Dental Veneers - Price, Advantages & Types

Dental veneers are thin sheets of ceramic, applied to the surface of the teeth to change the appearance of the teeth. Ceramic veneers are the most popular, due to their natural appearance and biocompatible composition. They are an increasingly popular solution for dental restoration, due to their functional and aesthetic benefits. The treatment may be recommended if the patient has cracked, chipped or dull teeth, but also in cases of severe tooth discoloration, which cannot be corrected by whitening.

What are dental veneers?

Dental veneers are thin sheets of ceramic, applied to the front surface of the teeth to correct various imperfections such as discoloration, cracks, or uneven shape of the teeth. Veneers are customized to perfectly match natural teeth.

When do you need dental veneers?

Your dentist may recommend dental veneers in the following situations:

● Fractured or damaged teeth – Veneers restore the natural appearance of teeth affected by trauma or wear;

● Gaps between teeth (crooked teeth) – Veneers can close slightly enlarged interdental spaces, for a uniform smile;

● Imperfections in the shape or size of your teeth;

● Dental dyschromia – If your teeth have persistent discolorations or stains that cannot be removed by non-invasive methods, such as teeth whitening;

● Malocclusion – Veneers can help align your teeth for a more harmonious smile;

● Crooked teeth – Veneers can correct certain dental abnormalities to improve your overall appearance.

Dental Veneers - Advantages

Dental veneers offer numerous advantages for patients and have a positive impact on your self-image.

Dental veneers improve the aesthetic appearance of teeth

Dental veneers significantly improve the aesthetic appearance of teeth, as they correct various imperfections – discoloration, stains, interdental spaces or cracked teeth. Veneers contribute to a uniform and harmonious smile, adapted to the shape and shade of natural teeth.

Dental veneers are a minimally invasive and painless treatment

Another advantage of dental veneers is that they are a minimally invasive and painless treatment. During the procedure, only a small amount of tooth enamel is removed to make room for the veneers. The treatment is well tolerated by most patients, and discomfort is generally minimal.

Dental veneers save the natural structure of the tooth

Since only a small amount of tooth enamel is removed, dental veneers preserve the natural structure of the tooth. Thus, veneers become an effective aesthetic solution that does not affect the health of the natural tooth.

Dental veneers correct defects in the teeth

The fact that dental veneers correct defects in the teeth is another important advantage. They improve the appearance of teeth that are cracked, discolored, have spaces between them or are irregularly shaped, so that the patient can enjoy a smile that is as uniform and natural as possible.î

Dental veneers do not cause tooth sensitivity

Because the procedure involves removing a minimal amount of enamel, veneers do not affect the nerves of the tooth. Thus, most patients do not experience sensitivity after veneers are applied.

Dental veneers have a long-lasting resistance over time

Veneers are made of durable materials, such as ceramics. They are resistant to wear, do not fade or stain, for a beautiful and functional smile in the long term.

Dental Veneers - Disadvantages

This treatment has some disadvantages, but they are much less significant compared to the advantages. Among them, it should be remembered that:

● Once applied, the veneers cannot be removed;

● Veneers can be replaced with new ones, but the patient cannot return to natural teeth.

● They cannot be repaired if they crack;

● There is a short period of adjustment to the new teeth;

● Veneers are not removable, but represent a permanent solution.

Types of dental veneers by material - Composite, ceramic, zirconium

There are several types of dental veneers, depending on the material they are made of. The most commonly used materials are composite, ceramic and zirconium.

Composite dental veneers

Composite (the material also used for fillings) is usually used in temporary solutions or for demonstrations, not for definitive or permanent veneers. This type of material does not offer an aesthetic appearance as good as other materials and is not very resistant over time, although it performs the function of a normal tooth.

Ceramic dental veneers

Ceramics are among the most commonly used materials in dentistry, due to their natural and aesthetic appearance. Ceramic veneers have an appearance very similar to natural teeth, both in terms of color, texture and transparency. There are several color variations that allow the patient to choose the shade that best matches their natural teeth. In addition, ceramic is a material that is very resistant to fractures and other physical damage. They can be applied by grinding a small layer of tooth enamel or without grinding.

EMAX Dental Veneers

EMAX dental veneers are made of lithium disilicate, a special type of ceramic (pressed ceramic), appreciated for its exceptional durability, natural appearance and superior translucency. EMAX veneers are very thin and cover the front surface of the teeth, correcting various imperfections, such as discoloration, incorrect alignment, irregular tooth shapes, cavities at the base of the tooth, spaces between the teeth, unsightly fillings and dental stains.

Zirconium Dental Veneers

Zirconium veneers are a popular choice for patients who already have dental work made of this material. Zirconium is a very aesthetic material, but unlike ceramic veneers, the available shades are not as varied. Zirconium veneers offer an immaculate white appearance, which can seem a little shallow. However, they are distinguished by their exceptional resistance and are used only after prior tooth preparation.

