Maintain good oral hygiene
Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush twice a day with non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste, and floss daily
Veneers
If you’re ready for a beautiful way to strengthen your smile, dental veneers may be the perfect solution. Explore what’s possible with veneers.
What are veneers?
Veneers are thin coverings that are placed over the front part of your tooth that look like natural teeth. Veneers can be used to correct a wide range of dental issues, including stained, chipped, crooked or damaged teeth. They can even help conceal uneven spaces between teeth. If you want to improve your smile, dental veneers are a simple option.
When to get dental veneers
There are many pros of veneers that can address a myriad of dental concerns. Not only do they enhance the look of your smile, but they also fortify it too. Veneers are a wonderful solution to fix the following dental concerns:
Stained teeth
Your teeth can become stained from things like getting a root canal, taking medication or other drugs, excessive use of fluoride or from having large fillings
Bruxism
Bruxism happens when your teeth become worn down if you clench them too hard or if you grind your teeth while you sleep
Chipped or broken teeth
Veneers are a great solution to cover chipped teeth
Malocclusion (Misaligned, uneven, or irregularly shaped teeth)
Malocclusion is when your teeth are out of alignment, shape or positioning
Gap teeth
If you have gaps between your teeth, veneers help to fill in your smile and give you more confidence
Which veneers are best for me?
When deciding on the best type of veneers, you should consider several key factors. Reflect on the overall cost, as well as how natural and durable the veneers will look. Additionally, you should take into account the amount of enamel removal required and the ease of future repairs. By carefully weighing these factors, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your aesthetic goals and personal needs. Overall, veneers are a solution that enhances both the strength and look of your smile. There are several types of veneers, each with its own benefits:
Porcelain veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin shells made from high quality ceramic. They’re strong, durable, and resistant to staining—making them a popular choice. Your Aspen Dental care team will carefully create them to match the natural color and shape of your existing teeth.
Composite resin veneers
These veneers are made from a tooth-colored resin material. A benefit to composite resin veneers is that your dentist can sculpt, apply and polish them—all in just one appointment. Composite resin veneers are a bit more economical, although they don’t last as long as porcelain.
Lumineers
Lumineers are a specific brand of ultra-thin porcelain veneers. They don’t require any enamel removal and are a great option if you’re looking for non-invasive treatment.
Snap-on veneers
Snap-on veneers, also known as pop on veneers, are a more modern selection. They are custom-made to fit over your existing teeth and can be removed as needed. Snap-on veneers are more affordable than permanent veneers, but they don’t last quite as long.
Learn more about snap-on veneers >
Veneers vs crowns
Both veneers and crowns are excellent solutions to enhance the look and strength of your teeth. The key difference is that veneers cover the front of your tooth while crowns encase your whole tooth. Discover your options by clicking the button below.
Dental veneers procedure
The procedure for applying veneers has several steps. Although unique care varies per patient, here’s a general idea of what to expect:
Consultation & planning
First, you’ll have a consultation with your dentist. This visit includes an initial exam, a discussion around your desired outcome, as well as treatment options. Your dentist may also take X-rays and make impressions of your smile.
Preparation
Before placing your dental veneers, your dentist will prepare your teeth by removing a bit of enamel. Don’t worry, they can use a local anesthetic to minimize any discomfort.
For porcelain veneers—your dentist will take impressions of your teeth and send them to a lab where the veneers are crafted. Then, you’ll be invited back into the office in a few weeks to place them. In the meantime, your dentist will likely apply temporary veneers to keep your smile strong.
For composite resin veneers, your dentist will reshape and then apply the composite resin to your teeth. The material is then sculpted and cured by your dentist in a single visit.
Placement
Now, it’s time for placement. Your dentist will carefully apply the veneer, ensuring that the fit, shape and color perfectly match the rest of your smile. Afterward, they’ll clean, polish, etch and cure your veneers to ensure a proper bonding process.
Evaluation
After placing the veneer, your dentist will remove any excess material, assess the fit and bite, and make any final adjustments. They may ask you to return for a follow-up visit in a few weeks to monitor how your smile is adapting to the veneers.
How dental veneers work
1. Covers imperfect tooth (chips, cracks, discoloration, gaps)
2. Veneers bonded over tooth surface
3. Improved, renovated smile
Teeth with veneers: Aftercare
It’s essential to take proper care of your veneers to keep them looking and functioning at their best. Here are a few good pointers to help you with aftercare for your new veneers:
Avoid biting too hard
Avoid biting down too hard or chewing on hard foods to avoid chipping
Use a mouth guard
Use a mouth guard for sports or a night guard if you grind your teeth
Attend dental checkups
Attend regular dental checkups for professional cleanings and veneer assessment
Avoid nail-biting
Avoid nail-biting or opening packages with your teeth
Use alcohol-free mouthwash
Choose alcohol-free mouthwash to preserve the bonding material
Report discomfort to your dentist
Report any chips, cracks, or discomfort to your dentist immediately
Veneers cost
The cost of veneers on an average is $1,043¹ per tooth. This depends on things like the type of veneer (porcelain or composite resin), the complexity of the procedure, and the expertise and location of your dentist.
¹Price displayed is the average price paid by patients in the Aspen Dental network for selected services.
Join today and save on veneers
No insurance for veneers? No worries. Get the dental care savings you need for a price you’ll love. Sign up today for only $49 per year.
²The Aspen Dental Savings Plan is NOT insurance. Please see plan terms and conditions for details.
Veneers FAQs
How do veneers work?
Veneers work by covering visible dental imperfections or discoloration with a thin layer of porcelain or composite resin. They are custom-made to fit your teeth and instantly enhance your smile's appearance and strength. This smile solution remedies dental issues like chips, cracks, gaps or misshapen teeth.
How much do veneers cost?
The cost of veneers on an average is $1,043¹ based on several factors. For the most accurate veneers cost, contact your local Aspen Dental care team. They will assess your specific situation and give you a customized estimate for the procedure.
¹Price displayed is the average price paid by patients in the Aspen Dental network for selected services.
How much do veneers cost with insurance?
The cost of veneers with insurance varies, depending on things like your dental insurance plan, the type of veneers you’re getting as well as your dentist's location. However, many insurance providers consider veneers a cosmetic procedure and may not cover the costs. It’s important to consult with your dentist for specific policy details and potential out-of-pocket expenses for getting veneers.
How long do veneers last?
The lifespan of veneers can vary depending on the type and how well you care for them. Porcelain veneers typically last between 10 to 15 years, while composite veneers usually last between 5 to 7 years. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, both types can last even longer.
Do veneers damage your teeth?
Veneers themselves do not damage your teeth. However, a small amount of enamel must be removed from the front surface of your teeth to create space for the veneers. This process is generally minimal and safe, but it is irreversible. Proper placement and care by a dental professional ensure that veneers do not harm your teeth.
Are veneers permanent?
Veneers are a long-lasting dental solution, but they are not permanent. Over time, they may need to be replaced due to wear and tear. Additionally, since enamel is removed during the preparation process, the procedure is irreversible. With good care, porcelain veneers can last up to 15 years, while composite veneers can last up to 7 years.
Which teeth typically get veneers?
Veneers are most commonly applied to the upper front teeth, as these are the most visible when you smile and talk. They can be used on lower teeth as well, especially if there are cosmetic concerns that need to be addressed. Veneers can effectively enhance the appearance of teeth that are discolored, chipped, misaligned, or have gaps between them.
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