Picture of veneer. Porcelain Veneers: Transform Your Smile with Long-Lasting, Natural-Looking Results

15.10.197902.12.2021 by alexxlab

How do porcelain veneers work. What are the benefits of porcelain veneers. How long do porcelain veneers last. Are porcelain veneers right for you. What is the process of getting porcelain veneers. How much do porcelain veneers cost. How to care for porcelain veneers.

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What Are Porcelain Veneers and How Do They Work?

Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. These wafer-thin, durable ceramic layers are bonded to the front of teeth to create a beautiful and attractive smile.

How exactly do porcelain veneers work? These ultra-thin coverings act as a new outer layer for your teeth, essentially replacing the natural enamel. Made from strong, enamel-mimicking materials, veneers become the perfect substitute for your tooth’s exterior, creating an attractive and radiant new surface.

The Composition of Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are typically about 0.5 millimeters thick, though some brands like Lumineers can be as thin as 0.3 millimeters. The porcelain used in veneers is a high-quality ceramic material that closely resembles natural tooth enamel in both appearance and strength.

Benefits of Choosing Porcelain Veneers for Your Smile Makeover

Porcelain veneers offer numerous advantages for those seeking to enhance their smile. Here are some key benefits:

Natural appearance: Porcelain closely mimics the light-reflecting properties of natural teeth
Stain-resistant: Highly resistant to coffee, tea, and even cigarette stains
Versatility: Can address multiple cosmetic issues simultaneously
Minimally invasive: Requires less tooth reduction compared to crowns
Customizable: Can be tailored to match your desired shade and shape
Durability: With proper care, can last 10-15 years or more

Why are porcelain veneers considered ideal for smile improvement? Their simplicity and versatility make them an increasingly popular choice among patients seeking cosmetic dental enhancements. When properly bonded, veneers are virtually undetectable and blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.

The Longevity of Porcelain Veneers: What to Expect

One of the most common questions patients ask is: “How long do porcelain veneers last?” With proper care and maintenance, porcelain veneers can help you maintain your dream smile for at least a decade, and often much longer.

Factors that influence the lifespan of porcelain veneers include:

Oral hygiene habits
Diet and lifestyle choices
Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)
Quality of the materials used
Skill of the dentist performing the procedure

To maximize the longevity of your veneers, it’s crucial to maintain good oral hygiene practices and follow your dentist’s care instructions. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings also play a vital role in preserving the health and appearance of your veneers.

Are You a Good Candidate for Porcelain Veneers?

While porcelain veneers can address a wide range of cosmetic dental issues, they’re not suitable for everyone. Ideal candidates for porcelain veneers typically have:

Good overall oral health
Sufficient healthy tooth enamel
Realistic expectations about the results
A commitment to maintaining good oral hygiene

Who should consider porcelain veneers? They can be an excellent solution for individuals with:

Discolored or stained teeth resistant to whitening
Chipped or worn teeth
Gaps between teeth
Misaligned or irregularly shaped teeth
Teeth that appear too small or large

It’s important to consult with a qualified cosmetic dentist to determine if porcelain veneers are the best option for your specific needs and goals.

The Process of Getting Porcelain Veneers: What to Expect

The journey to achieving your perfect smile with porcelain veneers typically involves several steps:

Initial consultation and treatment planning
Preparation of the teeth (minimal enamel removal)
Taking impressions or digital scans of your teeth
Fabrication of custom veneers in a dental laboratory
Temporary veneers placement (if necessary)
Fitting and bonding of the permanent veneers
Final adjustments and polishing

How long does the entire process take? While the exact timeline can vary, most patients can expect to complete their veneer treatment in two to three appointments over a few weeks.

The Importance of Communication with Your Dentist

Effective communication with your dentist is crucial for achieving the desired results. During the consultation phase, be sure to discuss your expectations and share photos of smile styles you admire. Many dentists now offer digital smile design technology, allowing you to preview your new smile before committing to the procedure.

