dental veneers
Dr and hygienist examining patient for veneers

Transform Your Smile with Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are a permanent solution to repair broken, cracked, or discolored teeth. Veneers can also be used to even out mismatched tooth sizes, correct caps between teeth, and address teeth that cannot be whitened by bleaching. Veneers are custom-made shells of tooth-colored material designed to cover the front surface of the teeth. Veneer teeth look, feel and function as natural teeth.

Due to their permanency, veneer teeth are a lifelong investment and solution to restoring your smile. Midlothian Family Dentistry takes every step to ensure our patients feel comfortable and confident throughout the entire procedure.

Selecting the Right Type of Veneers

Just as all teeth come in all different shapes, sizes, and colors, there are numerous veneer teeth materials to choose from. It's important to discuss these options with your provider to select the best fit for your lifestyle and budget.

Zirconium veneers

Zirconium veneers are often the best solution for patients who experience more severely damaged or decayed teeth. Stronger than traditional porcelain or composite resin veneers, zirconium veneers are one of the toughest veneer materials and can strengthen a weak tooth. They are also resistant to chewing, lighter than other metal-supported veneers, and extremely comfortable. Zirconium veneers are expected to last between 10-30 years.

Porcelain veneers

Porcelain veneers are among the most common type of veneer teeth. Strong and durable, porcelain veneers will not stain, chip, or discolor over time. The application process does require multiple visits and is an irreversible procedure. With proper care, porcelain veneers can last between 10-20 years

Composite veneers

Composite veneers, or resin veneers, are a common alternative to porcelain veneers. With same-day bonding and minimal enamel removal, composite veneers are a fast and affordable solution to correct dental flaws. Made of resin, composite veneers can be easily repaired if broken or chipped, lasting an average of 10 years.

Partial veneers

Partial veneers are made of composite porcelain material and cover only a small portion of the impacted tooth. Partial veneers are often recommended for those who have eroded tooth enamel, causing sensitivity and discomfort. They can also be used to cover up minor dental flaws, such as cracks, cavities, and discoloration.

No-prep veneers

No-prep veneers are thin, compact shells that require minimal or no preparation ahead of your visit. Also known as Lumineers, these veneers are only meant to treat small chips, mishappen, or discolored teeth. This non-invasive procedure is the only non-permanent veneer option and can be removed.

Doctor and hygienist examining patients teeth

Find Your Best Fit

Which Type of Veneer is Right for You?

It depends on multiple factors, such as the dental flaw or damage in need of repair, material, budget, and more. During your next visit to Midlothian Family Dentistry, your dentist will explore the different options and help you determine which type of veneer teeth work best for you.

What to Expect During Your Veneer Visit

Prior to receiving your veneer teeth, you will have a preliminary appointment with your MFD dentist to discuss which option is best for you. X-rays may be taken to rule out signs of tooth decay, gum disease, or other damage. Your dentist will then remove a small portion of the enamel from the tooth before taking a mold. The mold will then be sent to a lab to create the veneer.

Once your veneer teeth are ready, your dentist will clean and apply your veneer(s). After some shaping and polishing, your dentist will bond the veneer with UV light.

FAQs

What is the difference between veneers and crowns?

Veneer teeth are not the same as dental crowns. Veneers only cover the tooth's front surface, while crowns encase the entire tooth. Where veneer teeth are a cosmetic procedure, crowns are a restoration procedure to address large cavities that threaten a tooth's health.

Will porcelain veneers increase the risk of cavities or tooth decay?

Porcelain veneers do not impact the probability of cavities or tooth decay. The best way to prevent cavities and decay is to take good care of your oral health and schedule routine cleanings.

Will porcelain veneers impact my diet?

Permanent veneers are made of high-quality materials, but they can be subject to discoloration or damage depending on your diet. Your dentist may recommend avoiding stain-causing drinks, such as coffee and red wine, as well as smoking or using tobacco products. With temporary veneers, avoid extremely sticky and chewy food, such as caramels or tough meats, and hard or sharp foods like ice and popcorn.

Why do some veneers look fake?

If veneer teeth are not properly molded, color-matched or shaped, there's a good chance they will look off compared to natural teeth. Patient satisfaction is our number one priority at Midlothian Family Dentistry, and we take pride in making sure veneer teeth look, act and feel like your normal teeth. We are positive you will leave feeling confident after your procedure.

Will my insurance cover the cost of veneers?

It depends on your insurance policy. Dental veneers are predominately not covered or only partially covered by insurance, as it is most often considered a cosmetic procedure. Learn more about the insurance plans MFD offers.

Are veneers reversible?

Apart from no-prep veneers, all veneers are permanent and non-reversible. Should you require a replacement, veneers can be replaced.

Discuss your options with our dental professionals

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