While veneers are a popular, celebrity-preferred cosmetic dental solution, we often get asked, what are veneers? Veneers are thin shells, typically made of porcelain or composite resin, that are custom-designed to cover the front surface of a tooth. They are used for cosmetic purposes to improve the appearance of teeth by addressing issues such as discoloration, minor misalignment, irregular shapes, or gaps between teeth. Veneers can be made from resin-composite, lumineers, or porcelain materials, and cemented to your teeth. Dr.Dani is an expert at constructing beautiful veneers from any of these materials, but he is considered a true artist for his work with porcelain veneers.
What’s the difference between materials used for veneers?
Porcelain veneers – A strong, tooth-colored material that looks and feels like natural teeth. Enamel removal (an irreversible procedure) is required. Porcelain veneers are stain-resistant and need to be fabricated in a professional dental lab, requiring multiple appointments for the patient.
Composite resin – These veneers are cheaper than porcelain, and the shade is customized to match your natural teeth. Veneers are crafted during the same appointment, making composite resin veneers a quicker, cheaper choice.
Lumineers – Lumineers are uber-thin veneers digitally crafted and bonded directly on the front surface of the teeth without any need for preparation (enamel removal). They are considered a no-prep veneer.
A QUICK SOLUTION FOR A SMILE MAKEOVER
There are different types of veneers based on the material used, which in turn affects the amount of tooth preparation needed before bonding. Both porcelain and composite-resin veneers require the removal of a small amount of tooth enamel from the front surface of the tooth, about 0.5 mm in depth. While composite veneers can be placed and cemented immediately in the same appointment, porcelain veneers need to be designed and manufactured in a dental lab, which takes time. This means that your treatment will be completed on your next appointment.
Patients who are anxious about dental treatments, or have very thin tooth enamel can still improve their smiles using no-prep porcelain veneers. There’s no drilling, no shots, no pain, and no anesthetic used. Your cosmetic dentist will simply take impressions of your teeth and send them to the lab where your custom veneers will be made. When they’re ready, the veneers will be bonded directly on the tooth or teeth, and you can return to your normal routine immediately after the procedure.
Call (310) 910-9950 today or schedule your appointment online.