The Cost of Porcelain Veneers: Investment in Your Smile

The cost of porcelain veneers can vary significantly depending on several factors, including:

Geographic location
Dentist’s expertise and reputation
Number of veneers needed
Quality of materials used
Complexity of the case

On average, porcelain veneers can range from $925 to $2,500 per tooth. While this may seem like a significant investment, many patients find the long-lasting results and boost in confidence well worth the cost.

How can you manage the cost of porcelain veneers? Many dental offices offer financing options or payment plans to help make the treatment more accessible. It’s also worth checking if your dental insurance covers any portion of the procedure, although cosmetic treatments are typically not covered.

Caring for Your Porcelain Veneers: Maintenance Tips

To ensure the longevity and appearance of your porcelain veneers, follow these care tips:

Maintain excellent oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing
Use a non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the veneer surface
Avoid biting on hard objects like ice, pens, or fingernails
Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth while sleeping
Attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings
Limit consumption of staining foods and beverages

How often should you have your veneers professionally cleaned? It’s recommended to visit your dentist every six months for a check-up and cleaning to maintain the health of your natural teeth and veneers.

Potential Challenges and Considerations with Porcelain Veneers

While porcelain veneers offer numerous benefits, it’s important to be aware of potential challenges:

Irreversibility: The process involves removing a small amount of enamel, which cannot be undone
Sensitivity: Some patients may experience temporary sensitivity to hot and cold
Potential for damage: While durable, veneers can chip or crack if subjected to excessive force
Cost: Veneers are generally more expensive than other cosmetic dental treatments
Replacement: Veneers may need to be replaced after 10-15 years

Is there a risk of your veneers falling off? While rare, veneers can become loose or detached if not properly bonded or if subjected to extreme forces. If this occurs, contact your dentist immediately for repair or replacement.

Addressing Common Concerns About Porcelain Veneers

Many patients wonder about the impact of veneers on their natural teeth. Rest assured that when performed by a skilled cosmetic dentist, the veneer procedure is safe and does not damage your teeth. The minimal amount of enamel removed is necessary to ensure a proper fit and natural appearance of the veneers.

Another common concern is whether veneers look fake. When designed and placed by an experienced professional, porcelain veneers should look completely natural. The key is to choose a shade that complements your skin tone and facial features, and to ensure the shape and size of the veneers are in proportion with your other teeth.

Alternatives to Porcelain Veneers: Exploring Your Options

While porcelain veneers are an excellent solution for many, they’re not the only option for improving your smile. Some alternatives include:

Composite veneers: Made from resin, these are less expensive but less durable than porcelain
Dental bonding: A more affordable option for minor cosmetic issues
Teeth whitening: For addressing discoloration without altering tooth structure
Orthodontic treatments: For correcting misalignment issues
Dental crowns: For more extensive tooth damage or decay

How do you choose between these options? The best choice depends on your specific dental needs, budget, and desired outcome. Consult with a cosmetic dentist to explore which treatment or combination of treatments will best achieve your smile goals.

Comparing Porcelain Veneers to Composite Veneers

When considering veneers, you may wonder about the differences between porcelain and composite options. Here’s a quick comparison:

Durability: Porcelain veneers typically last longer (10-15 years) compared to composite (5-7 years)
Appearance: Porcelain offers a more natural, translucent appearance
Stain resistance: Porcelain is more resistant to staining than composite
Cost: Composite veneers are generally less expensive than porcelain
Repair: Composite veneers can be more easily repaired if damaged

Ultimately, the choice between porcelain and composite veneers depends on your specific needs, budget, and long-term goals for your smile.

