Veneers are a revolutionary treatment in cosmetic dentistry. While being an effective way of hiding dental defects, they’re also considered as an integral part of an aesthetic dental makeover. The treatment involves attaching composite or porcelain covers onto your teeth to give the desired shape, color, and appearance to your teeth. Here are a few things you can expect when getting your veneers:

Porcelain vs. Composite Veneers
Veneers are customized according to what you’d like, and you can choose from composite or porcelain veneers. Porcelain ones are indirect veneers which are prepared in a lab before gluing them to your teeth. These are more stain-resistant and permanent. On the other hand, composite veneers are directly applied to your teeth and are thinner. This means they are temporary and needs replacement after five to seven years. Also, the dentist will have to remove more of your teeth’s surface to apply porcelain veneers.

The Process
The process will start with an initial visit where dentist will discuss your options and what to expect. The dentist will also order some x-rays. You can expect the dentist to remove about 0.5mm of the enamel of your tooth as an initial preparatory step. This is a mandatory step to make space for the veneer to fit in.

If you are getting temporary veneers, it’ll take just a single visit. For permanent veneers, the dentist will take an impression of your teeth to create a mold. The mold will be sent to the laboratory and the veneers will be prepared in a couple of weeks and you’ll be given temporary veneers to wear till then.

Next, you’ll be called in for a trial run with your new veneers. Once approved, veneers will be adjusted and applied to the tooth by using a cementing agent. To accelerate the adhesion process, UV light will be used. Your dentist will guide you about the care and follow-up visits.

The Cost
The cost depends on how extensive the treatment is and which type of veneers have you chosen. You can expect spending $250 per tooth while getting composite veneers which can last about 6 years. In the case of porcelain ones, you can expect them to be about $1000 per tooth which will last a decade or more.

Pain or No Pain?
Getting veneers is a painless process but some people might experience some discomfort. You will not feel anything during the treatment, and the initial gum sensitivity will subside soon afterward.

Talk with your local Alvin Dental Office dentist to see if veneers are a right fit for you!