Porcelain Veneers in Suffern, NY

What Is There to Know About Porcelain Veneers?

Veneers are made of thin layers of dental porcelain, and they are attached to the surface of teeth using strong bonding material. Veneers porcelain can dramatically improve your smile's appearance, and they look just like your real teeth. They can change the color of teeth, correct chipped or misshapen teeth, and replace small gaps in teeth.

What Do Porcelain Veneers Cost?

The total cost of veneers made from porcelain can vary and is determined by your dentist after an examination of your mouth and a discussion of your treatment goals. The total cost is impacted by the overall complexity of the procedure and how many teeth are being treated with veneers. Dental insurance doesn't usually cover the porcelain veneers cost because treatment is considered an elective, cosmetic treatment, but we may have payment options or flexible financing options available to suit your needs. Make an appointment today to learn more.

What Are the Differences Between Veneers and Crowns?

Dental veneers and crowns have some similarities, but they also have several distinct differences. They are both composed of porcelain, improve the aesthetics of your smile, and are applied over teeth to mask imperfections like chipped teeth or discoloration. However, porcelain crowns cover the entire tooth, all the way to the gums, and veneers only cover the front surface of teeth. This is why crowns are also called "dental caps," since they fit over the entire tooth.

In addition to differences in how they cover the tooth, veneers and crowns are also different in the amount of tooth enamel that needs to be replaced. Dental crowns are much thicker than veneers and require the removal of the natural tooth structure or extensive decay before they're bonded into place. Veneers are typically much thinner and require a minimal reduction in tooth structure. Crowns are also stronger and more durable, which is an important consideration for patients who grind their teeth.

If your teeth are otherwise healthy, but you want to improve the appearance of your smile, veneers may be the best option for you. However, if your teeth are damaged from decay, chips, or cracks, you may benefit from the reinforced structure dental crowns provide. Schedule your consultation today to learn whether you're a candidate for porcelain veneers in Suffern.

What Preparation Is Needed Before Veneers Can Be Placed?

The porcelain veneers procedure is typically a multi-step process. During the first step, some of your tooth enamel may be removed. This is usually less than one millimeter and is performed to ensure a natural-looking fit for your veneers. After your teeth have been prepared, your dentist will take an impression of your teeth, which is sent to a dental laboratory, and a technician will design custom-made veneers to match the specific shape of your teeth. The color of your surrounding teeth will also match the shade of your veneers.

You may have to wait up to two weeks for the permanent veneers to be manufactured. To protect your teeth during this waiting period, your dentist will place temporary veneers over your teeth. You'll come back for another appointment when your permanent veneers are ready for placement. After removing the temporary veneers, a special adhesive is applied to firmly hold the permanent veneer to the surface of your tooth. After making any necessary adjustments, your dentist uses an ultraviolet light to secure the veneers to your teeth.

How Long Can I Expect Veneers to Last?

Porcelain teeth are a great long-term solution to improving the look of your smile, and they can last for about 15-20 years with basic oral hygiene habits. Visiting your dentist every six months for examinations and cleanings and brushing and flossing daily can help keep your veneers looking great, but they can be damaged just like natural teeth. You'll want to avoid biting into hard objects and wear a mouth guard if you're playing contact sports. If you're prone to grinding your teeth, wearing a night guard can keep your veneers protected from damage.