What Are Dental Veneers?

Like the thin shell of expensive wood on a high-quality piece of furniture, dental veneers are used to cover minor imperfections, irregularities, and stains in teeth. They are custom fitted and shaped to each tooth. We offer both traditional porcelain or resin composite veneers, and Lumineers, a much thinner but equally strong product that offers an even better appearance. Unlike braces, which actually straighten teeth, veneers merely give the appearance of straighter teeth.

When are Veneers Used?

When you have a tooth that is stained and bleaching is not effective, a dental veneer can cover the tooth. They are particularly effective for stains that are internal to the tooth that cannot be treated in any other way. A veneer can cover a noticeable gap between your front teeth or a tooth that is chipped or slightly crooked.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

Although each case is different, most patients need three appointments. The first appointment is used to assess the condition of your teeth and develop a corrective treatment plan. Although a veneer is a thin shell, in order for it to fit properly, your teeth must be shaped and buffed, which occurs at the second appointment. At the third appointment, the veneers will be fitted and attached to your teeth. You may also need a follow-up appointment a few weeks later to check for any problems.

What's Different About Lumineers?

Lumineers are much thinner than traditional veneers (they are, however, equally strong). As a result, less prep work is needed to fit them to your teeth. If you choose Lumineers, you may only need two visits instead of the traditional three. The thin shell also affects the appearance of the veneer, giving a translucent appearance and a sheen that looks more like a natural healthy tooth.