Dental Blog

Veneers: The Secret is Out!

Quick Summary

Veneers are thin shells fitted over the front surfaces of teeth to hide stained, chipped, crooked or misshapen teeth. They are most commonly made from composite or porcelain, and the two behave differently. Composite is typically lower in cost but lasts around two years or less and is susceptible to staining. Porcelain coordinates well with existing teeth, lasts five to ten years, and does not stain.

For people who don’t feel confident about showing their teeth when smiling, dental veneers provide a great way to restore self-esteem and quickly create beautiful smiles. No longer only for the rich and famous, the secret of transforming smiles with veneers is out for everyone to enjoy the benefits.

Veneers are thin shells that go over the front surfaces of your teeth to hide imperfections. They are customized just for you so that they look very natural and appealing. Veneers cover problems like stained, chipped, crooked, or misshapen teeth. The most common materials that veneers are made from are composite or porcelain. Here are the details about each of these types of veneers.

Composite

  • Has an opaque finish, but it’s difficult to match the color of your existing tooth enamel color
  • Lifespan is usually two years or less
  • Susceptible to staining because of its porous characteristics
  • Requires careful and consistent maintenance to keep them looking good as long as possible
  • Typically lower in cost than other types of veneers

Porcelain

  • Has an opaque finish that appears natural and coordinates well with the color and texture of existing teeth
  • Lifespan is usually from five to ten years
  • Does not stain
  • Requires good dental hygiene for the best results

Whichever type of dental veneers you might select, chances are good that you will be glad you chose to restore your smile in this way. People won’t even realize that underneath the veneers you have crooked, discolored, uneven, or chipped teeth. Your secret will be safe, thanks to the technology of dental veneers.

Do you live in Billerica or the surrounding area? Our team is ready to help you achieve your smile goals. Schedule your appointment today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do composite veneers last compared with porcelain?

The lifespan of composite veneers is usually two years or less. Porcelain veneers usually last from five to ten years.

Do composite veneers stain?

Composite is susceptible to staining because of its porous characteristics, and it requires careful, consistent maintenance to keep it looking good for as long as possible. Porcelain does not stain.

Which material looks more natural?

Composite has an opaque finish, but it is difficult to match the colour of your existing tooth enamel. Porcelain has an opaque finish that appears natural and coordinates well with the colour and texture of existing teeth.

Merry Dental, 337 Boston Rd, Billerica, MA 01821. 978-404-5400. Serving Billerica, Lowell, Chelmsford, Tewksbury, Burlington and Bedford.

Medical disclaimerThis article is for general information only and is not dental or medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Individual results vary. Speak with a qualified dental professional about your own oral health.