The Impact of Porcelain Veneers on Oral Health and Function

Beyond their cosmetic benefits, porcelain veneers can have positive impacts on your oral health and function:

Protection: Veneers can help protect worn or weakened enamel
Improved bite: Properly designed veneers can help correct minor bite issues
Confidence boost: A beautiful smile can lead to improved self-esteem and social interactions
Motivation for oral care: Many patients report taking better care of their teeth after getting veneers

Do porcelain veneers affect your ability to eat or speak? In most cases, veneers should not interfere with normal eating or speaking. There may be a brief adjustment period, but most patients quickly adapt to their new veneers.

The Psychological Benefits of a Transformed Smile

The impact of a smile makeover with porcelain veneers often extends beyond the physical. Many patients report significant improvements in their self-confidence and quality of life after treatment. A beautiful smile can open doors in both personal and professional realms, leading to increased opportunities and positive social interactions.

Technological Advancements in Porcelain Veneer Treatment

The field of cosmetic dentistry is constantly evolving, with new technologies enhancing the porcelain veneer experience:

Digital smile design: Allows patients to preview their new smile before treatment
3D printing: Enables the creation of more precise temporary veneers
CAD/CAM technology: Improves the accuracy and fit of custom-made veneers
Advanced imaging: Helps dentists plan treatment with greater precision
Improved bonding materials: Enhance the longevity and strength of veneers

How have these advancements improved the veneer process? These technologies have made the treatment more predictable, efficient, and customized to each patient’s unique needs and desires.

The Future of Porcelain Veneers

As research and technology continue to advance, we can expect to see further improvements in porcelain veneer treatments. Future developments may include:

Even thinner, more natural-looking veneers
Improved durability and longevity
More efficient and comfortable treatment processes
Enhanced customization options for patients

These ongoing advancements ensure that porcelain veneers will continue to be a leading option for smile enhancement in the years to come.

Choosing the Right Dentist for Your Porcelain Veneer Treatment

The success of your porcelain veneer treatment largely depends on the skill and experience of your chosen dentist. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a cosmetic dentist:

Credentials and training in cosmetic dentistry
Years of experience specifically with porcelain veneers
Before and after photos of previous patients
Patient reviews and testimonials
Use of advanced technology and techniques
Communication style and willingness to address your concerns

How can you ensure you’re choosing the right dentist? Schedule consultations with multiple providers, ask questions about their approach and experience, and trust your instincts about their ability to meet your needs.

The Importance of a Comprehensive Consultation

A thorough initial consultation is crucial for achieving the best results with porcelain veneers. During this appointment, your dentist should:

Conduct a comprehensive oral examination
Discuss your smile goals and expectations
Explain the veneer process in detail
Address any questions or concerns you may have
Provide a customized treatment plan and cost estimate

This consultation is your opportunity to ensure that you and your dentist are on the same page regarding your desired outcome.

Porcelain Veneers Pictures Before After

See 73 Porcelain Veneers before & after pictures of patients from Texas Center for Cosmetic Dentistry.

When placed by a highly trained dentist such as Dr. Cieplak or Dr. Whitaker, these veneers can last for up to 10 years before … porcelain veneers involves initial preparation of the tooth surface …

Porcelain Veneers Before And After Photos. before. after. … This patient was so self conscious that he never smiled for photos. His smile was transformed using porcelain veneers. He tells us it’s has been life changing. … This patients smile was transformed by the use of 2 porcelain crownsand 2 porcelain veneers. before. after.

See 116 porcelain veneers before & after pictures of patients from SmilesNY Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry.

Porcelain Veneers Pictures Porcelain veneers bond thin pieces of porcelain over the top of your teeth to improve size, shape, and color. It can help correct gaps, irregular shapes, chips, or stains. Because the original teeth are usually altered to place the veneers, it is an… Pictures of Porcelain Veneers The work below was done by Dr. David
Porcelain Veneers Utah bruxism porcelain veneers extending the porcelain so far that it is not supported by the underlying tooth can also cause the veneer to crack, Dr. Burton said, as can habitual teeth-grinding during sleep. Experts say veneers … Aug 29, 2013 · Conclusions 1. In this study, the presence of fractures and debonding in porcelain laminate veneers
Bruxism Porcelain Veneers Extending the porcelain so far that it is not supported by the underlying tooth can also cause the veneer to crack, Dr. Burton said, as can habitual teeth-grinding during sleep. Experts say veneers … Aug 29, 2013 · Conclusions 1. In this study, the presence of fractures and debonding in porcelain laminate veneers increases considerably in…

