Below are some of the most frequently asked questions patients have about veneers. If you have any other questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, we would love to hear from you.
Click on a question below to see the answer.
Q:
Can Veneers be repaired?
A:
It basically depends upon the material used for making veneers. Resin veneers can easily be repaired by sending them back to the laboratory, or even at the chairside in case of minor damage. However, the case is a bit difficult in case of porcelain veneers. If there is a minor chip in the porcelain veneers, your dentist may be able to repair the defect by using a resin of similar shade. In case of a superficial crack, the dental ceramist can buff the surface of the veneer to restore the esthetics. Finally, in case of complete breakage, veneers cannot be repaired and they need to be replaced.
Q:
Is there a warranty for Veneers?
A:
In case of damage or fracture, your dentist will replace the veneers at a reduced cost within the stipulated time frame if proper homecare is used.
Q:
What is a Master Ceramist?
A:
A master ceramist is a dental professional who owns a dental laboratory, and who is trained in creating high quality dental porcelain prostheses like crowns, inlays, onlays and veneers. Unlike the larger laboratories which are providing services to hundreds of dentists in their area, and create similar looking crowns and bridges for each patient, master ceramists are skilled in Hollywood smiles, which are exactly customized according to your dental needs. Since a master ceramist will give you a customized smile, they tend to charge higher for their services.
Q:
What is the cost of dental veneers?
A:
The cost of dental veneers varies according to material used for their fabrication. Generally, resins veneers can cost between $250—1500 per tooth. On the other hand, porcelain veneers are generally costly, and they cost between 500—2500 per tooth. The higher cost of porcelain veneers is due to the time cost of materials and their superior esthetics, strength and durability.
Q:
Can Veneers be made in a single day?
A:
The short answer is, yes. Thanks to modern dental technology, it is now possible to prepare veneers or lumineers in a single day by using the CAD CAM technology. Instead of using the conventional laboratory technology, digital impressions of your prepared teeth will be fed into a special software, and a digital design of your veneers or lumineers will be prepared. Finally, a milling machine will be used to fabricate the prosthesis.
Q:
How thin are lumineers?
A:
One of the best things about lumineers is their reduced thickness in comparison to the veneers. On average, lumineers are about 0.2mm in thickness, which is equal to the thickness of contact lenses. In contrast, porcelain veneers typically have thicknesses of about 1mm. As a result, attachment of lumineers requires sacrifice of very little natural tooth structure. However, at the same time, the strength of lumineers is comparable to conventional veneers.
Q:
Can decay get under a veneer?
A:
Yes, this can happen due to a variety of reasons. Firstly, if proper home care is not followed , cement which attaches the veneers to the tooth forms micro cracks due to the patient grinding there are chances of development of cavities under the veneers. Similarly, if a veneer gets damaged or chipped, the underlying tooth surface is exposed, thereby making it vulnerable to decay and secondary caries. Again, cavities under veneers increase manifold if regular oral hygiene maintenance is ignored. The good news is the dentist can usually remove caries from behind the veneer without removing it !
Q:
How much do veneers cost on the average?
A:
The cost of porcelain veneers and range on average from $900 -3500.
Q:
Will I have good looking temporary teeth?
A:
The aesthetics of temporary veneers is very acceptable in some cases matching the color and shape of the permanent veneers. This is accomplished by using the wax-up template before teeth preparation.
Q:
How much tooth is removed for veneers?
A:
With Lumineers , Vivaneers and occasionally regular veneers non-prepped ( no tooth structure removal) can be used. This depends on the teeth size and alignment with adjacent and opposing teeth. This is why a consultation with the dentist who will cover all the options is very important before any treatment is started.
Q:
Is it best to bleach teeth first?
A:
Yes! The dentist will match the shade of existing teeth or new lightened teeth to the new veneers. The shade of the veneers will never change.
Q:
Will I see a model of my teeth before we start?
A:
Yes! It is very important to see a finished model showing what the patients teeth will look like before the treatment is started. This is called a wax-up needed to make and showing what temporary Veneers and permanant Porcelain Veneers will look like. This is also important to have for the future, making it much easier to replace any Veneer if needed.
Q:
Who will make my veneers?
A:
Dental veneers are thin -colored shells that are atttached to the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. They can be used to treat cosmetic concerns like chipped, broken, discolored, or smaller-than-average teeth. Dental veneers are often made of porcelain or resin- composite materials and are permanently bonded to your teeth.
Porcelain veneers are made by reducing the frontal section of teeth chosen and then making an impression of your teeth for the creation of a mold. Then they’ll send the mold out to a lab for the porcelain veneer to be made.
