A smile speaks volumes. It's a universal language that transcends barriers, conveying warmth, confidence, and approachability. In fact, a professional survey showed that 75% of people say that a smile is the first physical trait they notice in others. Unfortunately, 3 in 5 people surveyed also admitted to "hating" how their smile looks. For some, dental imperfections like discoloration, chips, or misalignment can hinder their confidence. Some of these imperfections can be solved with braces or clear aligners, but for others, more intensive intervention is needed. Enter veneers – the secret behind many Hollywood smiles and a popular solution for achieving that perfect grin.

What are veneers?

Veneers are a cosmetic treatment where thin shells made of your choice of material, custom-designed to cover the front surface of teeth. The shells are bonded to the teeth, effectively changing their color, shape, size, or length. Veneers offer a versatile cosmetic solution for a range of dental imperfections, providing a natural-looking enhancement.

Why do people get veneers?

The reasons for getting veneers are deeply personal and vary from one individual to the next. There are several common reasons to seek this treatment.

• cosmetic enhancement -a complete overhaul to achieve a brighter and more symmetrical smile.

• correcting misalignments or minor irregularities -veneers are not a substitute for orthodontic treatment but some veneer materials can address minor misalignments or irregularities in tooth shape or size.

• repairing chipped or damaged teeth -veneers offer a minimally invasive way to restore appearance or functionality of teeth damaged by accidents, injuries, or general wear and tear.

What are the different types of veneers?

There are three main types of veneers:

Porcelain veneers

Made from a mix of kaolin, quartz, and feldspar, porcelain veneers are known for their durability, natural appearance, and stain-resistant properties. They are custom-made to match the color, texture, and translucency of natural teeth and are highly resistant to staining, making them an ideal choice for individuals who want to maintain a bright white smile. Porcelain veneers are the most expensive option but are the longest lasting with a lifespan of between 10 to 15 years. Usually, the enamel of the original teeth will need to be shaved down and contoured so that porcelain veneers can be installed. If damaged, the veneer can not be repaired and must be replaced.

Ceramic veneers

Ceramic veneers are the most popular material, they are similar to porcelain veneers in appearance and durability, though they are more prone to chipping. As the name suggests, they are made from ceramic materials like zirconia and are custom-made to match the hue of the patient's choice. They require significantly less preparation and contouring to the original teeth. While they are less expensive than porcelain veneers they have a lesser lifespan of up to 10 years.

Composite resin veneers

Composite veneers are made from a tooth-colored resin material that is directly applied and sculpted onto the teeth. Unlike porcelain and ceramic veneers, which are fabricated in a laboratory, composite veneers can be applied in a single visit. They are significantly more affordable than their porcelain and ceramic counterparts, but they do not offer the same level of durability or stain resistance. They require little to no preparation to the original teeth and therefore can usually be removed to revert the teeth back to their original state, a safety net not offered by porcelain or ceramic veneers.

Which veneers are best?

Each type has its unique advantages and considerations. A qualified cosmetic dentist can help you to explore your options and choose the veneer type that best suits your needs, preferences, and budget. Need a dentist? We can help. Sign up here and we'll connect you with one of our top-rated, highly vetted dental partners who are ready to help you achieve the smile of your dreams.