How do I know if veneers or another cosmetic procedure is right for me?

Determining whether porcelain veneers or another cosmetic procedure is right for you begins with a consultation with one of our qualified dentists. During this visit, they can evaluate your teeth, gums, bite, and overall oral health while also discussing your goals for improving your smile. Veneers are often recommended for concerns such as discoloration, chips, minor misalignment, or uneven tooth shape. However, other treatments, including teeth whitening, Invisalign®, cosmetic bonding, or dental crowns, may be more appropriate depending on your needs. Our team can explain the benefits of each option and create a personalized treatment plan designed to achieve natural-looking results while supporting your long-term oral health.

Do porcelain veneers hurt?

Your well-being is of primary concern. Depending on the type of porcelain veneers utilized to achieve your goals, there may be a small amount of tooth reshaping or reduction required. In this instance, we will provide a numbing agent to minimize pain, and most patients report little discomfort. Some veneers, including composite veneers, typically require little to no drilling or reduction, making the procedure quicker and more pleasant.

How long does the procedure take?

The process of veneers begins with a consultation. Once you are ready to proceed with your treatment, the team will take molds of your mouth and send them out to the lab technician for the design of your veneers. After the design is returned, our doctor will prepare your teeth for the “trial smile.” You will wear your trial smile restorations in order to give feedback on your likes and dislikes. After you approve the final design, your veneers will be fabricated by the skilled lab technician. You will return for the cementation of your veneers followed by any final adjustments you may need once they are cemented in place.

Do dental veneers require special care?

Excellent oral hygiene is strongly recommended for everyone, regardless of whether they have porcelain veneers. Routine brushing and flossing can help maintain the beauty and function of your dental veneers for years to come.

Are porcelain veneers reversible?

In general, porcelain veneers are not reversible. The exception to this would be no-prep veneers. Not everyone is a candidate for no-prep veneers. If you would like to determine whether a no-prep veneer procedure is right for your needs, please schedule a consultation here at our practice.

Do porcelain veneers stain?

Porcelain veneers made of high-quality ceramic material are considered stain-resistant, remaining white and bright even when exposed to substances that would discolor natural tooth material.

Can I get just one veneer or will I need a whole set of veneers?

It is possible to receive one veneer to address a single tooth that may be compromising smile aesthetics. For patients who desire a full smile makeover, a minimum of 8 to 10 veneers are usually recommended; however, the number of veneers necessary is generally dependent on the condition of your teeth and your overall goals. Your dentist can discuss the best veneers solution for your needs when you come in for your consultation.

Will my teeth feel sensitive after treatment with porcelain veneers?

Immediately following porcelain veneer treatment, there can be an expected period of time where your teeth experience a hot and cold sensation that may cause some discomfort. The porcelain veneer procedure involves removing portions of enamel from the targeted teeth so cases of sensitivity on the teeth is normal. Patients will have to allow for a short period of time for the teeth and gums to heal before your mouth becomes completely accustomed to your veneers. Your gums will likely also experience some form of soreness that usually dissipates within a few days following treatment.

How can I protect my porcelain veneers from damage?

Luckily, porcelain veneers can be replaced if damage occurs to them. However, many would prefer to avoid damage altogether and go the extra mile to protect their newly placed dental veneers. To further protect your veneers, patients can wear a mouthguard at night or during physical activities to avoid any unnecessary chipping or cracking due to blunt force. Additionally, patients should keep up with routine brushing and flossing as well as yearly dental appointments so that a dentist can monitor the progress of your veneers and make any necessary adjustments.

What happens if I need to replace a veneer?

Mirroring the initial process of placing your original and now-likely-damaged veneer, the process of replacing a veneer will be similar to your first procedure. Your dentist will need to ensure there is room to replace a new veneer by eliminating any enamel and bonding material that was placed to hold the original veneer. After creating a new veneer specifically for your mouth, it can then be bonded to your teeth as it was before.

Will porcelain veneers affect my ability to eat or speak?

By fitting seamlessly over your teeth to mimic the natural function and feel of your original enamel, porcelain veneers should not affect your ability to eat or speak. After an initial adjustment period, most patients find they can eat and speak normally.

Can I get porcelain veneers if I have gum disease?

It is generally not recommended to get porcelain veneers if you have active gum disease. Treating gum disease should be considered before any cosmetic dental procedure. With veneers, healthy gums are required to ensure the best fit and appearance. We offer non-surgical periodontal care that can help address gum disease first and, once it is under control, you should be able to pursue porcelain veneers.

Will veneers affect my bite or how I chew?

