Dental Veneer FAQ

What is a dental veneer?

A dental veneer is a porcelain cover for stained, discolored teeth. Dentists can use veneers to correct slight misalignment of teeth, leaving patients with a straighter smile. Dental veneers are recommended for patients who want to improve the aesthetics of their teeth and do not require any dental crowns to repair damage to teeth.

What is the procedure for dental veneers?

Dental veneers are custom made to fit each tooth. The dentist will take a mould of the teeth and this impression is used to make the veneers. The veneers are then attached to teeth using a dental adhesive and are secured with laser. The procedure takes about 20 minutes per tooth to complete.

Are dental veneers painful?

The procedure to attach dental veneers is not painful. Patients may experience discomfort as the tooth enamel is prepared for the veneers, however the tooth will be numbed before the dentist files and reshapes the tooth. Attaching the veneers to the prepared tooth will cause no pain. Patients may experience sensitivity to hot and cold following the fitting of dental veneers.

Why are most dental veneers made from porcelain?

Porcelain dental veneers can be made to blend into the color of adjacent tooth enamel and the translucency of porcelain replicates the appearance of tooth enamel. Porcelain is strong and durable and will withstand pressure from chewing and biting without breaking.

Are there alternatives to a dental veneer?

Dental veneers are a cosmetic dentistry method used to improve the appearance of a patients smile. If a patients' teeth need to be strengthened or repaired, dental veneers are not a suitable option and dentists will advise the fitting of a dental crown instead of a veneer. A cosmetic dental alternative to porcelain veneers are Lumineers which provide an artificial coating to teeth that is removable.

What is the cost of dental veneers?

The cost of dental veneers ranges from $800-2000USD per tooth depending on the location of the dental clinic. Dental clinics in Mexico offer reduced costs for cosmetic dentistry work for patients who want to save money but receive the same standard of care as home. Dental veneers can cost less than 50% of the treatment price in the US or UK meaning improving the appearance of a full set of teeth with dental veneers is affordable in Mexico.

For more information about dental veneers, please read this comprehensive guide.