A dental Veneer is a thin layer of material that is placed over a tooth to improve its appearance. Veneers can be made out of porcelain or composite material. They cover the front of your teeth and give them a new shape and color. In cases where your bite is normal but your teeth do not have a pleasant appearance, Veneers can give you a more attractive smile.
A dentist can make Composite Veneers in-office and apply them directly to the teeth. They last about 4 to 5 years on average and can cost anywhere from $500 to $1500 per tooth. They can be fabricated as a whole piece, or done as a build-up of composite material.
A lab makes Porcelain Veneers to the specifications of your dentist. They are fabricated as whole pieces and bonded to your teeth with special adhesive which is hardened with a curing light. They last from 10 to 20 years and can cost anywhere from $800 to $2,000 per tooth.
It’s important to know that the dentist needs to remove some of the enamel from each tooth before applying the veneers. Sometimes it’s only a small amount, and sometimes it’s a much larger amount, which gives your natural teeth a nubby appearance before the Veneers cover them. Before getting Veneers, ask your dentist how much enamel will need to be removed from your natural teeth.
After you get Veneers, you brush and floss your teeth the same way as usual. Although porcelain is stain-resistant, you should try to avoid stain-inducing foods and drinks, such as coffee, red wine, and curry sauce.