Most Frequently Asked Questions About Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are wafer-thin ceramic sheets placed onto the teeth’s front surfaces to cover certain dental imperfections. Porcelain veneers are custom-made. They are made of a tooth-like ceramic material, which is similar to the natural teeth’s enamel. For these reasons, your new smile appears more natural. Below are answers to some of the most common questions about porcelain veneers.

What dental problems are resolved by porcelain veneers?

Also termed dental porcelain laminates, porcelain veneers are used to improve crooked, damaged, heavily stained, unevenly spaced, and badly-shaped teeth.

Which are better, composite veneers, or porcelain veneers?

Dental veneers are either made of composite resin or porcelain. At present, more dentists and patients prefer porcelain veneers. Although composite veneers are cheaper and require lesser teeth reshaping compared with porcelain veneers, they are more easily stained. Porcelain veneers are more stain-resistant, durable, and natural-looking. Because composite veneers don’t last long, they could get more expensive after some time.

Are porcelain veneers for everyone?

Porcelain veneers are generally safe; however, this procedure is not for everyone. Your teeth must be strong enough to support the veneers. If your teeth lack sufficient amount of enamel, the placement of veneers will not work.

How are porcelain veneers done?

Your teeth’s front surfaces are initially reshaped or trimmed by your cosmetic dentist. This process involves the permanent removal of the teeth’s enamel. A local anesthesia may be applied before reshaping to numb the area. Your dentist will make an impression of your teeth. It takes one to two weeks to construct the veneers. On the day of the placement, the teeth are cleaned and etched. A special cement is applied to the veneers, which are securely bonded onto the teeth. A special light is applied to quickly harden the cement. A minimum of two dental visits, one to two weeks apart, may be necessary to complete the application of porcelain veneers.

How long do they last?

Porcelain veneers may last between 10 to 15 years. With proper dental hygiene and regular dental check-ups, the veneers may last longer.

Are porcelain veneers covered by my dental insurance?

Porcelain veneers are part of cosmetic dentistry. Because they are elective, dental insurance policies usually do not cover the costs.

For more information on porcelain veneers and other cosmetic dentistry treatments such as dental implants and teeth whitening, contact our Boston area cosmetic dentistry office.