What are porcelain veneers, and how do they work?

Drs. Edward and Dina Jackson of State Street Smiles in Hackensack, New Jersey, believe in providing a wide range of cosmetic treatments for patients to consider. This includes the creation and placement of composite and porcelain veneers. They are commonly known as dental veneers.

How do dental veneers work?

Dental veneers are thin shells of material, often made from porcelain or composite resin, that are custom-made and bonded to the front surface of teeth. Veneers are best used to improve the smile’s appearance by changing the teeth’ shape, size, and color. They are also used to correct:

Doctor with Lady Patient in Clinic
  • Gaps between teeth
  • Chips or cracks in a tooth’s surface
  • Discoloration or yellowing of the enamel
  • Misaligned or uneven teeth.

What can I expect when getting dental veneers?

The process for placing dental veneers typically involves two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, your dentist will discuss what you would like to change about your smile. Your dentist may also need to remove a small amount of tooth enamel from the front surface of each tooth to make room for the veneers and take impressions of your mouth. The impressions will be sent off to a laboratory for the veneers to be custom-made. At your second visit, your dentist will check the fit and color of the veneers before bonding them permanently to your teeth.

What about composite veneers?

Composite dental veneers are completed in one appointment. Composite resin bonding material is placed over the tooth, shaped into place, and then cured with a specialized light that hardens the resin. Drs. Edward and Dina Jackson will then file and polish the material to look completely natural over the tooth. Composite veneers cost less than porcelain veneers but do not last as long and need replacement sooner than other materials used.

Are dental veneers permanent?

Dental veneers are semi-permanent. Porcelain veneers will last up to 10 years with proper care and regular maintenance visits to the dentist. Composite veneers will often last several years but are more susceptible to staining than porcelain alternatives.

Am I a proper candidate for porcelain veneers?

Our team at State Street Smiles works with Hackensack, NJ, area patients who are ready to improve the appearance of their smile by disguising unwanted imperfections. If you live in or around Paramus, Maywood, and Teaneck, NJ communities, do not hesitate to contact us by calling (201) 389-2183 for an appointment.