Types of Veneers We Offer
Not all veneers are the same, and the right type depends on your goals, your teeth, and the amount of change you want. Our team will walk you through the choices and recommend the one that fits you best. Here is a closer look.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are the longest lasting and most aesthetically pleasing type of veneer. They are created in a dental laboratory to the exact specifications of our doctor and mimic the look of natural enamel by using multiple thin layers of porcelain. The size, color, shape, and fit are fully customized. They are an excellent choice for patients who want a dramatic, durable result.
Composite Veneers
Composite veneers are made from composite resin and may be made in the dental office or in a dental laboratory. They can change the color, size, or shape of a tooth and can be an effective solution for less extensive cosmetic improvements. Composite veneers are fully customized, like porcelain veneers, but the material is somewhat susceptible to staining and does not last as long as porcelain.
Instant Veneers
Instant veneers are prefabricated resin shells that come in a range of sizes and shapes but are not customized to your teeth. We do not recommend instant veneers because they do not provide the appearance, quality, or durability of custom veneers.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Veneers?
Veneers work best when teeth and gums are healthy and the goals are cosmetic. A thorough exam helps us confirm the best approach. You may be a good candidate if any of these situations describe you.
- You have stained or discolored teeth that do not respond well to whitening
- You have chipped or worn teeth you would like to restore
- You have small gaps or slightly uneven spacing between your teeth
- Your teeth look uneven in length, size, or shape
- You have slightly misaligned or slightly crooked teeth and want a cosmetic solution
- You have healthy gums and no untreated decay
- You are ready for a long term improvement and understand how veneers are placed
Some conditions call for caution. Active gum disease, untreated cavities, or heavy grinding and clenching should be addressed first, since they can affect how long veneers last. If you grind your teeth, a custom night guard can help protect your new smile. For patients who need extensive rebuilding, we also offer full mouth rehabilitation.
From Smile Design to Final Bonding, Your Veneer Journey
Getting veneers is a carefully planned process that usually takes more than one visit, so every detail can be refined. Taking time at each stage helps the final result look and feel natural. Here is what you can expect.
01
Consultation and Smile Planning
We talk about the changes you want, examine your teeth and gums, and use digital images to discuss the shape, size, and shade that will suit you.
02
Preparing the Teeth
For most veneers, a thin layer of enamel, usually less than one millimeter, is gently removed from the areas the veneer will cover. This is what allows your veneers to fit seamlessly.
03
Digital Impressions and Shade Selection
We capture a precise digital impression of your prepared teeth and select the exact shade, so your veneers match the look you want.
04
Custom Fabrication
Your veneers are crafted by our laboratory partner, using multiple thin layers of porcelain to mimic the look of natural enamel. Temporary protection may be placed while you wait.
05
Try In and Final Adjustments
At your next visit, we check the fit, color, and shape, and make any refinements before your veneers are attached.
06
Bonding and Final Polish
Each veneer is attached with a thin but strong bonding material, which is hardened with a specialized light. We then polish your veneers and check your bite so everything feels comfortable and natural.
Benefits of Dental Veneers
A well designed veneer does more than hide a flaw. It restores harmony to the smile and gives patients confidence that lasts. Here are some of the reasons patients choose veneers.
- A natural, lifelike appearance. Veneers are made to mimic the look of natural enamel, with color and translucency matched to your teeth.
- Several concerns solved at once. Color, shape, length, and small gaps can often be improved in the same treatment.
- Fully customized results. The size, color, shape, and fit are tailored to your smile.
- Stain resistance. Porcelain resists staining from coffee, tea, and red wine far better than natural enamel.
- Long lasting results. Porcelain veneers are the longest lasting type, and many patients enjoy them for years.
- A conservative approach for the result. Only a thin layer of enamel is usually removed, compared with the larger reduction needed for a crown.
- A boost in confidence. Many patients feel more comfortable smiling, speaking, and being photographed after their treatment.
