Veneers are one of the most modern aesthetic smile solutions and are placed on the front surfaces of the teeth to improve their original appearance. These are thin ceramic or plastic slices. They are mainly used to cover unsightly gaps, unsightly discoloration of the teeth, to cover the incorrect position of the teeth, chipped corners of the teeth, unsightly dark fillings, irregular shape of the teeth. There are several procedures, from the application of temporary veneers, which can be removed over time without damaging the surface of the teeth, to permanent veneers, in which the surface of the teeth must first be adjusted and prepared for the long-term adhesion of the veneers, in which the tooth is covered over the entire surface, not only from the front parts.

The advantage of veneers is minimal preparation and the possibility of achieving a long-lasting effect. The method is not as invasive as in the case of dental implants.

What are dental veneers and how do they work?

Dental veneers improve the appearance  of teeth without significant need for further treatment, protect them from damage and can create a beautiful smile. Tooth-colored shells adhere to  natural teeth and can change their length, size, color, shape and function based on  appropriate consideration of all the mentioned parameters.

Veneers are considered a cosmetic dental procedure because they are optional and not medically necessary. They are also known as “smile makeovers”. They are an excellent way to hide yellowed, crooked or damaged teeth. They are also known as “smile makeovers”. They are an excellent way to hide yellowed, crooked or damaged teeth. 

Most patients choose veneers to improve appearance, but they also have regenerative functions and protect the surface of the tooth from damage. They are also a great choice for patients who have gaps in their teeth, surface indentations or stains. The procedure is relatively quick and minimally invasive. Depending on the color of the teeth and the desired result, veneers are available in several shades.

Veneer types

There are five common types of materials used to create a dental veneer:

1. Porcelain veneers

Porcelain is the most common material used to make veneers. These veneers can also be made in the original color of the teeth to preserve the naturalness of the original color, they are versatile, custom-made, and their lifespan can be 10 to 15 years. They are made of ceramic materials and resist stains better than composite veneers.

The main advantage of porcelain veneers is the conservative and minimally invasive nature of the procedure. Minimal preparation is required for successful placement of the shell.

When preparing a tooth for a porcelain veneer, the dentist first selects a tooth shade that best matches the color of the adjacent teeth. A dental impression is made for the dental laboratory, which makes the veneer.

During the first appointment, temporary veneers are placed so that the patient can function naturally in social life. At the second appointment, the dentist removes the temporary veneers and prepares the tooth for the porcelain veneer. It cleans the tooth and applies an acidic material to roughen the surface of the tooth, making it easier for the veneer to bond to the surface of the tooth. He will then apply a special cement that will allow the veneer to remain firmly attached to the tooth. The cement is cured with blue light. The last step is to remove excess cement from the tooth and check the bite. If the bite does not fit completely, adjustments are made until the bite is completely problem-free.

2. Composite veneers

Composite veneers are an alternative to porcelain veneers. They are made of the same material used for tooth-colored cavity fillings

These veneers differ from porcelain veneers in several ways. Although, for example, composite veneers are more affordable, porcelain veneers can cost up to three times more.

Composite veneers require only one appointment. They are carved directly on the teeth, not in a dental laboratory. On the other hand, porcelain veneers require more than one appointment.

Like porcelain veneers, composite veneers require tooth reconstruction before placement and can be placed directly over treated enamel. However, composite veneers typically last 5 to 7 years compared to up to 10-15 years for porcelain veneers.

Composite is also more conservative than porcelain. If the  composite veneer breaks, it can be repaired locally. In the case of porcelain, it is necessary to replace the entire facet.

3. Palatal veneers (Palatal Onlays)

Onlays are usually used to restore teeth. However, palatal veneers are a particular onlay used to restore front teeth. Causes of palatal damage to the front teeth include deep bite, bruxism, and tooth erosion.

Erosion can be caused by chronic vomiting and severe acid reflux that erodes tooth enamel. Palatal onlays are a great solution to restore only the damaged part, leaving the rest of the teeth intact. 

4. Lumineers

Lumineers are a brand of veneers that are ultra-thin (0.2mm) and translucent. They mimic the shape and color of natural tooth enamel, even more so than porcelain veneers.

