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Transform Your Smile with Porcelain Veneers

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(561) 705-0045

Dental Veneers and Dental Laminates

Patients who want to improve the appearance of their smiles may consider dental veneers or laminates. Although people often use the two terms interchangeably, they have some differences. Both procedures can help improve a patient’s smile. Knowing the difference between them can help you choose the best option for you. From color to size and shape, dental veneers and laminates can provide a solution for people who want a better-looking smile. These procedures are available at Bellagio Dental Implant Center in North Palm Beach and the surrounding area.

Understanding Dental Laminates

Both dental laminates, like veneers, can improve the appearance of a patient’s smile. However, they have key differences that patients should consider. Laminates tend to be lighter and less durable than veneers. While dental laminates can improve the whiteness of teeth, they are not appropriate for dental repairs. Laminates are much thinner than veneers and require less enamel removal. Placing laminates does not require much alteration to the tooth shape or enamel, which can be better for long term tooth health. However, they can be more expensive than veneers and bulky on the teeth when placed without any tooth alteration.

Understanding Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are thin coatings of porcelain or composite resin covering the teeth to repair minor damage and improve the appearance of stains or discoloration. Some of the common issues that veneers can correct include gaps, misshapen teeth, cracks, chips, staining, and discoloration. Patients must have enamel removal and tooth reshaping to allow the veneer to stay flat without being bulky. Patients can choose between porcelain veneers or composite resin veneers. Porcelain veneers usually last longer than composite resin ones. They resist staining and tend to be stronger and more durable. Composite resin veneers can be completed in a single dental visit, while porcelain veneers typically require two dental visits. Composite resin also preserves more of the patient’s tooth enamel and tends to cost less than porcelain but is more prone to breakage.

Placing Dental Veneers

Dental Veneer and Laminate Aftercare

Are dental laminates and veneers comfortable?

Dental laminates and veneers may feel strange at first. Most patients become accustomed to their laminates or veneers a few days after the procedure. Patients should let their cosmetic dentists know about any bite problems as adjustments may be needed.

Patients should make their decision based on their desired results and the current state of their teeth. We usually recommend porcelain for patients with crooked or misshapen teeth, gaps, and cracks. Composite veneers may be a better choice for patients with stained or minorly chipped teeth.

Most dental veneers last between seven to 15 years. Proper care is necessary to extend the life of veneers. Visiting the dentist regularly and following aftercare instructions can also help veneers last longer.

Dental veneers are used only on the front teeth and are not appropriate for molars. The exact number of veneers depends on the state of the teeth and the patient’s esthetic goals. Most people opt for an even number of veneers, commonly two, four, eight, 10, or 12.

Local anesthetics numb the patient before removing tooth enamel and installing veneers. After the procedure, it is common to experience mild soreness affecting the jawbone and gums. Over-the-counter pain medication can reduce this discomfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

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