Porcelain Veneers Fishers Dentist, Dr Jeremy Jones provides Exceptional Dental Care in Fishers, IN Providing Dental Implant Services As Well As Family, Emergency And cosmetic dentistry dentist, Dr. Jeremy Jones and the talented staff at Dentistry of Fishers are pleased to offer a wide range of dental services to help you and your family restore and maintain oral

But it appears Married At First Sight’s Jessika Power has chipped one of her very expensive porcelain … It comes after photos of the 26-year-old’s dental work recently emerged, showing the …

It’s also important for the patient to communicate the traits they desire, and photos … veneers are an investment, so it’s imperative that the patient has an opportunity to get an exact preview of …

The below Porcelain Veneers before and after photos are submitted by verified providers on RealSelf. Click to learn more about the procedure and to get a closer look at results from real patients.

Composite Veneers Vs Porcelain Veneers Traditional veneers are typically about 0.5 millimeters thick, whereas Lumineers are typically 0.3 millimeters thick. Many patients and dentists prefer the Lumineers brand over traditional veneers because they’re thinner and easier to place on the teeth. They also resist stains and discoloration better than veneers made from other materials, like composite resin. RealSelf members say

I’ll be having 8 veneers put in and I couldn’t be more happy. So this is the product of my teeth after almost a year of Invisalign. They were a lot more crooked before. I’ve never liked the coloring …

Porcelain Veneers | University Parkway Dental

What are Porcelain Dental Veneers?

Porcelain dental veneers are a custom-designed shell inserted onto the surface of your teeth like a new layer of enamel to help restore the look of your teeth. Once inserted, they can cover damaged or worn enamel, provide a bright, white surface, and even help straighten crooked teeth.

Porcelain veneers are the ideal option for smile improvement, having become increasingly popular due to their simplicity and versatility. When bonded, they are virtually undetectable and highly resistant to coffee, tea, or even cigarette stains (though we do not condone smoking for a variety of health reasons) and their resemblance to natural tooth enamel is second to none. Because they are thin, they take on the natural color of the underlying tooth.

Picture a veneer as an ultra-thin covering on your teeth’s outer surface made from super-strong, enamel-mimicking materials, thus making it a tooth’s perfect substitute. Having a porcelain veneer bonded to your tooth makes for an attractive, radiant, and new exterior.

Call University Parkway Dental in Sarasota, Florida today at 941-822-8165 or continue reading for more information!

How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?

With proper care, porcelain veneers will assist in giving you your dream smile for at least a decade. We ensure that your veneers are made from the highest quality porcelain and bonded using state-of-the-art technology.

How Do Porcelain Dental Veneers Work?

Most common veneer applications involve removing a fine layer of tooth enamel before applying the porcelain material, making room for a seamless fitting of the porcelain veneer and giving it the most natural appearance possible. Porcelain dental veneers can help adjust not just your tooth color, but also its size, shape, and spacing.

What Type of Problems Do Porcelain Veneers Correct?

Discolored Teeth
Worn-Down Teeth
Chipped or Broken Teeth
Misaligned, Uneven, or Irregularly Shaped Teeth
Gaps in Teeth

This procedure happens in several phases:

Diagnosis and treatment planning: While we are here to help, we want to make sure you play an active role in planning your smile.

Preparation: A mold is taken of your teeth and sent to the lab for fabrication. The veneer should be ready in approximately a week or two.

Bonding: First, we place the veneer on your teeth with water or glycerin to check the fit and color. By this point, the color of the veneer is still adjustable by the shade of the cement used to adhere it before the tooth is cleansed with specific chemicals to achieve a bond.