Craftsmanship Behind Every Veneer
A beautiful veneer starts with accurate information and skilled hands. We use modern technology to capture the details of your teeth and work with a respected laboratory partner to create your restorations. Here is what goes into your result.
- 3D digital impressions. Our scanner captures your teeth comfortably and accurately, which can reduce the number of visits. You can learn more about our digital impressions and dental technology.
- Digital intraoral cameras. These let you see detailed images of your own teeth, so you can better understand your options.
- A US based laboratory partner. NuCraft’s certified dental artisans handcraft restorations in the USA using FDA approved materials, with an artistic approach to cosmetic dentistry.
- Careful shade and shape selection. Color, translucency, and contours are chosen to complement your smile and your face.
Understanding Veneer Costs and Financing
Veneers are an investment in your smile, and we want you to feel comfortable with the cost before you begin. The price depends on the type of veneer, the number of teeth, and the complexity of your case. Veneers placed for cosmetic reasons are usually not covered by dental insurance, although some plans may help in certain situations. Our team will review your benefits, explain your options, and give you a clear estimate before treatment begins. We accept all dental insurance plans except Medicaid, we are in network with Delta Dental Premier, and we offer financing through Sunbit for treatment that insurance does not fully cover.
Ready for a Smile You Love to Share
A veneer consultation is a chance to talk about the smile you have always wanted and learn what is possible for you. Our team at Godfrey Dentistry in Somersworth, NH will listen to your goals, explain each option honestly, and guide you through every step. Schedule your veneer consultation today.
Book Your Veneer ConsultationFrequently Asked Questions About Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are thin, custom made shells that cover the front of a tooth and slightly wrap around the sides and the biting edge. They are used to improve the color, shape, size, and length of teeth, and to close small gaps or hide chips. Veneers can be placed on one tooth or several, depending on your goals. Porcelain and composite are the two main types, and each is customized to look natural.
Porcelain veneers are the longest lasting type, and many last ten years or more with good care. Composite veneers do not last as long, since the material is somewhat susceptible to staining and wear. How long your veneers last depends on your oral hygiene, your habits, and whether you grind your teeth. Regular checkups help us catch small concerns early and extend the life of your veneers.
Most patients find veneers comfortable. During tooth preparation, we use local anesthetic when needed to keep you at ease while a thin layer of enamel is removed. Some sensitivity to hot and cold is common for a short time afterward and usually fades on its own. If you have any lingering discomfort, let our team know so we can help.
In most cases, a thin layer of enamel, usually less than one millimeter, is removed to make room for the veneer. Because enamel does not grow back, veneers are considered a permanent treatment. The preparation is much more conservative than the reshaping needed for a crown. Our team will explain what to expect for your teeth before you decide.
Porcelain veneers are made in a dental laboratory from multiple thin layers of porcelain, and they are the longest lasting and most natural looking option. Composite veneers are made from resin, may be made in the office or in a laboratory, and are a good fit for less extensive improvements. Composite is somewhat more susceptible to staining and does not last as long as porcelain. We will recommend the right type based on your goals and your teeth.
Yes, veneers can close gaps, restore chipped teeth, correct uneven lengths, and improve teeth that are slightly misaligned or slightly crooked. They work best for cosmetic changes and are not a substitute for moving teeth with orthodontic treatment when the misalignment is more significant. Our team will explain the best path for your smile.
Custom veneers are designed to match the color, shape, and translucency of your natural teeth, so they look lifelike. Porcelain resists stains very well, while composite can stain from coffee, tea, tobacco, and some foods. Good home care and regular cleanings help keep any veneer looking fresh. If you plan to whiten your smile, it is best to do so before getting veneers so the shade can be matched.
Veneers placed for cosmetic reasons are usually not covered by dental insurance, although some plans may help in certain situations. We accept all dental insurance plans except Medicaid and are in network with Delta Dental Premier, and we offer financing through Sunbit. Our team will review your benefits and explain your costs before treatment begins. You can learn more on our Insurance and Financing page.