Composite resin veneers, on the other hand, are applied by etching the surface of your tooth before applying a thin layer of the composite material to your prepared tooth. Additional layers of composite may be necessary to achieve your intended look.
Q:
How long will they last?
A:
Dental veneers can last for around 10-15years or longer if maintained properly To ensure their longevity, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice and flossing at least once a day. Avoid biting on hard objects such as hard candy, on ice, limit sticky sweets and thing that could fracture a normal tooth or remove dental fillings. If you are engaged in physical activity such as wrestling or boxing, use a mouth guard to protect your teeth from cracking or chipping. It is also important to undergo an oral examination every six months following the placement of veneers
Q:
Can veneers close spaces between my teeth without wearing braces?
A:
Yes, veneers can indeed close spaces between your teeth without the need for braces. Veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of your teeth. This approch is less invasive and quicker compared to traditional orthodonic treatment.
Q:
What is a veneer wax-up and why are they so important?
A:
A diagmostic is important for making veneers because it helps establish the desired outcome of esthetics and funtion , facilitates treatmrnt planning and communication and ensures that the treatment plan is achievable.
Q:
Do I have to watch what I eat?
A:
If you have veneers, you can consume a wide variety of foods and beverages without fear of damaging them. Porcelain veneers are very strong, but they may be damaged by the same hard things that can fracture or compromise the esthetics of your own natural teeth.
Q:
Can Resins be used instead of porcelain?
A:
Certainly! Let’s delve into the comparison between resin veneers and porcelain veneers for dental applications.
Resin Veneers:
- Material: Resin veneers, also known as composite veneers, are crafted from a combination of resins.
- Advantages:
- Cost-Effective: Resin veneers are generally more affordable than porcelain veneers, making them an attractive option for many patients.
- Repairable: In case of damage, resin veneers are easier to repair than porcelain ones, which may require replacement.
- Versatile: Resin veneers can be accurately matched to the color of your existing teeth, providing a seamless appearance.
- Limitations:
- Durability: Resin veneers are less durable than porcelain veneers and may not last as long.
- Staining: They are more prone to staining over time.
- Placement: Resin veneers are typically placed in a single visit.
- Enamel Preservation: Dentists remove less enamel when placing resin veneers12.
Porcelain Veneers:
- Material: Porcelain veneers come in three types: traditional porcelain, zirconia, and lithium disilicate.
- Advantages:
- Durability: Porcelain veneers are highly durable and resistant to staining.
- Aesthetics: They closely mimic natural tooth enamel in appearance.
- Longevity: Porcelain veneers tend to last longer.
- Limitations:
- Cost: Porcelain veneers are more expensive than resin veneers.
- Placement Process: The process involves two visits: preparation and bonding.
- Enamel Removal: Dentists remove more enamel to accommodate porcelain veneers.
- Indications: Porcelain veneers are suitable for extensive smile makeovers and correcting severe aesthetic issues34.
In summary, if you prioritize cost-effectiveness and ease of repair, resin veneers may be a good choice. However, if durability, aesthetics, and longevity are your priorities, porcelain veneers are often preferred.
Q:
How white can you make the porcelain?
A:
Porcelain veneers can be made to be very white. It is important to make sure that the shade of your veneers are based on your skin tone, eye color and natural tooth shade to ensure that they look life-like and natural.
Q:
Are more expensive veneers better than cheaper ones?
A:
When it comes to dental veneers, the cost can indeed vary, and it’s essential to consider both quality and budget.
Materials:
Cost:
Lifespan and Aesthetics:
In summary, while more expensive veneers (especially porcelain) offer superior quality and longevity, your decision should consider both your budget and desired outcome.
Q:
What happens if they break?
A:
If a dental veneer breaks, it’s essential to take prompt action. Here’s what you should do:
Remove Loose Pieces: Carefully remove any loose fragments of the broken veneer from your mouth. Place these pieces in a safe container, such as wrapping them in tissue and putting them inside a medicine bottle. If the veneer is still fully intact, your dentist may be able to reattach it.
Check for Sharp Edges: Investigate your tooth for sharpness. If necessary, use white dental wax to cover your tooth’s surface. This protective layer will prevent irritation to your lips, cheeks, and tongue.
Contact Your Dentist: Reach out to your dentist’s office and report the situation. They will guide you on the next steps.
Be Cautious: Consider your tooth fragile and limit its exposure to chewing and biting forces. Additionally, avoid extreme temperatures (hot, cold, and air) as they may trigger sensitivity.
