What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are popular cosmetic dentistry treatments that can help enhance the aesthetics of your smile. Designed to fit over the fronts and sides of the teeth, veneers can allow you to achieve the bright, straight, beautiful smile you’ve always wanted. The treatment can improve the appearance of a single tooth, be incorporated into a comprehensive smile makeover, and beyond.
Our Blaine dentists are committed to providing top-quality dental care that optimizes the health and beauty of your smile. Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and continue reading to learn more about dental veneers.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Veneers?
In the hands of an experienced dentist, veneers are widely considered a versatile and long-lasting smile enhancement strategy. Their common advantages include:
- The ability to conceal chips, cracks, gaps, stains, and even minor cases of misalignment
- A customized fit and shade
- Natural-looking effects
- Stain resistance and durability
- In some cases, a minimally-invasive procedure with little to no enamel removal necessary
Complementary Procedures to Dental Veneers
Because veneers can offer such transformative aesthetic benefits, many patients choose to include them as part of a comprehensive smile makeover. For results that are optimally harmonious and long‑lasting, our team often pairs veneers with options like teeth whitening, to achieve a bright, consistent shine; gum recontouring, to reshape gums and reveal more of the tooth structure; cosmetic bonding, to refine tooth shape and symmetry; and more.
During your consultation and initial evaluation, your dentist will assess all aspects of your smile and work with you to design a customized treatment plan.
What Does the Dental Veneer Procedure Entail?
The veneer procedure typically involves two visits to our office. During your initial consultation, we will evaluate your oral health and determine whether veneers are the right choice for your needs. If you decide to move forward, your dentist will begin by taking an impression of the tooth (or teeth) being treated as a blueprint for your final restoration. After approximately two weeks, you will return to our office, where we will apply your veneers using a strong dental adhesive.* Finally, your dentist will make any necessary adjustments to create a comfortable and natural-looking fit.
What Can I Expect From Dental Veneer Recovery?
Most patients can return to their normal routine immediately after getting veneers, though an adjustment period of a few days to two weeks is common. Good oral hygiene (namely brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly) should help maintain both your veneers and the health of the supporting teeth and gums. To prevent damage, avoid using your teeth to open packages or bite hard objects.
How Long Do Dental Veneers Last?
With proper care, veneers can stay beautiful and functional for many years—sometimes as long as 20. Their longevity depends on factors such as maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding habits that can chip or crack the porcelain (like nail biting or using teeth to open packages), and scheduling regular dental check-ups to monitor their condition. While the veneers themselves are highly durable, the underlying teeth and gums must remain healthy to support them. Over time, normal wear may require replacement, but with diligent care, veneers should provide a natural-looking, confident smile for decades.
How Much Do Dental Veneers Cost?
The cost of dental veneers can vary based on a number of factors, including how many veneers are needed, the type of veneers being placed, and the incorporation of additional cosmetic treatments if applicable. During your consultation, one of our experienced cosmetic dentists can assess your smile and review your aesthetic goals. From there, we can discuss the different options available and provide a personalized cost estimate that accounts for the unique details of your treatment plan.
Interested in learning more about veneers? Contact us today to schedule an appointment!