Dental Veneers
What makes a smile beautiful? That’s a complex question, but some qualities of a lovely smile are immediately identifiable: good tooth color, shape and alignment are a few of the most important ones. If your teeth could use improvement in any of these categories, porcelain veneers could be just what you’re looking for.
You may already know that a veneer is a thin covering over another surface. In dentistry, a veneer is a wafer-thin layer of super-strong porcelain that convincingly substitutes for natural tooth enamel. When bonded to your teeth, veneers can create a natural-looking, beautiful new surface. That’s because dental porcelain, like natural tooth enamel, is translucent and tough. But it doesn’t stain like tooth enamel does.
Recent years have brought remarkable advances in dental porcelain technology. These days, veneers can be made so thin that they can sometimes be bonded directly onto your existing tooth surface. In other cases, a very thin layer of tooth enamel — as thin as the veneer itself — needs to be removed to fit the new porcelain surface and make it look as lifelike as possible. Either way, the results are sure to make you smile.
Versatility of Porcelain Veneers
Veneers can be used to improve any of the following characteristics of your teeth:
- Color — Teeth can become stained by the foods and drinks we like, from smoking, and even normal aging. Veneers are available in numerous shades, from the most natural to the brightest Hollywood white.
- Size & Shape — Teeth can become worn down from grinding habits, or may not have the shape or size you want to begin with. For example, some people consider rounder teeth more feminine and squarer teeth more masculine. Veneers can be shaped and sized in whichever way is most flattering to your face.
- Alignment & Spacing — Veneers can be used to close small gaps between teeth or make slight corrections in alignment while improving tooth color and shape.
Located right off Exit 38 off I 91 in Windsor, Ct, New England Dental Center is committed to being your local, complete cosmetic dental solution. Established as a multispecialty group practice in 1980, we provide the dental care you need and deserve in one convenient location. We want to help you begin your journey to a healthy and happy smile.
Limitations of Porcelain Veneers
There are some situations in which veneers would be inappropriate. For example, if you have significantly misaligned teeth or a large gap, orthodontics might be a more appropriate solution than veneers. And if you have lost a lot of tooth structure from decay or trauma (or a particularly severe grinding habit), it might be better to restore your teeth with porcelain crowns that cover the entire tooth.
Creating a New Smile with Porcelain Veneers
The first step in creating a new smile with porcelain veneers is to communicate exactly what you don’t like about your smile as it is now. It’s a great idea to bring in pictures of smiles you do like, as a starting point for discussion. It’s possible to see how veneers would look on your teeth in one of several ways. A model of your teeth can be created over which wax “veneers” can be placed; sometimes acrylic (plastic) or tooth-colored filling material can be placed directly onto your teeth to demonstrate the effect veneers would have on them.
Once the plan has been agreed upon, your teeth will be prepared by removing a small amount of enamel, if this step is necessary. Molds of your teeth will be taken and used by a skilled dental laboratory to create your veneers, and you will receive a temporary set of veneers to wear during the few weeks it will take to create your permanent veneers. When the veneers come back from the lab, they will be cemented onto your teeth. Need to straighten your teeth? Invisalign can be a cost efficient option.
Caring for Your Veneers
Just like the teeth nature gave you, teeth restored with veneers need gentle brushing and flossing every day. This will remove dental plaque and ensure good gum tissue health around the veneers. Regular checkups at the dental office will remain as important as always to your oral and general health. And keep in mind that as tough as veneers are, they may not be able to withstand forces that come from using your teeth as tools (to open packages, for example) or biting into very hard foods like candy apples — which isn’t good for your natural teeth, either! And if you grind or clench your teeth at night, you might be advised to get a custom-made nightguard to protect your veneers — and your investment.
Serving Hartford County, CT
Located in Windsor, CT, our professional and personable dental staff is available to serve the residents and visitors of Hartford County, including Bloomfield, Enfield, and Windsor Locks.
CALL NOW (860) 688-3663
TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT WITH US
Frequently Asked Questions
How many teeth is a full set of veneers?
A full set of veneers typically includes the front 6 to 10 teeth on the top, bottom, or both. The exact number depends on the patient’s smile, facial structure, and cosmetic goals.
How many teeth can be covered with veneers?
Veneers are highly customizable and can be placed on as many or as few teeth as needed. They are most commonly applied to the visible front teeth to enhance the appearance of the smile.
Is there a downside to veneers?
Veneers require the removal of a small amount of enamel, making the process irreversible. They can also be more expensive than other cosmetic dental treatments.
How much is a full top set of veneers?
The cost of a full top set of veneers generally ranges from $5,000 to $15,000. Pricing varies based on the material used, the dentist’s experience, and the complexity of the case.
Are veneers worth the cost?
Many patients find veneers worth the investment because they can dramatically improve the appearance of their smile. With proper care, veneers are durable and can provide long-lasting cosmetic and confidence benefits.
What happens to teeth under veneers?
Before placing veneers, a thin layer of enamel is removed from the surface of the teeth. This allows the veneers to fit naturally and securely over the prepared teeth.
Can you go back to normal teeth after veneers?
No, veneers are considered an irreversible treatment because enamel removal is permanent. Once placed, veneers or other restorative options are required to maintain tooth protection and appearance.
Are veneers painful?
Veneer placement usually involves minimal discomfort, as local anesthesia is often used during the procedure. Some temporary sensitivity may occur afterward but typically resolves quickly.
Can you get cavities with veneers?
Veneers themselves do not decay, but the natural teeth around and beneath them can still develop cavities. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to prevent decay in adjacent teeth.
How much tooth has to be removed for veneers?
Typically, about 0.5 millimeters of enamel is removed to prepare a tooth for a veneer. The exact amount depends on the type of veneer and the individual treatment plan.