Types of Veneer Emergencies:
- Fractured Veneer: When a portion of the veneer breaks off, possibly in a relatively large size.
- Completely Debonded Veneer: If the entire veneer comes off (hopefully as an intact unit).
- Cracked Veneer: The veneer remains on your tooth, but a visible crack or craze line is apparent in it.
Remember that porcelain veneers are not repairable; when they crack or break, they require total replacement. Seeking professional care promptly ensures the best outcome for your smile!
Q:
Is there a warranty for veneers?
A:
The duration and terms of these warranties if any can differ, so it's a good idea to discuss this with your dentist before getting veneers. Some warranties might cover only specific types of damage, while others could be more comprehensive.
Q:
What is a Master Ceramist?
A:
A master dental veneer ceramist is a highly skilled professional who specializes in crafting porcelain dental veneers—thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of teeth to improve their apperance. In essence, they are artists guilded by the dentist for a perfect smile and lifelike esthetics that the patient desires.
Q:
Are Lumineers better them regular veneers? And how thin are they?
A:
Q:
Can they be made in one day?
A:
Yes! Veneers can be made in one day.
Q:
What is the cost of veneers with no dental insurance?
A:
Veneers can cost up to $ 3,000 . If depends upon the material used, case complexity, and the dentist fee schedule . Patient should be informed before and treatment is started.
Q:
The average cost of veneers in NYC is what?
A:
Real-life patient experiences also provide insights into veneer costs. Many patients have reported paying around $1,750 to $3,500 per tooth for porcelain veneers in NYC. However, it’s important to remember that everyone’s case is unique, and the final cost will depend on individual factors. Also costs fluctuate based on a variety of factors, including the expertise of the dentist and master ceramist, along with the characteristics of the materials and fabrication techniques used to craft the veneers.
Q:
Is the Porcelain used in veneers as strong as the tooth removed?
A:
Porcelain veneers are quite strong, but they aren’t as strong as natural tooth enamel. Natural teeth are coated with enamel, which is the hardest substance in the human body.
Q:
Can decay get under a veneer if the cement seal leaks?
A:
Yes, caries can develop under a veneer if the cement seal leaks. When the seal between the veneer and the tooth is compromised, it allows bacteria to enter and accumulate, leading to decay. W hen you see your Dentist every 6 months he or she can detect this. If this has to be treated it is great to know the Veneer does not have to be removed if it is at the margins of the tooth.
Q:
Can a veneer be repaired or must it be replaced?
A:
Q:
Can porcelain veneers be made in one day?
A:
Q:
Are Minimal prepped Veneers as strong as regular ones.
A:
Q:
Can upper and lower veneers be made on the same day.
A:
Q:
How thick are porcelain veneers vs lumineers?
A:
Q:
Can veneers be repaired if they fracture or must they be redone?
A:
Q:
Are veneers as strong as enamel?
A:
Q:
Does Bonding a veneer to a minimally prepped tooth with has more enamel stronger than on that is bonded to a tooth that has all the enamel removed and is in dentin?
A:
Q:
What is a E-max porcelain veneer and are they strong?
A:
Q:
No prep veneers are over 20 years old and minimal tooth structure is removed if needed.
A:
Q:
No prep veneers are know as lumineers or viveneers.
A:
Yes! Both are non-prepped . No tooth structure is removed is select cases.
Q:
Can veneers be made on top of old porcelain crown?
A:
Q:
What is the difference between a zirconium and a porcelain veneer?
A:
Q:
Porcelain veneers are much stronger and do not stain like veneers made of acrylic, resin/composite materials.
A:
Q:
Non-Tooth reduction porcelain veneers can be used to close spaces that still remain after clear brace treatment.
A:
Q:
Is a Felpspathic veneer as good as a Pressable veneer?
A:
The thickness of a non-prepped veneer( Lumineers / Vivaneers ) is between 0.3-0.5 mm . That of a prepped veneer ( E-Max) is 0.5- 1 mm of ceramic porcelain.
If anterior teeth have old discolored composite fillings they can be replaced with acceptable natural life-like looking permanent colored porcelain veneers.
The strength of porcelain veneers depends on the type of porcelain used: Feldspatic porcelain ( 65-75 mpa) , Leucite reinforced porcelain ( 160 - 180 mpa ) , Lithium disilicate reinforced porcelain ( E-max 350 - 450 mpa). The choice makes a difference.
Q:
If a patient is a Bruxer ( grinds teeth) will they be able to have veneers if desired ?
A:
Yes! If they wear a night guard.