What Are Dental Veneers?

Dr. Lattinelli uses dental veneers in his practice to help patients with minor tooth defects or damage. What are dental veneers and how can they help you?

A veneer is any thin ceramic or composite structure placed over an existing tooth to prevent continuing tooth wear, cover minor defects, or strengthen teeth with small amounts of damage. Veneers are typically either ceramic or a composite.

Teeth can be excellent candidates for veneers if they have:

• Stains that cannot be remedied by bleaching
• Wear or small chips creating an imperfect smile
• Poor shapes or are crooked
• Uneven spacing or a large gap in the front teeth

Ceramic veneers are a thin layer of porcelain ceramic that is glued over an existing tooth. A small amount of the existing tooth surface is first removed to make room for the veneer, then the veneer is custom-made to fit the tooth and cemented in place. Ceramics are very hard and long-lasting and are also resistant to stains.

Another option may be a composite veneer. They are typically less expensive than ceramics and often can be completed in a single visit to Dr. Lattinelli. A composite material is made that is color-matched to the existing tooth. One advantage of composites is they require less surface preparation than a ceramic veneer.

Some things to consider when discussing veneers:

• Once the tooth surface is removed for a veneer, it cannot be put back so a veneer will have to remain in place for your lifetime or until you lose the tooth.
• Veneers are not good candidates for patients who grind their teeth as they can break and would have to be replaced regularly. You may be asked to wear a dental guard at night to prevent damage to any veneers.
• Veneers can come loose over time and require replacement or reattachment.
• Any tooth or gum diseases must be fixed before veneers can be used, which can lengthen your treatment time and cost.

If you have any questions about veneers or our other dental services, please call Dr. Lattinelli’s office at 212-752-7188.