Composite vs. Porcelain Veneers

Composite veneers have many advantages, namely their ability to remain cost-effective while not sacrificing quality. Direct composite veneers are sculpted onto your teeth rather than at a lab. The tooth-shaded resin is directly applied to teeth where it can be shaped, sculpted, and polished to elicit a more natural appearance.

While many patients prefer composite veneers to porcelain veneers, porcelain veneers can be a great option with proper care. Porcelain veneers are made of a more durable material than composite resin veneers and may last longer as a result. Porcelain veneers typically last between 10-15 years, while composite resin dental veneers last around 4-8 years.

Caring for Your Porcelain Dental Veneers

If you want to improve your smile with cosmetic dentistry, then veneers are a good treatment option. Along with proper at-home care, such as brushing with a non-abrasive toothpaste and flossing daily, and regularly scheduled checkups every six months, they are sure to provide you with a beautiful smile for years to come.

You may experience some sensitivity to extreme temperatures after placement of your veneer. This is due to the amount of enamel left on the tooth after it has been prepped. This is normal and should subside in a few weeks time. If sensitivity persists, please do not hesitate to call us.

Additionally, if you are known for clenching your teeth (bruxism), please be sure to let us know. We may recommend a soft, durable night guard for you to wear that can minimize stress placed on your teeth while you sleep.

For answers to questions such as, “do porcelain veneers stain?,” or for more information on how to get porcelain veneers, call in Sarasota, FL call 941-822-8165 to schedule a consultation today!

Pictures of Porcelain Veneers – Cosmetic Dentistry

This page shows member pictures of porcelain veneers done by dentists who are members of the www.mynewsmile.com cosmetic dentistry referral network. Click here to see a page of pictures of the porcelain veneer work of Dr. David Hall, site author and retired accredited cosmetic dentist. We also have another page of photos of porcelain veneers, featuring work by mynewsmile.com network dentists.

The patient in the pictures below had discolored and mal-aligned teeth. Not only do her porcelain veneers make her teeth look straight, without orthodontics, but the gumline is even, the gums are healthier, and her beautiful teeth make her whole smile radiate happiness. This is what excellent cosmetic dentistry will do for a patient. This work was done by Dr. Steven Wegner of Omaha, Nebraska. Click on the photos to see the work in greater detail.

Before
Click on either photo to see close-ups of this beautiful work.

After
Click on either photo to see close-ups of this beautiful work.

Below are some porcelain veneers performed by east central New Jersey cosmetic dentist Dr. Richard Champagne.

These teeth are worn and dark. Their wear has created an unsightly triangular appearance to the teeth.
Click on the photo to see a close up picture of her smile.

The beautiful porcelain veneers reveal the artistic talent of east New Jersey cosmetic dentist Dr. Richard Champagne.
Click on the photo to see a close up picture of her smile.

Below are some porcelain veneers performed by southeast Pennsylvania cosmetic dentist Dr. Donald Currie.

This case is a great illustration of the happiness that can come when you get a beautiful smile, no matter what your age. Click on the photo to see a close up picture of her smile.

This patient’s granddaughter and daughter are in the dental field and encouraged her to have this done. She was always hesitant to smile and ashamed of her teeth. She was ecstatic with the results and how it made her look younger. Click on the photo to see a close up picture of her smile.

Here are some porcelain veneers by Sarasota, Florida cosmetic dentist Dr. Lisa Brewer.

Derek’s smile makeover by Dr. Brewer. Click the photo for an enlarged version. Notice how perfectly natural the result looks, and how the smile design complements his face.

Click here to ask Dr. Hall a question.

This content was written by Dr. David Hall.

Before & After Pictures of Front Teeth Treated with Veneers & Crowns

Gallery – Restoring One to Four Front Teeth with Veneers or Porcelain Crowns

Contact Us Today!This gallery features the most challenging of all esthetic dental problems – placement of new restorations that match existing teeth. Be sure to visit the other galleries.

