Porcelain Veneers: What to Know
Porcelain veneers are a popular cosmetic option for patients seeking a refined, natural-looking smile. When fabricated by a high-quality dental laboratory that understands tooth morphology, shape, proportions, shades and translucency, veneers can create beautiful and highly lifelike results. They are also known for their durability and longevity, making them a good long-term solution for improving the appearance of teeth.
In select cases, patients may qualify for non-prep veneers, which require little to no alteration or cutting of the natural tooth. However, most veneer treatments involve some degree of tooth reduction to create enough space and thickness for the porcelain. This helps ensure strength, durability, and a natural final smile.
There are also considerations to keep in mind. Porcelain veneers are typically more expensive than composite bonding and often require numbing during the preparation process. If a veneer ever chips or breaks, a new one must be fabricated by a dental lab, which can involve some downtime before the restoration is replaced.