Porcelain veneers are designed to enhance the appearance of your teeth while maintaining proper function. When carefully planned and placed by an experienced dentist, veneers should not negatively affect your bite or the way you chew. In fact, they can sometimes improve bite balance by correcting minor alignment or shape concerns. One of our dentists can evaluate your bite during the planning process to ensure your veneers fit comfortably and function naturally with the rest of your teeth.

Porcelain Dental Veneers

Home●Cosmetic Dental Care●Porcelain Dental Veneers

Your smile is often the first feature that others see. If you’re self-conscious about your teeth due to functional or cosmetic reasons, you may not smile as readily as you would like. As a result, you may appear less happy and approachable than you really are. Fortunately, there are aesthetic enhancement options that can help. Porcelain dental veneers can improve the appearance of your smile with benefits that can last for decades. Chips, stains, gaps, misalignment, and other issues can all be effectively treated with porcelain dental veneers. Our experienced cosmetic dentists can renew your teeth with these advanced, customized treatment options. When you arrive for your initial consultation, your dentist will examine your areas of concern and develop a treatment plan that can optimize your results. Explore the sections provided below to learn more about porcelain veneers:

Explore Topics On This Page

Porcelain Veneers Candidates
Porcelain Veneers Benefits
Types of Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain Veneers vs. Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain Veneers Procedure
Porcelain Veneers Results
Porcelain Veneers Longevity
Porcelain Veneers Success
Porcelain Veneers at True Dentistry
Porcelain Veneers Alternatives
Porcelain Veneers Complementary Treatments
Porcelain Veneers Cost
Additional Porcelain Veneers FAQs

For more information on porcelain dental veneers, or to schedule a consultation, please contact True Dentistry today.

Quick Facts

Principle Benefits: Porcelain veneers can enhance the appearance of your smile by correcting chips, gaps, discoloration, and worn or uneven teeth while providing durable, natural-looking results.

Potential Candidates: Good candidates are often individuals with healthy teeth and gums who want to improve cosmetic concerns and the overall appearance of their smile.

Treatment Details: The process usually begins with a consultation and smile evaluation, followed by the creation of a customized treatment plan and a detailed wax-up model that serves as the blueprint for your custom-designed veneers.

Cost: The cost of porcelain veneers can vary depending on factors such as the number of veneers needed, the type of materials used, and your unique smile goals.

Who Are Candidates for Porcelain Veneers?

Generally, the best candidates for porcelain veneers have overall healthy teeth and gums, yet are interested in cosmetic adjustments to enhance their smile. Patients who can benefit from porcelain veneers most often seek to improve or conceal common dental concerns that affect the aesthetic appearance of their teeth. Individuals who have concerns that are primarily compromising the function and health of their teeth may be better suited to a restorative treatment such as dental crowns or another advanced option. During your initial consultation, one of our cosmetic dentists will evaluate your teeth and oral health, as well as discuss your aesthetic goals. Once they have an overall picture, they can determine whether porcelain veneers are the ideal treatment option and design a customized treatment plan to enhance the appearance of your smile with the most natural-looking results.

What Are the Benefits of Porcelain Veneers?

As one of the most popular methods of cosmetic smile enhancement, porcelain veneers offer numerous advantages. Comprised of very thin pieces of ceramic, porcelain veneers are essentially molded shells that are custom-designed to precisely fit your teeth. Once they have been carefully crafted, the veneers are placed on top of your natural teeth to improve the appearance of your smile. Porcelain veneers can provide a number of benefits, including:

Improved appearance of asymmetrical, short, or worn down teeth
Correction of chips, gaps, and misalignment
Diminished appearance of dental stains and discoloration
Enhanced structural support of cracked, fractured, or otherwise weakened teeth
Typically little to no downtime following the procedure
Long-lasting results resistant to future staining or yellowing
Revitalized appearance of existing dental restorations such as dental crowns and bridges
Personalized treatment plan for the most natural look and most comfortable fit possible

Frame your smile. Beautiful african woman framing her perfect white teeth with fingers, closeup

Plus, porcelain dental veneers are designed to be exceptionally durable. These treatments can significantly enhance the look of your smile for several years. At True Dentistry, we only utilize the highest-quality materials and most advanced techniques available to optimize your experience and outcome.

Series shots of dental veneer placement and installation on the tooth.

What Types of Porcelain Veneers Are Available at True Dentistry?

