Veneers

Veneers are a dental procedure in which a covering is placed over the outside of the tooth. Veneers are usually only placed on teeth that are visible when talking or smile. There are two types of procedures: direct or indirect.

The direct technique usually involves placing composite resin on the outside of the tooth using bonding. This material costs less than porcelain but tends to wear out and often needs to be redone, which could end up costing more.

The indirect technique usually involves two appointments because the veneers will be fabricated at a dental laboratory or using our CEREC technique. At the first appointment the teeth are prepared, impressions taken and the teeth are given a temporary covering. In two to three weeks the veneers are back from the laboratory, the temporaries are removed, and the veneers are bonded to the teeth. The laboratory-fabricated veneers are usually made using porcelain or pressed ceramic and are very esthetic.

The advantage of veneers versus crowns is that much less tooth material is removed making the procedure generally less uncomfortable. Veneers are recommended for teeth that have large fillings or moderately darkened color change.