers Put on Teeth?

Veneers are completed over a couple of appointments to obtain the desired results. Big Smile Dental has a multi-step process that ensures your dental veneers fit properly and comfortably, perform optimally, and create the smile you’ve always wanted.

The process typically involves:

1. Initial Consultation: The first step is a cosmetic consultation with our dental professional, who will examine your teeth to ensure you are suitable for veneers. This involves creating bite impressions and X-rays to determine how the teeth fit together. You will also undergo a thorough dental examination to ensure no tooth decay or gum disease are present.
2. Veneer Preparation and Impression Making: The veneers will be designed to suit your facial shape, coloring, style, and personality. While you wear temporary veneers, a skilled ceramist at the lab will take that design (mold) and craft the veneers from high-quality materials.
3. Tooth preparation: Once the dental veneers are complete, the dentist will prepare the teeth for cosmetic bonding, and some tooth surfaces may need to be reshaped in order to accommodate the veneer.
4. Bonding: Once ready, the veneer is permanently cemented to the tooth using a special adhesive, immediately revitalizing your smile.
5. Adjustments: Any necessary changes are made for a perfect fit and appearance.

How to Prepare for Your Appointment

Before your veneer appointment, you will meet with our dentist to discuss your desired outcome and the details of the procedure. Avoid any food or habits that might stain or damage your teeth, and ensure you maintain good oral hygiene before the procedure.

How Much Do Veneers Cost?

Big Smile Dental strives to offer the most affordable dental veneers Chicago residents can find. We will contact your dental insurance provider on your behalf, freeing you to focus on selecting your best smile.

In general, porcelain veneers tend to be more expensive, costing typically from $900 to $2,500 per tooth, while the cost of composite veneers can range from $250 to $1,500. No-prep veneers can vary widely in price due to their emerging popularity and unique application. However, insurance might cover some of your costs if veneers are deemed medically necessary.

How to Take Care of Your Veneers After They’re Placed

To ensure the longevity of your veneers:

• Maintain good oral hygiene.
• Avoid biting hard objects or foods.
• Use non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste.
• Consider wearing a night guard if you grind your teeth.
• Regularly visit your dentist for check-ups.

If you’re interested in more information about dental veneers or other dental restorative options, call Big Smile Dental today! Our team is happy to schedule a consultation at a time that works with your schedule. Your new smile is waiting for you!