If you’re considering veneers, there are different types from which to choose. When you arrive for your initial consultation, we will discuss your needs and goals and help you determine which type of veneer can best achieve your desired outcome:

Porcelain Ceramic Veneers

Essentially thin ceramic shells, porcelain veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry enhancements in the nation. The durable material is long-lasting and can provide exceptionally natural-looking results. Dental veneers are customized to suit your unique anatomical needs and expressed goals, and they are made by a skilled dental lab technician. A small amount of your natural tooth enamel will be reduced to provide a precise fit, and we take great care to maintain as much of your dentition as possible.

Composite Veneers

A beautiful smile should be affordable for everyone, and composite veneers are often a more budget-friendly option than conventional dental veneers. Although not necessarily as long-lasting as porcelain veneers, composite veneers can offer many of the same benefits. Composite veneers typically require little to no tooth filing or reshaping, and they can still cover chips, discoloration, gaps, and other common concerns.

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Porcelain Veneers vs. Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain veneers and porcelain crowns are both excellent options for creating a refreshing, radiant smile. However, each treatment was designed to benefit patients in different ways. Porcelain veneers are predominantly used for cosmetic purposes and only cover the front and side surfaces of a tooth to change its appearance. Alternatively, a porcelain crown covers the entire tooth to provide both structural reinforcement and protection, as well as an aesthetic enhancement. In many cases, if the tooth is severely decayed or damaged, a custom crown may be the recommended option over a porcelain veneer in order to more comprehensively address the tooth’s condition while simultaneously improving its function, health, and appearance. After assessing your cosmetic concerns, your dentist will be able to advise whether a porcelain veneer or a porcelain crown is more ideal for your dental needs and aesthetic goals.

What Happens During the Porcelain Veneers Procedure?

When you first arrive for your initial consultation, you will have the opportunity to discuss how you would like to improve the appearance of your smile with our skilled dentist and experienced dental team. Our dentist will then evaluate your teeth and gums and develop a customized treatment plan that best addresses your unique dental needs and cosmetic goals. This is a collaborative process, and you are encouraged to speak freely about your desired outcome. Our doctor will guide you and help select the best option that offers the most ideal results. Once the treatment plan has been formulated, our dentist will create an impression of your teeth out of wax, which we call a “wax-up.” This mold will be used as a blueprint for your custom-made porcelain veneers.

With our state-of-the-art molding technology, a temporary set of veneers can be produced that will be worn for a brief period, which can give you time to determine if any changes are necessary to achieve the smile of your dreams. Our conservative approach helps to maintain more, if not all, of your natural tooth for a smile that’s healthy, resilient, and aesthetically appealing. When the permanent porcelain veneers are ready to be placed, they will be set onto the front part of the tooth (with porcelain veneers, only the visible part of the affected tooth needs to be covered, rather than the entire tooth). A durable cement material is used to hold the veneer in place with results that can last for many, many years. Your outcome is a primary concern, and there are multiple checkpoints throughout the process to help ensure your final smile is as discussed.

Porcelain dental veneers are strong, beautiful options to restore a number of teeth imperfections. These treatments are extraordinarily effective ways to improve aesthetic and functional dental issues with results that can have you smiling with confidence again. Furthermore, the process can be quick and easy, so there’s no reason to delay obtaining the smile you have always wanted and deserve to have.

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Ready for a stunning new smile? Schedule a consultation with True Dentistry today!

What Results Can I Expect with Porcelain Veneers?

The results of porcelain veneers will be exclusively tied to the individual needs of the patient and what goals that patient set out to accomplish. Generally speaking, patients seeking to address gapped teeth, chipped teeth, misaligned teeth, stained teeth, deteriorated teeth, or uneven and misshapen teeth can expect those issues within their smile to be resolved. Results from porcelain veneers typically last for many decades if the patient provides optimal care to their new smile. Maintaining proper check-ups with their dentist and keeping a strict oral hygiene routine can effectively prolong the life of porcelain veneers.

It is important to note that a porcelain veneers treatment cannot be reversed. In order for veneers to work and fit into a patient’s mouth, a tiny portion of tooth enamel is eliminated. Therefore, if the veneers are removed later on, the missing enamel would be evident. However, veneers can be replaced if there is a complication. Your dentist can detail the disadvantages and advantages of veneers at your initial consultation.

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How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?

In many cases, porcelain veneers can last as long as 10 years or more. There are several factors that can influence how long dental veneers will last, including the type of veneer used, your oral hygiene habits, and various environmental influences. High-quality materials that are known for their durability, such as the ones we use, can also play a role in longevity. Ways you can help extend the lifespan of your porcelain veneers include maintaining a strong oral hygiene routine, avoiding foods that could damage your veneers, and attending regular dental check-ups.

