What Are Dental Veneers?

Veneers fall under the category of cosmetic dentistry. They have been in use for almost 100 years and are forever evolving. With a number of permanent and temporary alternatives, there’s sure to be a type of veneer that matches your unique needs and desires.

Veneers have many different purposes. Sometimes, they’re used as an alternative to braces

to correct crooked teeth. Other times, they are medically necessary and protect damaged teeth. Veneers can also be part of a cosmetic solution to perfect your smile.  Below, we’ve listed some of the most common types of veneers, including their respective pros and cons.

Porcelain Veneers

When you think of veneers, porcelain is probably what you think of.  This style is known for its durability, appearance, customizable features and stain resistance.

The installation of porcelain requires an invasive procedure that isn’t required for all veneers. This type also tends to have a higher price tag up front. 

Ceramic Veneers

Looking for a less invasive solution with the same long-lasting advertising? Ceramic veneers are custom fit for the tooth and require much less tooth preparation. These are also less expensive up front.

While still durable, ceramic veneers aren’t as long-lasting as porcelain. They require more maintenance, too, which means you’ll spend more money over the years.

Bonded Veneers

This style of veneer bonds a composite material to your front teeth and mimics the look of real teeth. These are more cost-effective than traditional porcelain veneers. 

The main trade-off for this style is the required maintenance. While typically lasting 5 to 10 years, bonded veneers are prone to chipping and require touch-ups. Additionally, there are fewer color options, and the veneers are more prone to staining. 

How Much Do Veneers Cost?

As you’ve seen, there are several types of veneers, each with different benefits and durability. Often, the longer-lasting ones are more expensive up front. 

Does Dental Insurance Cover Veneers?

It depends.  While insurance companies don’t completely rule out the possibility of covering the cost of veneers, there are only a few reasons why they might decide to offer coverage. 

If your reason for getting veneers is solely cosmetic, there is a very little chance you qualify for insurance coverage. If this procedure is medically necessary, you have a much higher chance of your insurance covering some of the cost. Sometimes, these benefits are only included if you have a more premium package of dental coverage. 

Our best recommendation is to talk directly with your insurance provider to get the most accurate information for your situation.

Comparison Of Dental Procedures 

There are a few other dental procedures on the market that offer results similar to those that veneers offer. Among the closest comparisons are crowns, inlays and onlays. All have one thing in common: They all have something to do with the integrity and appearance of your teeth. 

Basic Definitions

Inlays, onlays and veneers all refer to a dental solution that covers a portion of the tooth. Inlays cover the chewing surface of your teeth; onlays do the same while also covering one of the raised edges surrounding the chewing surface. Veneers tend to only cover the front of your teeth. Crowns are the only option that covers the entire tooth. 

Cosmetic Or Treatment?

Crowns are generally used only for treatments and to help teeth that are weak, worn down or otherwise damaged. Inlays and onlays can be cosmetic, but are most often used to repair damaged teeth and protect teeth prone to cavities. Veneers are most commonly cosmetic, but can be treatment-related and often offer the best solution if many of the patient’s teeth are damaged. 

Permanence

Veneers are the only option that offer a permanent solution. If you are interested in another temporary option to restore the look of your smile but are missing some teeth, dentures may be the best option for you.

Investing In Your Smile

As you can see, there are a lot of details that go into your smile. At Springfield Dental Group, we offer a range of cosmetic services, including porcelain veneers, teeth whitening and Invisalign. Did one of these types of procedures catch your eye? Find out if veneers are right for you! Interested in an appointment? Contact us online and take the next step toward a smile you love.