Lumineers are so thin that they do not require tooth reduction or re-contouring. They last more than 20 years than 10 to 15 years for porcelain veneers.

Although comfortable, they have a greater chance of chipping than traditional veneers, and this mechanical threat of damage often results in a shorter lifespan.

5. Removable veneers (not permanent)

Removable veneers (custom-made veneers) are less invasive, not permanent, and cost less than traditional veneers.

Permanent veneers are irreversible because the dentist must remove part of the tooth enamel. Removable veneers do not require tooth surface reduction.

Removable veneers, called implantable, can be uncomfortable, do not blend well with natural teeth, and must be replaced frequently.

These veneers are a non-permanent alternative to traditional dental veneers. They are an excellent solution for people who desire a beautiful smile but want to choose something other than permanent veneers. Getting snap-on veneers is a painless and straightforward process. First, the dentist takes molds of the teeth and sends them to the dental laboratory. Then, the dental professional will return the veneers with a wearing guide when ready.

 

Snap-on veneers can cover up several dental problems, including:

  • missing teeth
  • broken teeth
  • yellow teeth
  • stained teeth
 

 

They cannot correct more serious problems such as crooked teeth. It is because they are not designed to alter the structure of the teeth. Crooked teeth and incorrect bites are the competence of the orthodontist.

How do snap-on veneers work?

Insert veneers fit over  the teeth like a protector. They can be conveniently removed at any time without the help of a dental professional. They are safe to use.

Most materials manufacturers use do not lead to tooth decay or infections. However, accumulated food particles can lead to dental problems if you do not brush your teeth regularly.

Some materials can cause an allergic reaction, but this is rare. However, some snap-on facets can lead to problems due to the construction of the facets.

Implant veneers versus traditional veneers

Traditional veneers consist of a skinny layer of porcelain that matches the teeth’ shape, size, and color for a perfect smile. High-quality traditional veneers look like natural teeth and can last ten to twenty years, depending on the materials.

Traditional veneers are more expensive than implant veneers.

Unlike natural veneers, snap-on veneers can be put on and removed whenever you want. In addition, they do not require any dental injections, bonding, or cutting of gums or tooth tissue.

Implant veneers are usually made of resin and act as a mask over your natural teeth. A click will be heard when fitted correctly as the tooth facets wrap around. In addition, snap-on veneers are much more affordable compared to traditional veneers.

Who are implantable veneers suitable for?

  • For those with stained, missing, chipped, or crooked teeth
  • For those looking for a more affordable option to traditional veneers
  • For those looking for a more comfortable alternative to conventional veneers
  • For those who want a new, beautiful smile

Who are veneers not suitable for?

  • For those with cavities, deep cracks in their teeth, broken teeth, or gum disease

  • For those who have loose-fitting veneers, crowns, or other dental restorations

  • For women who are pregnant or breastfeeding

The five types of veneers include porcelain veneers, composite veneers, palatal veneers, Lumineers, and removable veneers. Porcelain is the most expensive and natural-looking option. Removable veneers are the cheapest and least natural-looking option.

Why do people reach for veneers?

Veneers make up about 26 percent of cosmetic procedures performed by dentists. However, there are several reasons why dental veneers may be preferred over other methods.

They are used for:

  • To change the length, color, shape, and size of the teeth and correct specific problems (splitting from the tooth, uneven surface)
  • To repair cracked or broken teeth (due to injury, nail-biting, etc.)
  • To correct white spots/streaks on the teeth (usually caused by overuse of fluoride)
  • To cover stains and discoloration of teeth (from dark foods, certain medications, natural aging, etc.)
 

 

For root canals, crowns or 3/4 crowns are recommended. Veneers on anterior root canal-treated teeth are rarely performed. They are also never placed on premolars or molars.

In general, veneer placement consists of the following steps:

  1. The dentist removes some enamel from the front and sides of the teeth to make room for the veneer.
  2. He then makes an impression (form) of the prepared tooth structure.
  3. With the patient, he decides on the veneer shade that best matches the smile so the veneer looks natural.
  4. The dentist sends an impression of the tooth to the dental laboratory, which adjusts the veneer to fit precisely. This step can take several weeks; the dentist will cover the teeth with temporary veneers.
  5. At the next visit, the dentist will remove the temporary veneers and place the permanent veneers on the teeth to confirm proper fit and appearance. The dentist cleans the teeth before gluing the veneer.