How Successful Are Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers are most successful when designed and performed by a skilled cosmetic dentist with many years of training and experience. According to multiple studies reported by the National Library of Medicine, porcelain veneers have shown a 91% survival rate over a continuous 20-year study, 93% patient satisfaction response after two years, and “excellent aesthetic results and predictable longevity of the treatment” when bonded directly to a patient’s enamel. The chances of achieving long-term success with porcelain veneers is also dependent on patients taking precautions when biting down on hard or sticky foods, and using a nightguard if they clench/grind their teeth while sleeping.

Why Choose True Dentistry for Porcelain Veneers?

Ensuring you are getting the best dental care possible when considering porcelain veneers is extremely important. At True Dentistry, our team is dedicated to providing professional care, accurate and timely results, and extended services that go beyond your treatment. Our primary focus at True Dentistry is in our name – we want the relationship and the results to be true to the needs of every patient. By maintaining innovative technology, industry best practices, and a primary directive for fulfilling patient needs, those who choose True Dentistry as their dental provider can expect our practice to meet or exceed their expectations. Starting at your initial consultation, our team develops a comprehensive dental plan that is tailored to your smile and followed throughout the entire process to ensure your goals are being met.

Young man doctor in white gown show veneers enamel color palette for smiling happy patient woman 20s sit at dentist office chair indoor cabinet near stomatologist. Healthcare oral aesthetic treatment.

Are There Alternatives to Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers can generally be the ideal choice for specific cosmetic concerns; however, there are also other treatments that may provide good solutions based on individual needs and wishes. At True Dentistry, we offer many other procedures that may serve as appropriate options if a porcelain veneers alternative needs to be considered, including:

Teeth Whitening – Professional-strength teeth whitening treatments can provide brighter, whiter smiles with immediate in-office results. We also offer convenient at-home kits for a more gradual approach. These options may be recommended to address discoloration that is not severe enough to require porcelain veneers.
Porcelain Crowns – Crowns can restore the function and appearance of severely decayed or damaged teeth as a standalone treatment or as part of a dental implant procedure, root canal therapy, or a dental bridge.
Cosmetic Bonding – A durable, tooth-colored resin carefully sculpted to improve minor dental imperfections such as chips, gaps, and stains can be an exceptional alternative to porcelain veneers. Although the results typically do not last as long as porcelain veneers, dental bonding can address many of the same issues.
Invisalign^® – Discreetly straighten misaligned teeth with a series of clear, plastic, removable trays designed for enhanced comfort while creating a beautiful, more uniform smile. Unlike porcelain veneers, Invisalign^® is not an “instant orthodontics” procedure; however, it can be the right option for patients who have orthodontic issues that require comprehensive treatment but do not need traditional braces for successful results.

We will be happy to customize a plan that takes all of your needs into account.

What Treatments Complement Porcelain Veneers?

Several cosmetic and restorative treatments can complement porcelain veneers to create a more balanced and complete smile transformation. Teeth whitening is often performed before veneer placement to brighten the surrounding natural teeth and ensure a more uniform shade. Invisalign^® may also be recommended to correct alignment issues prior to veneers, allowing for more conservative preparation and improved overall results. Cosmetic bonding can address minor imperfections on teeth that do not require veneers, helping maintain a natural look while minimizing treatment. In some cases, gum contouring or laser gum therapy may be used to reshape the gum line and enhance the symmetry of the smile. Dental crowns or tooth-colored fillings might also be included to restore damaged teeth and support overall oral health.

By combining veneers with complementary treatments, our dentists can design a customized plan that enhances both the appearance and function of your smile.

How Much Do Porcelain Veneers Cost?

While the national average of porcelain veneers can range from $500 and $2,895¹, treatment and overall cost are customized to suit your dental needs and cosmetic goals. As a result, every treatment plan, including total cost, will be unique to the individual. The overall fee can vary based on the type of veneers used, the number of veneers required, and your specific dental needs. We will detail the cost of your personalized plan during your initial consultation. At True Dentistry we offer financing options through trusted third-party lenders to help make your treatment more affordable.

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Additional Porcelain Veneer Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if veneers or another cosmetic procedure is right for me?
Determining whether porcelain veneers or another cosmetic procedure is right for you begins with a consultation with one of our qualified dentists. During this visit, they can evaluate your teeth, gums, bite, and overall oral health while also discussing your goals for improving your smile. Veneers are often recommended for concerns such as discoloration, chips, minor misalignment, or uneven tooth shape.

