Types of Veneers that You Must Consider for a Brighter Smile

Do you want a flawless smile but have discolored or chipped teeth, gaps in between your teeth, or any other teeth-related problem? Veneers applied by a dental veneers dentist in Palo Alto can improve your smile and confidence. Veneers can even out or reshape the teeth, fill in the unattractive gaps, and provide a gorgeous, pearly-white smile. But is this all that you need to know about veneers? 

Below we explore in detail the most common types of veneers, how they are applied, and their benefits and risks, if there are any. 

Different Types of Dental Veneers 

If you're less familiar with veneers, you might believe there is a universal approach to this dental treatment. However, there are various types of veneers in the market today. They serve different needs, require different procedures, and are made from different materials (which affects their durability and aesthetic features). So, without ado, here is a list of the types of veneers most cosmetic dentists in Palo Alto offer:

1. Porcelain veneers 

A porcelain veneer is a tough, thin ceramic shell that is applied to the front and sides of your teeth. Usually, it tends to provide a more natural tooth-like appearance. Getting porcelain veneers will require 2-3 appointments at the dental office. During the initial appointment, your dentist will create an imaging mock-up (impression) of your teeth, which they will then send to the lab for creation.

When the veneers are ready, your Palo Alto dentist can bond them to your teeth using a light-sensitive resin. You may receive temporary veneers before the actual ones (permanent) come back from the lab. While porcelain veneers are considered strong and more durable than other dental veneers, they come with some risks. This kind of cosmetic dentistry is irreversible as the enamel layer must be removed to place the veneers. Thus, once the treatment begins, there is no turning back. 

Also, some people struggle with tooth sensitivity after getting veneers, this sensitivity is experienced for a few days before fading away. 

2. Composite veneers

Composite veneers are made of resin, a contemporary material also used in tooth fillings. Composite veneers are far less expensive than porcelain veneers and have a much shorter treatment time. Usually, the procedure can be completed in a single appointment.  

Your Palo Alto dentist will roughen the surface of your preferred tooth and then apply a layer of the composite resin material to it. Additional layers of composite material may be required to create the intended beautiful look. 

That said, the material used for composite veneers has a shorter lifespan than porcelain. It usually chips when subjected to pressure. Therefore, it is advisable to replace them every 5-7 years. 

3. Lumineers

Lumineers are a brand of ultra-thin and transparent dental veneers. They mirror the color and shape of natural teeth. Lumineers are so thin (0.2mm) that they don't require tooth recontouring or reduction. 

The process of getting Lumineers installed usually entails two visits to the dentist. During your first visit, your dental veneers dentist in Palo Alto will take an impression of your teeth and will get Lumineers made at a lab. The second visit is often scheduled a few days later. Here, the dentist will permanently install your Lumineers after ensuring everything fits perfectly. 

That said, while the thin build of the Lumineers can be advantageous, there is also a drawback. If the Lumineer is not flawlessly blended into the gums, it can cause gum inflammation. Make sure your dentist is experienced in veneers to avoid such issues. 

4. Removable veneers/Non-permanent/Custom-made snap on 

Removable veneers are made from a resin material and can be removed as needed. Mostly, they are used before the placement of permanent veneers. 

Your dentist in Palo Alto, CA, will take an impression of your teeth, and you can choose the shade of teeth you would want to snap on. You will then have a beautiful smile that you can wear whenever you want.

Although removable veneers are inexpensive and look fairly good, they are more prone to plaque buildup. For that reason, at Cambridge Dental Studio, we do not recommend removable veneers as a long-term solution. 

Which Type of Dental Veneer is Best?

To know which type of dental veneer is right for you, you will want to consider a number of factors: 

• Your dentist's recommendations 
• Your expected cost
• The appearance of the veneers 
• Length of time the procedure takes
• Longevity of the veneers 

Proper Care for Veneers

You don't have to stop enjoying particular foods or beverages after your veneers are installed. However, resin-based veneers can discolor or stain with time. As such, we advise our patients with resin veneers to avoid regular intake of substances that can cause discoloration, such as tea, coffee, blueberries, and red wine, to keep them sparkly.

Your dental veneers dentist in Palo Alto may also advise against: 

• Biting hard objects and fingernails 
• Grinding your teeth (Bruxism)
• Opening items with your teeth
• Chewing very hard foods

Taking care of your dental veneers properly will ensure they remain in perfect condition and last longer.  

Are you Ready for a Better Smile?

Veneers are a massive investment that will improve your smile; therefore, be sure you are well informed about the available options before settling on any type. Consult your Palo Alto dentist today to find out if you're a perfect candidate for veneers. Our patients say the results are worth it!

Schedule an appointment with our top veneer dentists in Palo Alto at Cambridge Dental Studio.