HOW LONG DO PORCELAIN VENEERS LAST?

Porcelain veneers bonded to the enamel of teeth are very strong and can be expected to last 10 to 15 years before they need replacement.  However, just like natural teeth, veneers can crack and chip which could shorten their lifespan.  Patients who clench or grind their teeth and don’t wear a nightguard cannot expect a good long term result with porcelain veneers.

WHAT DO PORCELAIN VENEERS COST?

Porcelain veneers can cost up to $2000 per tooth.  When comparing veneers costs between general dentists and those of a prosthodontist one can expect to pay a higher fee.  The most expensive dental work that patients pay is work that has to be done twice, so be careful in choosing veneers based on initial costs alone.

ARE THERE DIFFERENT KINDS OF PORCELAIN VENEERS?

Porcelain veneers can be made out of several different ceramic materials.  Pressed glass is the most common type and the individual coloring is painted on the outside of the veneer before firing in a high temperature furnace.  These types of veneers are strong but can appear somewhat monolithic.  The most expensive type of porcelain veneer is made of hand layered feldspathic porcelain and has color and depth that is difficult to tell from a natural tooth.  The color of these veneers comes from deep within the veneer.

IS IT PAINFUL TO GET PORCELAIN VENEERS?

Of course, every patient’s perception of pain is different, but the majority of patients do not find the clinical procedures required for porcelain veneers to be painful. Typically only .5mm of the tooth enamel is removed to make room for the porcelain veneer and other than some vibration, you can expect to feel very little discomfort during all of the procedures.

WHAT APPOINTMENTS ARE NEEDED FOR PORCELAIN VENEERS?

Your first dental veneers appointment should be one that includes photographs of your existing condition, accurate moulds of your teeth, and a discussion of what you would like in creating your new smile.  There should be a follow up appointment to discuss the treatment plan and fees and to determine if your expectations can be achieved. Your third visit would be to prepare your teeth and make a mould for your new veneers.  Provisional veneers will also be placed to serve you until the final veneers are made. The final visit is to bond in your approved veneers.