What is a dental veneer?
A dental veneer is a thin layer of material that we use to cover the front surface of a natural tooth and change its appearance.
What problems can dental veneers address?
Dental veneers can address a lot of cosmetic concerns. Most commonly, mild crowding, discoloration, and staining can sometimes be masked with veneers. They can also be used to change the appearance, size, or shape of certain teeth depending on what you're looking to improve.
Are dental veneers permanent?
Dental veneers are considered a long-term cosmetic treatment, but the restorations themselves don't necessarily last forever. With porcelain veneers, some natural tooth structure may need to be prepared, which can make the treatment irreversible. Composite bonding can sometimes require less alteration of the natural tooth, depending on the individual case.
Can veneers match the color of your teeth?
Veneers can be made to closely match the color of your natural teeth. Some patients decide they want to go a little bit brighter with their shade, but there are many shades that we can utilize for dental veneers so we can work toward your specific goals.
Should you choose porcelain or composite veneers?
When deciding whether to go with a porcelain or composite veneer, it really comes down to the patient's starting point and final goals. Porcelain veneers can provide a highly aesthetic result and give us different options for changing the shape and appearance of the teeth. If we're closing spaces or addressing the appearance of mild crowding, porcelain may be one option.
A composite veneer can be great if you're simply trying to increase the size of maybe one tooth that's too small or mask some discoloration. Composite and porcelain have different advantages, maintenance needs, and expected lifespans, so we'll discuss which option makes sense for your smile.
How long does it take to get dental veneers?
Depending on the type of veneer you choose and how many veneers you'd like to get done, that really dictates how long it will take. For porcelain veneers across the front teeth, treatment typically involves an initial appointment to prepare the teeth and a second visit to bond the final veneers after they're ready.
Composite veneers can often be completed directly on the teeth during a single appointment. The actual appointment length depends on how many teeth we're treating and the amount of work involved.
How do you care for dental veneers?
Dental veneers require regular care to help them last as long as possible, and that includes your standard brushing and flossing routine. You also want to be careful whenever you have a veneer covering a front tooth. Don't use your teeth to open packages or bite your nails because we want to reduce the chance of chipping or damaging the veneer.
How long do composite and porcelain veneers last?
Composite veneers may last several years, while porcelain veneers can often last longer. But there's no single timeline that applies to every patient. How long your veneers last depends on factors such as the material, your bite, home care, oral habits, and how the restorations are maintained.
Keeping up with proper brushing and flossing and avoiding using your teeth for things they weren't meant for, like opening packages or biting your nails, can help protect your veneers. If you clench or grind your teeth, your dentist may also recommend a night guard when appropriate.
How much do dental veneers cost?
The cost of a dental veneer varies depending on the material you want. A composite veneer could be anywhere between $600 and $800, whereas a porcelain veneer could range from about $1,200 to $2,000. Again, it depends on the material we're using, how many teeth we're working on, and the specifics of your treatment. We also offer dental financing for these procedures.
Does dental insurance cover veneers?
Dental insurance doesn't typically cover veneers when they're being done solely for cosmetic reasons. However, coverage varies by individual plan and the reason for treatment, so it's important to review your specific dental benefits.
You're never alone in caring for your dental health. At Boulder Canyon Dental, our team is here to support and meet you where you are in your dental journey. Call (970) 514-0662 or email [email protected] to connect with us today.