However, other treatments, including teeth whitening, Invisalign^®, cosmetic bonding, or dental crowns, may be more appropriate depending on your needs. Our team can explain the benefits of each option and create a personalized treatment plan designed to achieve natural-looking results while supporting your long-term oral health.
Do porcelain veneers hurt?
Your well-being is of primary concern. Depending on the type of porcelain veneers utilized to achieve your goals, there may be a small amount of tooth reshaping or reduction required. In this instance, we will provide a numbing agent to minimize pain, and most patients report little discomfort. Some veneers, including composite veneers, typically require little to no drilling or reduction, making the procedure quicker and more pleasant.
How long does the procedure take?
The process of veneers begins with a consultation. Once you are ready to proceed with your treatment, the team will take molds of your mouth and send them out to the lab technician for the design of your veneers. After the design is returned, our doctor will prepare your teeth for the “trial smile.” You will wear your trial smile restorations in order to give feedback on your likes and dislikes. After you approve the final design, your veneers will be fabricated by the skilled lab technician. You will return for the cementation of your veneers followed by any final adjustments you may need once they are cemented in place.
Do dental veneers require special care?
Excellent oral hygiene is strongly recommended for everyone, regardless of whether they have porcelain veneers. Routine brushing and flossing can help maintain the beauty and function of your dental veneers for years to come.
Are porcelain veneers reversible?
In general, porcelain veneers are not reversible. The exception to this would be no-prep veneers. Not everyone is a candidate for no-prep veneers. If you would like to determine whether a no-prep veneer procedure is right for your needs, please schedule a consultation here at our practice.
Do porcelain veneers stain?
Porcelain veneers made of high-quality ceramic material are considered stain-resistant, remaining white and bright even when exposed to substances that would discolor natural tooth material.
Can I get just one veneer or will I need a whole set of veneers?
It is possible to receive one veneer to address a single tooth that may be compromising smile aesthetics. For patients who desire a full smile makeover, a minimum of 8 to 10 veneers are usually recommended; however, the number of veneers necessary is generally dependent on the condition of your teeth and your overall goals. Your dentist can discuss the best veneers solution for your needs when you come in for your consultation.
Will my teeth feel sensitive after treatment with porcelain veneers?
Immediately following porcelain veneer treatment, there can be an expected period of time where your teeth experience a hot and cold sensation that may cause some discomfort. The porcelain veneer procedure involves removing portions of enamel from the targeted teeth so cases of sensitivity on the teeth is normal. Patients will have to allow for a short period of time for the teeth and gums to heal before your mouth becomes completely accustomed to your veneers. Your gums will likely also experience some form of soreness that usually dissipates within a few days following treatment.
How can I protect my porcelain veneers from damage?
Luckily, porcelain veneers can be replaced if damage occurs to them. However, many would prefer to avoid damage altogether and go the extra mile to protect their newly placed dental veneers. To further protect your veneers, patients can wear a mouthguard at night or during physical activities to avoid any unnecessary chipping or cracking due to blunt force. Additionally, patients should keep up with routine brushing and flossing as well as yearly dental appointments so that a dentist can monitor the progress of your veneers and make any necessary adjustments.
What happens if I need to replace a veneer?
Mirroring the initial process of placing your original and now-likely-damaged veneer, the process of replacing a veneer will be similar to your first procedure. Your dentist will need to ensure there is room to replace a new veneer by eliminating any enamel and bonding material that was placed to hold the original veneer. After creating a new veneer specifically for your mouth, it can then be bonded to your teeth as it was before.
Will porcelain veneers affect my ability to eat or speak?
By fitting seamlessly over your teeth to mimic the natural function and feel of your original enamel, porcelain veneers should not affect your ability to eat or speak. After an initial adjustment period, most patients find they can eat and speak normally.
Can I get porcelain veneers if I have gum disease?
It is generally not recommended to get porcelain veneers if you have active gum disease. Treating gum disease should be considered before any cosmetic dental procedure. With veneers, healthy gums are required to ensure the best fit and appearance. We offer non-surgical periodontal care that can help address gum disease first and, once it is under control, you should be able to pursue porcelain veneers.
Will veneers affect my bite or how I chew?
Porcelain veneers are designed to enhance the appearance of your teeth while maintaining proper function. When carefully planned and placed by an experienced dentist, veneers should not negatively affect your bite or the way you chew. In fact, they can sometimes improve bite balance by correcting minor alignment or shape concerns. One of our dentists can evaluate your bite during the planning process to ensure your veneers fit comfortably and function naturally with the rest of your teeth.

Contact Us

If you would like to learn more about how porcelain dental veneers can enhance the appearance of your smile, or if you would like to schedule an appointment to talk about your options, please contact our office today.

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Medical Resource

¹CareCredit^® – How Much Do Veneers Cost? Pricing and Coverage Guide