Veneers 101: Types, Pros, Cons and Procedure Time.

Feb 6

Veneers have become a popular cosmetic option for anyone looking to achieve a dazzling Hollywood smile. There are a few reasons why someone may be a candidate for veneers – perhaps you are suffering from tooth damage, or simply want a “perfect smile”, whatever the case, veneers are an excellent option for achieving long lasting confidence. What many people may not realize is that there are quite a few options when it comes to veneers – let’s take a look!

What Are Veneers?

Veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite resin material that are bonded to the front of teeth to improve their appearance. They are an excellent option for people who have gaps between their teeth, discoloration, or misshapen teeth and are looking for a more cosmetic solution. There are three main types of veneers: porcelain veneers, composite veneers, and temporary veneers.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are a type of veneer that is made of thin sheets of porcelain material. They are custom-made to match the color and shape of your teeth and are then bonded to the front of your teeth. Porcelain veneers are very durable and can last up to 20 years with proper care. They are also stain-resistant, making them a great option for people who enjoy drinking coffee, tea, or red wine.

Benefits of Porcelain Veneers:

Natural-looking appearance
Stains resistant
Long-lasting
Customizable

Cons of Porcelain Veneers:

More invasive procedure
Require a portion of your natural tooth to be removed
More expensive than composite veneers
May not be a good option for people with severe decay or gum disease

Procedure Time For Porcelain Veneers:

The procedure to get porcelain veneers typically takes two appointments. During the first appointment, Dr. Lowry will remove a portion of your natural tooth to make room for the veneer. Then, she will take an impression of your tooth and send it to a local dental lab to create the custom veneer. During the second appointment, the Dr. Lowry will bond the veneer to your tooth. The entire process typically takes 2-3 weeks.

Composite Veneers

Composite veneers are a type of veneer that is made of a composite resin material. They are bonded to the front of your teeth and can be sculpted to match the shape and color of your teeth. Composite veneers are a great option for people who want to improve their smile quickly and are not interested in a more invasive procedure.

Benefits of Composite Veneers:

Quick and non-invasive procedure
More affordable than porcelain veneers
Customizable
Can be repaired or adjusted if needed

Cons of Composite Veneers:

Not as durable as porcelain veneers
More susceptible to staining
May not be a good option for people with severe decay or gum disease

Procedure Time of Composite Veneers:

The procedure to get composite veneers typically takes one appointment. During the appointment, Dr. Lowry will prepare your teeth by removing any rough spots or stains. Then, she will apply the composite resin to your teeth and sculpt it to match the shape and color of your teeth. The entire process typically takes 1-2 hours.

Temporary Veneers:

Temporary veneers are a type of veneer that is made of a temporary material, such as plastic. They are a great option for people who want to try out veneers before committing to a more permanent solution. Temporary veneers can be removed and replaced if needed.

Benefits of Temporary Veneers:

Non-invasive procedure
Affordable
Can be removed if needed
Can be a good option for people with severe decay or gum disease

Cons of Temporary Veneers:

Not as durable as porcelain or composite veneers
May not last as long
May not match the color and shape of your teeth as well as permanent veneers

Procedure Time of Temporary Veneers:

The procedure to get temporary veneers typically takes one appointment.

Veneers In St. Petersburg Florida

If you are considering veneers, we encourage you to contact Smile St. Pete Dentistry! Dr. Lowry is an expert in the field of cosmetic dentistry and prioritizes continuing education to ensure the best results for each and every patient. We are here to help you feel your best!