Side effects and risks of facets

Traditional veneers such as porcelain and composite are great options for those who want to improve their smile quickly, safely, and effectively.

As with any dental procedure, there are risks involved. However, these are not life-threatening and can be avoided with proper care. Common conditions and side effects of facets can include:

  • Tooth sensitivity (this is common during the first three weeks after veneer placement)
    If the sensitivity lasts longer than three months, there is an underlying problem. For example, the tooth’s nerve may have been irreversibly inflamed during the procedure, causing an infection.
  • Damage to the teeth
    There is also a risk of damage to the dentin after veneer placement, but it is not shared.
    Damage to the underlying dentin may occur during the enamel removal process. An ill-fitting veneer can also alter the patient’s bite alignment, resulting in tooth sensitivity, bruxism, or jaw pain.
  • Future facet replacement
    People with untreated dental problems before veneer placement, such as enamel erosion, are more at risk when using veneers. Therefore, alternative restorations are often recommended to replace it, including crowns or cosmetic bonding.


Facets connect to the front surface of the tooth. They are less invasive, thinner, and more fragile than crowns, meaning they have a higher risk of breaking or ‘twisting.’ In addition, they improve the patient’s appearance by changing the teeth’ shape and color.

The crown covers the entire tooth. It is thicker than a veneer and requires more tooth structure to be removed before placement. Unlike veneers (aesthetic point of view), crowns are used for restorative purposes, such as fixing severely damaged or broken teeth.

Veneers versus teeth whitening

Veneers are long-lasting fillings, while home or professional teeth whitening is only temporary. Since everyone has different eating habits, lifestyles, and habits such as smoking, there is no way to predict how long the whitening will take.

On the other hand, a veneer can last between 5 and 15 years, depending on the type of veneer and how well the patient takes care of their teeth. In addition, porcelain veneers resist stains from coffee, wine, and smoking.

Veneers versus orthodontic treatment

When patients have significant gaps between their teeth or, on the contrary, they are closely spaced, veneers will solve the problems within a few visits to the office.

Orthodontic treatment – braces or translucent aligners

It can take up to 18 months for the process to be completed entirely, and then it is necessary to wear a fixing splint shaft for about a year. It is also necessary to visit the doctor’s office much more often.

Although orthodontic treatment takes longer, it is sometimes the best option for patients, especially children. It is because braces adjust the jaw and correct the patient’s bite and other oral health problems. Veneers are usually used for cosmetic reasons. In addition, braces are generally less expensive than dental veneers.

Transparent aligners designed directly for the patient will allow you to straighten your teeth at home. In addition, these aligners cost less than Invisalign and can provide similar levels of treatment.

Dental crowns are recommended over veneers if the tooth has decay, tooth fractures, or teeth with root canal treatment. Veneers are recommended for cosmetic problems. Teeth whitening treatment may be a better option if there is only minor tooth discoloration.

Are veneers permanent?

Most types of veneers are permanent, including composite and porcelain veneers.

Do veneers cause pain?

It is rare for veneers to cause pain and discomfort during and after the procedure is completed. The process is minimally invasive and only requires removing a small amount of tooth enamel.

Will the veneers stain?

Like natural teeth, some veneers can become discolored over time. However, most veneers are made of stain-resistant materials. With good care, whites will last for many years.

How long do veneers last?

Two primary factors determine how long veneers last. First, once they are in place, they need to be cared  for like regular teeth and should be visited by the dentist every six months for a cleaning.


Can tooth enamel grow back?

No. After tooth enamel is removed, it cannot grow back. It is why veneers are considered permanent replacements.

 
 

Important information:

We will be happy to help you and  offer a solution to your problem or  your dream idea!

Each client is unique and has an individual situation in  the field of health or aesthetics (appearance).  For  this reason, after consulting about  his  problems and  needs, our specialists will propose the most suitable solution – the type of procedure or treatment and  the time schedule, in  case it is necessary to undergo the procedure or treatment more than once.

If  you are interested in learning more, please contact us on phone number 00421 905 928  302, via the contact form or at the email address info@aladiva.sk.