Veneers to Straighten Teeth: What You Need to Know

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A girl getting her dental veneers for straighter teeth appearance

Do you envy people who have beautiful white, straight teeth? Most people do. According to a study, almost three out of four Americans (73%) would be more inclined to trust someone with a great grin than someone with a beautiful profession, wardrobe, or vehicle. Have you been thinking about cosmetic dentistry? Porcelain veneers can help fix discolored and misaligned teeth to give you a better smile.

So, what are porcelain veneers, and when should you opt for them? Keep reading to find out everything you need to know.

What Are Porcelain Veneers?

Do you want a movie star smile? The easiest and best way to achieve that if you don't have one naturally is with veneers.

Dental porcelain veneers are a thin covering of porcelain that clings to the tooth's surface. They are designed for the person receiving them, including size, shape, and color. Porcelain veneers are thin shells made of tooth-colored porcelain that cover worn enamel, discoloration, chips, cracks, and spacing issues.

If you have any of these issues, then porcelain veneers might be an excellent option. They may be less intrusive than fitting a whole dental crown. Instead, only cover the tooth's surface. Consult with your dentist for advice.

Who Should Consider Getting Porcelain Veneers On Their Teeth?

Do you want to know if porcelain veneers would work for your teeth? While veneers are effective for many people, they are only appropriate for some. Anyone wishing to improve the appearance of their smile may be a candidate for veneers.

Your natural teeth's color, shape, and size can all be altered with veneers. Even if your teeth aren't perfect, veneers may be a wise option because they can cover flaws while allowing for a healthy gum and bone structure.

Dental veneers before and after
Dental veneers before and after

Veneers can help with the following dental problems:

  • Old, discolored fillings
  • Chipping
  • crooked smile
  • Staining
  • Dental gap
  • Crowding

An excellent cosmetic dentist can work with you to address any issues with your teeth and utilize porcelain veneers to create a beautiful result.

Types Of Veneers:

1. Porcelain Veneers

These veneers are popular among patients who desire to change their teeth' size, shape, or color while making only minor adjustments. Some of the advantages of porcelain veneers are as follows:

  • They are thinner than other veneers.
  • You can have a natural-looking smile.
  • Porcelain veneers can last up to 15 years if properly cared for.
  • In most circumstances, no natural tooth must be cut down.

Cons: Although porcelain veneers are long-lasting and realistic in appearance, they are more costly and require a specialized polishing paste. As an added downside, if they break, you'll have to buy a new one because fixing it isn't possible.

2. Ceramic Veneers

One of the most common forms of veneers, ceramic veneers are highly recommended by dental professionals and patients alike due to their:

  • Their ability to look like natural teeth.
  • Amazing Durability

Cons: Ceramic veneers might be more time-consuming to make than other varieties. You may also suffer tooth sensitivity following the procedure, which is temporary.

3. Composite Veneers

Some patients prefer composite veneers because they are less expensive. In most cases, they can be inserted in a single appointment with the dentist, saving you time and money. Among the various benefits of this sort of veneer are the following:

  • When compared to other veneers, they require less tooth reduction.
  • Compared to porcelain veneers, the price is often reduced by half.
  • Composite veneers of high quality can appear natural.

Cons: Composite veneers are less expensive, but they are also more prone to staining, breaking, and chipping. Composite veneers, as opposed to porcelain veneers, have a lifespan of about 5 years.

How Much Do They Cost?

In comparison to porcelain veneers, composite veneers cost approximately $250 to $1500 per tooth. As a same-day procedure, composite veneers do not require teeth reshaping.

While porcelain veneers start at $925 and can cost up to $2500 per tooth. Porcelain takes prep work. The natural teeth need reshaping before porcelain veneers are attached. Porcelain veneers are sculpted in a lab. This takes time and requires temporary wear while you wait.

Why Are Porcelain Veneers The Most Expensive?

The porcelain veneer procedure usually takes two visits after your initial consultation, depending on how much work your teeth require. The price range listed above takes into account many different factors.

How many teeth are being treated? Where are you located? Like most things, prices vary depending on which region of the country you reside in. Does your insurance cover any of the procedures? How specialized is the cosmetic dentist? How skilful is the ceramist in making the veneers?

So, if you're having veneers placed on 5 – 10 teeth, you can very likely pay up to $20,000 for your new smile.

Porcelain veneers being applied
Porcelain veneers being applied

How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?

Porcelain is a much stronger material than resin. Porcelain veneers last anywhere from 10 – 15 years compared to 5 to 7 for composite veneers. You have to weigh the cost and the durability of the two.

Doctor's Insight: A Holistic Approach to Smile Correction

Dr. Ather, a leading orthodontist, emphasizes that while veneers can address some aesthetic concerns, Dr. Ather highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach: "It often centres around the front six teeth, with a consideration that it may or may not improve bite function. Dr. Ather emphasizes that 'as orthodontists, our focus should encompass the entire case to enhance both the efficiency and aesthetic appeal of the bite.'"

ALIGNERCO: Your Partner in a Straighter, Healthier Smile

At ALIGNERCO, we understand the desire for a confident, radiant smile. While veneers can offer a cosmetic solution in some cases, clear aligners often provide a more comprehensive and long-term approach for achieving a straighter smile. Our dentist-designed clear aligner system is:

  • Affordable: We offer transparent pricing plans to make clear aligner treatment accessible.
  • Convenient: Skip frequent dental visits! Our at-home system allows you to receive your aligners discreetly.
  • Effective: Our clear aligners are designed to deliver noticeable results comfortably and conveniently.

To place your order or learn more about clear aligners call us today at
+1 (877) 271-7417

Now that you have the answer to "What are porcelain veneers?" Do you think they're the answer to your dental problems?

We can offer you another option if you're looking to hide misaligned teeth. We at ALIGNERCO provide a free assessment to determine whether you're a candidate for our clear aligners.

Check out how the process works. You'll be on your way to a better, more beautiful smile.

FAQs

Are veneers permanent for straightening teeth?

Veneers don't physically move your teeth, so the "straightening" effect is an illusion. While they can last for several years, they may need to be replaced eventually.

Do clear aligners hurt?

Clear aligners typically don't cause significant pain. You might experience some mild discomfort when switching to a new aligner set as your teeth adjust, but this usually subsides within a few days.

How much do veneers cost vs. clear aligners?

Veneer cost can vary depending on the number of teeth treated and the material used. Generally, clear aligner treatment can be a more affordable option.

Which option is right for me?

Consulting with a dentist is crucial to determine the best course of action for your specific needs. AlignerCo's free smile assessment can be a helpful starting point!

  • Meredith Barker

    Meredith Barker

    Content Contributor

    Meredith Barker is a renowned health science and public health writer with a proven track record of delivering insightful content for ALIGNERCO. A graduate with a degree in public health from the University of Michigan, Meredith has dedicated her career to spread dental health awareness. With over 5 years of... Read More

  • Authored by
  • Dr. Anas Athar

    Dr. Anas Athar

    Medical Reviewer

    Dr. Anas Athar is a highly sought-after orthodontist with nearly two decades of experience in dentistry. He is the only dual-trained Oral and Maxillofacial Radiologist and Orthodontist in Texas, with specialties in clear aligners, interceptive orthodontics, advanced dental imaging, dental sleep medicine, and more. Dr. Athar continually hones his skills... Read More

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