Porcelain veneers: what they can fix, and what to know before you decide

If you’re unhappy with the color, shape or size of your front teeth, porcelain veneers can change the look of your smile in just a few visits. They are one of the most versatile treatments in cosmetic dentistry, but they are also a long-term commitment, so it helps to understand how they work before you decide.

What veneers are

A veneer is a thin shell of dental porcelain, custom-made for each tooth and bonded to its front surface. Because porcelain reflects light much like natural enamel, well-made veneers look like your own teeth, only better aligned and more even in color.

What veneers can fix

• Stains that whitening can’t remove, such as deep or gray discoloration.
• Chipped or worn teeth.
• Teeth that are uneven, too short or oddly shaped.
• Small gaps between the front teeth.
• Slightly crooked teeth, when you prefer not to have orthodontic treatment.

Veneers aren’t the answer for everything. Teeth with active decay or gum disease need treatment first, and significant crowding or bite problems are usually better corrected with Clear Aligners.

What treatment involves

1. Consultation. We examine your teeth, gums and bite, talk about what you’d like to change, and look at how your smile fits your face. This is the time to bring photos of smiles you like, or anything you don’t like about your own.
2. Preparation. A thin layer of enamel, often less than a millimeter, is gently removed from the front of each tooth so the veneers sit naturally and don’t look bulky. We then take impressions, and you can wear temporary veneers while the final ones are made.
3. Bonding. We check the fit, shape and color of the finished veneers with you, then bond them permanently to your teeth.

The whole process usually takes two or three visits over a few weeks.

Things to know before you decide

• Veneers are permanent. Because enamel is removed, the teeth will always need a veneer or other covering. That is why careful planning matters.
• Choose your color first. Porcelain doesn’t stain, but it also doesn’t respond to whitening. If you’d like brighter natural teeth as well, whiten before your veneers are made so everything matches.
• They last many years, not forever. With good care, porcelain veneers often last 10 to 15 years or longer before they need replacing.
• Protect them. Avoid biting hard objects such as ice, pens or fingernails. If you grind or clench your teeth, a custom night guard helps protect your veneers while you sleep.

Alternatives to consider

For small chips or gaps, bonding with tooth-colored composite can be a quicker and less expensive option that removes little or no enamel, though it is less stain-resistant and doesn’t last as long as porcelain. For discoloration alone, whitening may be all you need. We’ll explain the trade-offs so you can choose what suits you.

Start with a smile consultation

Dr. Winter will look at your teeth and your goals, and help you decide whether veneers or another option is the best fit. Learn more about Porcelain Veneers at SmileNY Dental, or contact us to schedule a consultation.