Types of dental veneers according to technique - PREP/NO PREP

Dental veneers are also classified according to the application/cementation technique, into two main types: PREP veneers and NO PREP veneers.

PREP dental veneers

PREP veneers are applied after preparing the tooth enamel, with a minimum degree of grinding, to allow for better adhesion. In this process, fine grooves are created in the enamel, with a depth of approximately 0.2-0.6 mm, or by superficially scratching the tooth enamel. PREP veneers do not significantly affect the structure of the natural tooth.

NO PREP Dental Veneers (No Grinding)

No grinding or NO PREP veneers refer to extremely fine ceramic sheets, with a maximum thickness of 0.3 mm, which are applied directly to the tooth surface, without removing the natural enamel. They are ideal for patients who want a minimally invasive solution. In the case of NO PREP veneers, the application process is much simpler and faster. This type of veneers are much more recommended for correcting minor tooth imperfections, such as discoloration or interdental spaces.

What is the difference between dental veneers and a dental implant?

The main difference between the two treatments is that dental implants are a solution for replacing missing teeth and improving dental functionality, while veneers are used to improve the aesthetic appearance of the smile.

Dental implants are inserted into the jawbone and function as artificial roots on which dental crowns, bridges or dentures are applied. Implants help restore the smile, but also maintain the bone structure. They are very resistant and behave similarly to natural teeth, improving chewing and speaking function.

In contrast, dental veneers are thin sheets of ceramic that are applied to the front of natural teeth to improve their aesthetic appearance. Unlike implants, veneers do not replace natural teeth, but only improve their appearance. Also, their application is not a complex intervention.

How dental veneers are put - Treatment stages

Inserting dental veneers involves several essential stages.

Dental consultation

The first step in installing dental veneers is a detailed consultation with the dentist. He examines the patient's teeth, identifies any problems (caries, periodontal disease, trauma, etc.) that could affect the success of the treatment. At this stage, material options are discussed and the patient's expectations regarding the color, shape and size of the veneers are established.

Treatment of existing conditions

Treatment of existing conditions is the next step before applying dental veneers. At this stage, the dentist ensures that the teeth are healthy and ready for the procedure. Any pre-existing dental problems must be treated before installing the veneers, to ensure a solid and healthy foundation.

Preparing the teeth before applying the veneers

This stage applies only to PREP dental veneers. The procedure is irreversible and involves the removal of a thin layer of enamel (between 0.2 mm and 0.5 mm). After grinding, teeth may become sensitive, but patients can wear temporary veneers to protect them until permanent veneers are ready.

Applying temporary veneers (PREP veneers)

Applying temporary veneers is a distinct step in the case of PREP veneers. After the teeth have been polished, the dentist can apply temporary veneers to protect the teeth until the permanent veneers are made in the laboratory.

Cementing the definitive veneers

Cementing the dental veneers is done when the permanent veneers are ready. The dentist will apply them to the natural teeth, using special adhesives, to give stability to the dental veneers. The procedure takes depending on the number of teeth requiring treatment.

How much do dental veneers cost?

The cost of dental veneers varies depending on the material chosen, the complexity of the procedure, the number of teeth treated, additional treatments and the dental clinic where the procedure is performed.

Dental Veneers - Price

The prices for dental veneers at the DentArbre Dental Clinic are as follows:

For more details about treatment prices, please contact us. Our team can provide you with all the information regarding how much dental veneers cost.

How long does it take to apply dental veneers?

Usually, the installation of dental veneers is done in two sessions, and the process lasts between 7 and 10 days. In the first session, impressions are taken and, if necessary, teeth are polished. In the second session, the permanent veneers are cemented.

How long do dental veneers last?

The lifespan of dental veneers depends greatly on the material they are made of. Composite veneers have a lifespan of approximately 2-5 years, while zirconium and ceramic veneers can last between 15 and 20 years or even a lifetime, if properly maintained. Proper oral hygiene is important to extend the life of your dental veneers, as it prevents their deterioration and maintains the health of your natural tooth.

What NOT to eat after dental veneers

After dental veneers are fitted, it is recommended to avoid the following foods:

● Hard foods (nuts, chips, bars, pretzels, ice, etc.);

● Very dry foods (toast, hazelnuts, dry biscuits

● Very hot or very cold foods and drinks;

● Foods that put pressure on the veneers (chewing gum, candy, caramels, etc.).

Dental veneer maintenance - Recommendations

To keep your dental veneers in good condition in the long term, it is important to follow some recommendations:

● Maintain proper oral hygiene - brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to prevent the accumulation of bacterial plaque and maintain gum health;

● Avoid foods that can damage your veneers;

● Use a soft-bristled toothbrush;

● Follow regular dental check-ups to detect any problems early and maintain optimal oral health.

Photo source: Unsplash

Bibliography:

· my.clevelandclinic.org, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23522-dental-veneers, accessed 17.12.2024;

· www.bupa.co.uk, https://www.bupa.co.uk/dental/dental-care/treatments/fillings-crowns-veneers/veneers, accessed 17.12.2024;