The Different Types of Dental Veneers Explained

Indeed, having stained teeth or mildly crooked teeth can be concerning. Fortunately, the fantastic advances in dentistry have created options such as dental veneers to enhance teeth and achieve a better smile.

And you’re probably here because you’ve heard things about dental veneers. These are thin shells that cover the teeth. The specific purpose of the treatment is to address teeth imperfections. Different types are available, so it can be tricky to decide which ones are right for you.

Here, we will look at the various types of dental veneers and discuss which ones are best for specific situations. So if you’re considering getting them, read on!

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are of tooth-coloured thin shells designed to affix to the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. They are custom-made and can change the shape, length, and colour of teeth. They are an excellent technique to improve the look of your smile that looks natural. Typically, your dentist will use a shade guide to help you select the colour that can match your adjacent teeth.

This cosmetic treatment masks aesthetic issues such as smaller teeth, tooth discolouration, and crooked teeth, as well as covers the chips that make your smile uneven. One of the advantages of dental veneers is that they are personalised for every person. It means there’s an advantage that the results can be more appealing and can meet your realistic expectations. Additionally, you can select from different types of veneers that you think would be suited your face, budget, or other personal preferences.

What Are the Different Types of Dental Veneers?

All different types of dental veneers can be used to correct many cosmetic dental issues, such as teeth that are stained, chipped, or slightly misaligned teeth. However, there are some key differences between them and the best material to use for your veneers may depend on your goals and budget. Now, let’s take a close look at each kind:

Composite Resin Veneers

Composite veneers are made from a resin composite that is a combination of organic and inorganic materials. They can be similar to the same substance used for dental fillings. The dentist will reshape the composite material and bond them to each tooth surface with the help of special light.

It is less expensive than porcelain that can be a cost-effective option for people looking to make modest changes to their smiles. However, because they’re not as strong as porcelain veneers, which means they may not last as long.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain is the most aesthetic and much thin type of veneer. It is more durable than composite veneers and can last many years with proper care. Additionally, they are stain-resistant, making them less likely to stain, so they can help you maintain a bright, white smile. But, they are more expensive than composite resin and require more teeth preparation before they can be placed over the natural tooth surface.

Lumineers

Lumineers are a brand of ultra-thin laminate veneers that also looks natural, and because they are smooth, they also feel natural in the mouth. They are less invasive than traditional veneers since they only require minimal preparation before placement.

Lumineers can be an excellent option for people who want to minimise the amount of natural tooth structure that is removed before placing a veneer over their tooth enamel.

It is important to note that most dental veneers are designed to be affixed to the teeth for several years. In rare cases when they have damaged, chipped, or loosens, your experienced dentist will recommend having them replaced.

Are Dental Veneers Removable?

Traditional dental veneers are designed to be permanent, meaning they’re meant to last for years without removing from your teeth. But, if you’re looking for veneers that you can remove when needed, there are two types, such as the following:

Instant veneers

Instant veneers are cheap cosmetic teeth that you can fit into your mouth by placing them in hot water and pressing your teeth into the soft fitting material.

While they may be quick and easy to use, instant veneers are not recommended for daily use or as a long-term dental treatment. The cheap materials used in instant veneers can easily break down with extended use, and they also do not provide the same level of support and protection as real dental veneers.

Instant veneers may be an option if you want a temporary option and a quick way to cover tooth imperfection, but be sure to talk to your dentist first to see if they are right for you.

Custom Snap-on Veneers

Custom snap-on veneers are high quality when it comes to finding removable veneers. They are custom-fit, so just like conventional veneers, an impression of your teeth will be needed to create them.

Removable dental veneers may be a convenient and conservative option, but they do not look quite as natural as permanent veneers. They are more likely to accumulate plaque and cause gum damage with prolonged wear. For these reasons, dentists always recommend permanent veneers over temporary alternative types.

Which Is Better Porcelain Veneers or Composite Veneers?

Porcelain and composite resin are the most commonly used materials in fabricating dental veneers. Both these types can improve the appearance of teeth, and they are often comparable. However, each has its own ways of working magic on the aesthetics of teeth and has unique advantages and disadvantages. So to help you decide between the two, we’ll discuss their pros and cons:

How to Choose the Right Veneers for Me?

Generally, some factors can help you select dental veneers that suit you well. These may include the following:

Face shape

When choosing the right veneers for your face, considering the shape of your face is essential. The results can be more appealing if the veneers compliment them and help you achieve your desired look. For instance, if you have a round face, choose longer and thinner veneers to make your face look slim. On the other hand, if you have a long face, shorter and wider veneers may suit you well.

The appearance of the veneers

Just as you would consider your face shape, the overall look you want to achieve will be significantly affected by the appearance of the veneers. Their length and size are important considerations when choosing the right veneers for your face. Whether you want a natural look or a more dramatic transformation, finding the right balance is key. If you’re unsure where to start, schedule a consultation with a dentist. They’ll be able to help you find the perfect veneers to achieve your desired look.

Cost

Dental veneers are considered a cosmetic dentistry treatment, which usually comes with a high cost. Insurance coverage is often rare with this dental procedure. Hence, considering their cost can be essential.

You can consult the dental clinic about the range or price of each dental veneer available so you can better prepare before the procedure.

Length of time of the placement process

One crucial factor is the length of time the veneer application process will take. Depending on the type of veneer you choose, the duration of placement can vary. Some veneers can be applied in a single office visit, while others may require multiple visits. It’s important to consider how much time you’re willing to commit to the veneer process before making a decision.

The lifespan of the veneers

Another vital factor to consider when choosing dental veneers is how long the veneers will last. Some types of veneers offer to last for a decade or more. Although, this is mainly dependent on how well you take care of them. With proper oral hygiene and maintenance, your dental veneers can last for many years. However, they may only last a few years if you do not take care of them.

Your dentist’s recommendations

When deciding on the right dental veneers for you, you must seek the opinion of a dentist you trust. During a consultation, your dentist can assess your individual needs and make specific recommendations. In some cases, your dentist may even be able to provide you with a sample veneer to help you before making a final decision.