Porcelain Veneers in Santa Cruz

What are teeth veneers?

Veneers are thin shells, usually of ceramic or resin, which fit over the front of the teeth to improve their appearance cosmetically. They take a great deal of skill and an eye for aesthetics to place correctly for a pleasing appearance that enhances each individual’s smile. Veneers can conceal or correct a number of imperfections, including:

• Chips
• Cracks
• Gaps
• Discoloration
• Misalignment
• Worn teeth
• Pitted teeth
• Misshapen teeth

Different Types of Veneers

Various types of veneers are available depending on your budget, the desired results, and how long you want them to last.

• Composite veneers: Composite veneers are made of tooth-colored composite resin to cover mild cosmetic flaws. The composite material is the same as that used for dental bonding and can be color-matched to surrounding teeth.
• Porcelain veneers: Porcelain veneers are the most expensive and durable of all veneers. These restorations are custom-made to fit your teeth perfectly. Before placement, we remove some enamel from your teeth to roughen the surface and ensure the teeth look natural and not too thick after the porcelain veneers are attached.
• No-prep veneers: No-prep veneers are a less invasive option because less enamel needs to be removed than other veneers. However, the veneers are still custom-made to fit over your teeth.
• No-prep veneers aren’t right for everyone. Ask your dentist if you’re a candidate.
• Temporary veneers: These pop-on veneers are a more recent entry into the market. They cover your teeth’s imperfections and are removable. Temporary veneers are a short-term, removable solution, but they make it difficult to eat and speak clearly.

 

Veneer Procedure: What to Expect

• Dr. Gomez removes a small portion of enamel from the front of the teeth.
• She takes impressions of the teeth so a dental technician can use them to make custom veneers. (Unless you get composite veneers, which do not require impressions.)
• If necessary, we place temporary veneers while the custom veneers are fabricated.
• In a few weeks, when your veneers are ready, you return to our office.
• Gomez checks the fit, color, and shape of your veneers before bonding them permanently to your teeth.
• Any needed final adjustments are made.

You can return to your normal activities immediately after your veneers are placed.

 

Pros & Cons of Veneers

Weighing the pros and cons of porcelain veneers can help you decide whether they are right for you. Here are some points to consider:

Pros:

• Veneers can enhance your smile in several ways.
• They can blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
• Porcelain veneers do not stain like tooth enamel.
• No special care or maintenance is needed.
• Most veneers last 10-15 years with good oral hygiene.

 Cons:

• Part of your tooth enamel has to be removed to attach the veneers.
• Most veneers must be replaced when they fall off to protect the tooth.
• You may have some sensitivity to hot and cold foods for a while.
• Although it is rare, there is a chance a veneer could loosen or fall off.
• Most dental insurances do not cover veneers because they are cosmetic. 

Should You Get Veneers?

If you are interested in a minimally invasive way to correct teeth imperfections that can last for years, veneers are an excellent choice.

In particular, porcelain veneers are highly stain-resistant and can last 10-15 years. Without undergoing multiple procedures, they can correct various problems simultaneously, such as discolored, crooked, and chipped teeth.

However, once you get veneers, you must replace them when needed. If a veneer falls off, you have to replace it, or the tooth’s surface will be exposed to damage.

 

Veneers vs. Dental Bonding

• Bonding is less expensive than veneers but doesn’t last as long.
• Porcelain veneers last longer and are stronger than bonding.
• Bonding can be completed in a single appointment. Veneers usually take multiple visits.
• Veneers look more natural and have the sheen of natural teeth.
• We can often repair a bonded tooth, but a cracked veneer has to be replaced.
• Bonding is best for minor imperfections, while veneers can cover more significant issues.

 

Veneers vs. Regular Dental Crowns

Both veneers and crowns can be used to cover imperfections, but they have distinct differences.

• Veneers cover only the front portion of the tooth, while crowns cover and surround the entire visible portion of the tooth.
• Veneers are cosmetic. Crowns can be cosmetic but are primarily for strength and tooth protection.
• Crowns tend to last longer than veneers.

Dr. Gomez can help you weigh the pros and cons of porcelain veneers and other cosmetic dental options to find the best way to correct any minor imperfections and get a smile that reflects your inner beauty.