If you don’t see what you are looking for, please be sure to contact us. We have many more “before” and “after” photos that we can share with you.

The Challenge

Patient presents with darkened front tooth. Patient states she does not like her smile in pictures due to the color of the front tooth.

The Solution

Prepared the darkened tooth for a porcelain veneer to match the adjacent teeth.

The Challenge

Patient had composite veneers placed and they became stained and dark in color.

The Solution

Prepared the six anterior teeth for veneers to match the adjacent teeth.

The Challenge

Patient presents with a darkened tooth and would like veneers on the six anterior teeth.

The Solution

Prepared the six anterior teeth for veneers to match the adjacent teeth.

The Challenge

Patient presents with a darkened tooth and would like veneers on the six anterior teeth.

The Solution

Patient went through orthodontics to align all teeth. Prepared the darkened tooth for a veneer to match the adjacent teeth.

The Challenge

Patient presented with wanting to improve their smile by the color and contour of the teeth.

The Solution

Crowns were fabricated for the upper and lower arch. Patient was pleased with the color as well as a more comfortable and stable bite.

The Challenge

Patient presents with recession on all upper and lower teeth and wants to improve the appearance of the teeth as well as the color.

The Solution

Crowns were fabricated for the upper and lower arch to gain a stable bite relationship and lighten the color of the teeth.

The Challenge

Patient presents unhappy with the appearance of her upper teeth.

The Solution

Crowns were placed on the upper teeth to gain proper alignment, symmetry and lighter color for the patient.

Dental veneers before and after – Bauer Smiles

Dental veneers are a great solution for anyone looking for a quick way to improve your look. Whether you are looking for an entire smile make-over or just looking to fix one or two odd shaped or colored teeth, dental veneers are what you are looking for. A composite veneer can be helpful for one or two teeth but for more than that porcelain veneers are typically the way to go. This minimally invasive technique is a wonderful way to brighten your smile and improve any minor imperfections. Once placed, you will be pleased to see that dental veneers look and feel like natural teeth and resist staining.

Dr. Bryan Bauer will explain the entire process in detail and show you what you can expect to look like when done. As a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, by far the largest and most respected cosmetic organization, Dr. Bauer has been specially trained to provide you with the utmost esthetic results possible with veneers. Although newer ceramics do allow for a no prep (tooth not cut) veneer, most veneers are typically an irreversible procedure and do require some tooth modification. Is the no prep veneer right for you? How white can you go? Do you want a more natural look or do you want people to notice? Call today for a free consult to ask Dr. Bauer all of these questions and more. Together we will determine what the most esthetic option is for you.

Are porcelain dental veneers the right choice for you?

Without seeing you, no cosmetic dentist can say for sure. This is why we offer the FREE cosmetic consult, but most likely if you are wishing to improve your smile at least some teeth will have veneers. Even people missing some front teeth may end up with veneers on the teeth that are not missing. The first step to any veneer consult will always be to ensure that your mouth is clear of infection and your mouth, teeth, and gums are healthy.

Dental veneers on the upper teeth (before and after smile)

Dental veneer vs crown

This will depend primarily on how much tooth destruction you already have. If there are large fillings then you may need a crown. If there is an existing crown that needs replacing, then a dental veneer is impossible and you must have a crown. Most well trained cosmetic dentists would never intentionally remove more enamel than needed as the success rate of a dental veneer is heavily dependent on how much enamel is left (source). Unless a crown is already existing, Dr. Bauer doesn’t do traditional crowns for esthetics. If we must do a crown due to old fillings, we will do a 3/4 crown or an extended veneer. Basically we remove as little as we must to ensure the new veneer will seat.

Below is a case with veneers and crowns together. This one was interesting because she originally wanted to save her front two natural teeth and although the result of that looked excellent she loved the veneers so much she opted to treat the front two as well. Case is here.

