“Quality veneers are such that you’ll never notice them. People just think you have a great smile! I promise you: more people have veneers than you probably think.”
— Dr. Christopher Campus
What are veneers?
Veneers are very thin (hence the name) pieces of tooth-colored material, precisely shaped to fit over your existing teeth and serve as a new “surface,” providing a better aesthetic. Veneers are made to match the color and shade of your natural teeth, and are sized to fit the proportions of your face and mouth.
Typically, veneers are made of either porcelain or composite materials. We recommend porcelain veneers in most cases, as they resist stains better, last longer, and also are naturally reflective, so they look more like natural teeth.
Why would I want veneers?
Most people get veneers because they are unhappy with the appearance of their teeth, and don’t want to go through extensive orthodontic treatment or other restorative work. (Although, in some cases Invisalign can be completed in less than a year.) With veneers, you can basically get a perfect smile with no downtime. Veneers solve a variety of aesthetic dental issues, such as staining, crooked or chipped teeth, and large gaps between teeth. They can be used to quickly change the color, shape, size, or length of any tooth.
What is the process for getting veneers?
There are several stages. First, we take scans of your existing teeth to accurately capture their size and color. Then, we design the veneers, and have them fabricated. During this stage, we talk about size, shade, etc. to make sure you are completely happy with how your veneers will look. Finally, we place the veneers over your existing teeth, securely attaching them.
The entire process is completed in two appointments, spaced about a week apart. After your veneers are placed, there is no recovery period, and you shouldn’t experience any pain or discomfort.
Can I see what my veneers will look like before committing?
Absolutely! During your consultation, we can take impressions and have our lab fabricate what’s called a “wax up,” which is a 3D model of your teeth (made of wax), with your veneers in place. It takes a couple weeks, but you’ll be able to see exactly what your new smile will look like!
How many veneers should I get?
For the best result, most people get six veneers for their top front teeth, and some opt for six veneers for their bottom teeth as well. It’s usually best to get a full set (either just the top, or both the top and bottom) at the same time, as all your teeth will match perfectly.
We can place just a single veneer, if necessary, but a good alternative is either full-tooth bonding (often called a “chair-side veneer”) or a same-day crown. Depending on your specific needs, we can make the best recommendation for you. Thanks to the advancements in dental lab technology in recent years, we can perfectly match your restoration to your existing teeth, regardless of what option you go with.
Veneers are a great option if you are unhappy with your smile. If you are considering getting veneers, give us a call at (850) 492-7647 to schedule a consultation. We’re happy to walk you through the process and answer any questions you have.