Among the restorative options that cosmetic dentists have, dental veneers are one of the most popular ways to gain a better-looking smile. A versatile treatment option, veneers can improve the appearance of discolored or stained teeth, fix minor chips and cracks, and reshape the look of misshapen or gapped teeth. Different types of veneers can suit different patients better, depending on the individual’s dental needs and characteristics. But what are the different types of veneers that are available to patients? It helps to be informed before your appointment.
Porcelain Veneers
Traditional porcelain veneers have been the toughest and longest-lasting type of veneers for decades. Traditional porcelain is the first modern material used for veneers, and continues to be used with great success. Its durable and enamel-like characteristics give a clean, white look to your smile that is often preferred for cosmetic reasons.
However, advances in machining and dental technology have also now made it possible to create veneers with other new types of ceramic materials, and now these may be preferable depending on the patient. Dr. McCormick will help create the best option for you.
Both porcelain and ceramic types can typically be milled in a dental lab, using CAD/CAM technology to create perfectly-matched veneers for each tooth. Dr. McCormick will evaluate your teeth to decide which material option and technique is best for your veneers. Both porcelain and other ceramics offer great functionality and lifespan — between 10 to 15 years, or longer with good dental care.
Prepless Veneers
Prepless veneers are a modern, appealing option for many people. With traditional veneers, often the surface of the tooth is ground down to allow for the thickness of the veneer. If enough enamel needs to be removed, you must always have the veneers or other restorations throughout your lifetime in order to protect the dentin or interior layer of the tooth. Prepless veneers don’t require the irreversible step of enamel removal and can be done without removing any tooth structure. They also have stronger attachment than traditional porcelain or ceramic veneers thanks to their bond with the stronger enamel of the teeth versus the softer dentin that’s sometimes revealed in standard veneer preparation.
In most cases, prepless veneers don’t even require an injection of local anesthetic before being placed, which speeds up the procedure and skips a step that some nervous patients dread along with the inconvenience of a numb mouth.
Creating prepless veneers is only possible with an excellent dental lab, so not all dentists offer them. Talk with your cosmetic dentist to determine whether prepless veneers can work for you.
Talk to Dr. McCormick About Dental Veneers
If you’re considering enhancing your smile using dental veneers, Dr. McCormick and his team can advise you on the best way to improve the overall appearance of your teeth. As an AACD accredited dentist, Dr. McCormick has had intense additional training in cosmetic dentistry and he strives towards the highest levels of education and patient care. Contact our office to schedule a consultation.