Before and after smile

What about missing teeth that need a bridge? Can veneers still be made?

Some veneer cases will include not just dental crowns but dental bridges as well. In the smile design shown below, three front teeth are actually missing. We completed the smile design with a combination of dental crowns, dental bridges, and dental veneers.

The upper 2 photos are before and lower 2 are after the veneers

Dental veneer vs bonding

Bonding can be a great option for some people. Some examples of bonded composite veneers can be found here. I will often use this when only one or two teeth are needed to be improved. I have done this with more teeth but 4 teeth is usually the limit. The amount of time it takes to do this well, starts to become very tiring for the patient.

Mixing dental crowns, porcelain veneers, and composite veneers

Sometimes there is a need or a reason to use both porcelain and composite veneers. The case below has porcelain veneers, composite veneers and dental crowns. The combination looks like the same material on all the teeth.

Here Dr. Bryan did a couple composite veneers and 2 porcelain veneers (before and after smile)

Before and after dental veneers with some bonding too. You can see this case and others in high resolution here.

Prepless or no-prep veneers? Most likely it’s really minimal prep veneers

True prepless veneer cases are extremely rare if you want something that looks nice. I’ll typically do at least a minor adjustment somewhere to improve the function and look of your veneers. This was an example of a minimal prep veneer.

4 no prep dental veneers. The before photo has some pot marks and the angle of the teeth was odd.

How important is the dental lab technician when fabricating your dental veneers?

While most would argue that creating a beautiful dental veneer is a collaborative process, we believe the dental technician is the true artist. We feel the dentist is preparing the canvas, but the technician is the one creating the art. The job of the cosmetic dentist is to prepare the teeth so that the technician is capable of providing a beautiful result and judging the quality of the work the technician provides. Just like any form of art, not all who pick up the brush will have the same result. Years of careful and meticulous training and attention to detail are important but there is some internal aspect that allows some individuals to be exceptional.

Finding the exceptional, artistic individuals is our job. We have spent a lot of time scouring the country looking for just the right people to work with. The thing we think separates our work from many other less lifelike veneers is the secondary and tertiary anatomy. These aren’t captured well in most photos but photos taken from different angles and different lighting can capture it.

On the central incisors, the front two teeth, you can see the secondary anatomy. This is what reflects the light in the proper directions and makes a dental veneer appear more life-like. This is the same smile as the photo right above where we replaced just the front four teeth with dental veneers.

What are the steps to get your dental veneers? What is the process?

First off, you will always have something that will look nice. Never during your treatment will you be toothless or have gaps or missing areas. There are 3-5 steps to getting your veneers.

Step 1a – Prior to receiving your dental veneers you can see multiple versions of your new smile with us. We will need to take impressions and pictures of your teeth to do step 1 so step 1 may or may not take two visits. For instance, we can make a computer image of your new smile or you can try on temporary plastic versions.

A before and after smile digital mock up. I prefer a smile trial if possible.

Step 1b – You can wear un-cemented temporary versions of your veneers for a few weeks, like these

Example of someone doing a smile trial

Another smile trial

We call these a Trial Smile and it is a great way to ensure everyone is on the same page before we go too far.

Next is when we actually must prepare the teeth for the veneers.

Step 2 – You will have bonded temporary dental veneers to try out while the lab is working on making your final ones. You will wear these for 3-4 weeks. Check out our temporary dental veneers page to see what temps look like.

Step 3 – The last step is to try in the final veneers. We take photos and blow them up on my computer monitor and several key people in our office critique them. It is common for you to love your dental veneers as soon as tried on and want to keep them. However, we tell all our patients that Dr. Bauer makes the final decision as to whether they are perfect yet or they must go back to have some minor changes made. About half the time there are some minor tweaks that Dr. Bauer wants made. After both you and Dr. Bauer have discussed all the fine tuning that you want and we see and have fixed it all we bond your veneers in.

