Are Veneers Right For You?

In cosmetic dentistry, a veneer is a thin layer of material—usually composite or dental porcelain—that is put over and around a tooth. Though they are mostly aesthetic, veneers can protect your actual tooth from damage.

Veneers are man-made and are only available with a prescription from a cosmetic dentist. Sometimes, a patient may only use a veneer on a single tooth or put veneers on multiple teeth to create a perfect bright, white smile. They help people who have spaces or gaps and those whose teeth are wearing away. They also help cover and “straighten” teeth that appear crooked. Veneers will close gaps and spaces, lengthen teeth, provide uniformity by making all teeth the same shape and color, and hide gum recession. They are a great way to whiten teeth that will not otherwise whiten. Veneers are a great option for older adults whose teeth have begun to wear. In fact, they may find veneers preferable to dentures. Most of the time teeth do not require preparation before veneers.

A composite is created in a dental lab and then bonded to the tooth with resin cement. Composite veneers are typically used in adolescents until they are grown and get a permanent solution. Composites usually last around four years.