Because veneers are permanently bonded to your tooth, they cannot be removed. This is an irreversible procedure that requires a thin layer of enamel to be permanently drilled away from your teeth. After your treatment is complete, you will need to take proper care of your veneers and replace them if they break or become dislodged.
The longevity of your veneers depends on how well you take care of them, but most patients can maintain the quality and function of their veneers for up to 20 years. Your veneers will wear down over time, so you may need to repair or replace individual veneers.
Brushing and flossing your teeth with care is the best way to prolong the lifespan of your veneers. Be sure to see your dentist every six months for a teeth cleaning and oral exam. Avoid doing things that could damage or dislodge your veneers, such as chewing hard foods with your front teeth, or using your teeth to open items.
Made of ceramic porcelain materials, veneers are crafted to look and feel just like your natural tooth. Porcelain is very similar to enamel in hardness and translucence, making it an ideal durable option. Plus, porcelain can be matched to the exact color of your teeth, allowing it to blend in with the rest of your smile.
Some veneers are also made out of resin. These are typically only used as temporary veneers because resin does not look as natural and is not nearly as durable compared to porcelain ceramic veneers.
While veneers and Lumineers are almost the same, but Lumineers are much thinner than traditional veneers. This is because they are made out of a special, proprietary ceramic material that is only about 0.2mm thick. Due to their thin nature, Lumineers can often be placed without trimming your existing enamel. This is why they’re often called “no-prep” or “minimal-prep” veneers. Traditional veneers, on the other hand, are 0.5mm thick and require the removal of enamel to fit onto your tooth.
Veneers will vary in cost depending on a multitude of factors, including how many teeth you're covering up, your oral health, and the location of each tooth. Contact our dentist in Brookfield to get a cosmetic consultation and an accurate cost estimate. During your consultation, Dr. Russo can take a look at your mouth, assess your oral health, and provide a quote for care.