Finally, you are done and the last step is just tweaking and minor adjustments.

Step 4 – Follow up and fine tuning. Once the veneers are seated we take an impression to make you a night guard to protect your smile investment. We have you return in a week or two and will do any minor adjustments to the bite at that time.

Not everyone will need all of these steps. It will vary based on what your smile currently looks like and what you want it to look like. To give you an idea, here are two different examples of how you can do a “trial smile” before getting your final veneers.

In this smile we went straight to the cemented temporary version

In this smile she wore the un-cemented temporary smile for a few weeks first.

Example of doing 6 dental veneers. The upper are the before and bottom are the after.

How long does a dental veneer last?

If we can prepare veneer in all enamel, the survival rate at 10 years is 95% source. To find out how long your dental veneer might last check out my blog.

How much do Wheaton dental veneers cost?

Our fee for a porcelain dental veneer is around $2000 per tooth (2020). If you are doing less than 8 teeth, then we also charge $1,000 set up fee. Basically if you do more teeth the per tooth cost drops.

We include any fillings or decay removal that we need to do beforehand to ensure the tooth is ready for the veneer. For larger cases, more than 6 veneers, we do offer a free power teeth whitening. We may or may not include any gum surgery that is needed to make things ideal, depends on if need to remove bone or just tissue.

Do I need to be numb when I get my veneers?

Yes, you will need to be numb on multiple visits. The visit that we prepare the teeth for your veneers and take an impression you need to be numb for. Most people also need to be numb for the appointment when we put your dental veneers on as well.

Can you floss in-between a dental veneer and another tooth or another dental veneer?

Yes! One thing we do when you get your Wheaton dental veneers is check to ensure all of the cement is cleaned up around them . To check this in-between the teeth, flossing is one of the first things we do. The floss should snap through and flow through nice and smoothly. The floss should not get caught on the edges of the veneer or excess cement as this will increase the likelihood of getting decay around your veneer. A veneer will floss the same as a well made crown.

If Wheaton dental veneers are something that interest you, give us a call! We offer free consults and we can discuss your options! We will let you know exactly what your veneers cost will be.

My Veneers Story: See My Dramatic Before and After Photos

You’ve seen it on Instagram and with all three Olsen sisters. But, if, like me, you fall into the one-third of Americans who are self-conscious about their teeth, you might know it first-hand. I’m talking about the closed-mouth smile, an expression that’s part trendy, part coy, and completely effective at hiding teeth. But I didn’t always fall into the closed-mouth camp.

Flash back to a few years ago, when my dentist brought up the small stature of my teeth. Here’s the thing: Small teeth, in general, are not a problem, health-wise or aesthetically. (Just look at Cara Delevingne or Kirsten Dunst — two small-toothed women (for lack of a better term) with beautiful smiles.) My problem was that my teeth weren’t always this, well, little. The reduction in length — which he estimated was about 40 percent — was due to grinding. If that wasn’t enough to scare me (it was more than enough, trust me), it was only getting worse. But veneers, the only option that would bring back what I had worn away, just weren’t an option at the time. So, a closed-mouth smile it was.

After years of hiding my smile, I finally decided it was time to move forward with veneers. (Quick refresher: Veneers are very thin shells of porcelain, which are bonded to the front surface of the teeth to improve the shape, color, position, or size of them.) But first, there were a couple of things I needed to do. One, I had to find a dentist I trusted. Veneers are permanent and expensive (up to a couple thousand dollars per tooth), so this part was important — really important. “It’s always a good idea to find someone who teaches,” suggests Sivan Finkel, a cosmetic dentist in New York City.

“They are exposed to the latest and greatest.” He also recommends avoiding general dentists who don’t focus specifically on veneers. “Veneers are extremely technique sensitive, so I would find someone who devotes their entire day to this type of work,” he says. Finkel checked all of the above boxes, and since I live near his New York City practice, The Dental Parlour, it just made sense to go with him.