Dental Veneers

DISCOVER HOW VENEERS TRANSFORM YOUR TEETH

If you are not satisfied with the appearance of your teeth, discover how veneers are often the right choice to transform your teeth and enhance your smile. Veneers are thin coverings of ceramic or porcelain that are bonded to your tooth with little or no modification of your natural tooth. They are great for improving the appearance of your teeth, including lightening the color by several shades. Our dentists will help you select a shade of porcelain that is both natural looking and beautiful. Drs. Mark and Christen Simpson may recommend dental veneers in Charleston, West Virginia, to transform your teeth and improve your smile by:

Closing spaces and gaps in between teeth
Correcting slight tooth misalignment
Giving your smile a more uniform, even appearance
Improving irregularly shaped teeth
Lightening your smile and covering staining or discoloration on the teeth
Repairing chips or cracks in teeth
Restoring very worn teeth

VENEERS OFFER STATE-OF-THE-ART DURABILITY

Veneers are the long-term, durable solution to correcting problem teeth. In just one or two visits to Simpson Dental PLLC, we can place your custom dental veneers and help achieve a smile that is more beautiful and inviting. Veneers, thin coverings of porcelain also known as dental porcelain laminates, are the state-of-the-art in conservative aesthetic dentistry. The dental professionals at Simpson Dental can make subtle changes or complete makeovers with veneers. These durable restorations consist of custom-made shells of tooth-colored materials, made from porcelain or from resin composite, designed to cover the front surface of teeth. The shells are bonded to the front of the teeth changing their color, shape, size, or length.

LEARN THE DENTAL VENEER PROCESS & WHAT TO EXPECT

Getting a dental veneer usually requires three trips to the dentist—one for a consultation and two to make and apply the veneers. One tooth or many teeth can simultaneously undergo the veneering process described below.

Diagnosis and treatment planning: This first step involves active participation between you and Drs. Mark and Christen Simpson. Explain the result that you are trying to achieve at the time of your consultation. The doctor will examine your teeth to make sure dental veneers are an appropriate option for you and discuss what the procedure will involve and some of its limitations. Taking X-rays and making impressions of your mouth and teeth may be part of the early treatment planning.

Preparation: To prepare a tooth for a veneer, the doctor removes about ½-millimeter of enamel from the tooth surface, which is an amount nearly equal to the thickness of the veneer to be added to the tooth surface. Be sure to discuss with the doctor any need for a local anesthetic to numb the area. Next, the model or impression of your tooth is sent to our in-house dental laboratory, which constructs your veneer.

Bonding: Dr. Simpson places the veneer temporarily to examine its fit and color before it is permanently cemented to your tooth. There may be repeated removal and trimming of the veneer, as needed, to achieve the proper fit. The color of the veneer can be adjusted with the shade of cement used. To prepare your tooth to receive the veneer, your tooth is cleaned, polished, and etched—which roughens the tooth to allow for a strong bonding process. Special cement is applied to the veneer and the veneer is then placed on your tooth. Once it is in proper position on the tooth, the doctor applies a special light beam to the dental veneer, which activates chemicals in the cement causing it to harden or cure very quickly. Final steps involve removing any excess cement, evaluating your bite, and making any final adjustments in the veneer, as necessary. You may be asked to return for a follow-up visit to check how your gums are responding to the presence of your veneer and to once again examine placement.

Lumineers: Lumineers are just a name brand for a veneer. They are the same as any veneer. The only difference is that generally no tooth structure is removed. Veneers work fine if adding to the tooth is your goal.

If you have questions about veneers, or any of our cosmetic dentistry services in Charleston, West Virginia, contact us to schedule your appointment today at Simpson Dental PLLC!

Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Veneers in Charleston, WV

What’s the difference between porcelain veneers and composite veneers?

Porcelain veneers are thin shells made from high-quality ceramic material that are custom-crafted and bonded to your teeth for a natural, long-lasting result. They’re highly resistant to staining and can last 10–15 years with proper care. Composite veneers, on the other hand, are made from a composite material that is applied directly to your teeth and sculpted during your appointment. While they’re less expensive and quicker to place, they typically last 5–7 years and may stain more easily. Both are cosmetic procedure options that can dramatically improve the look of your teeth and give you a bright smile.

Are no prep veneers a good option for everyone?

No prep veneers, such as Lumineers, are designed to be placed without removing much, if any, of your natural tooth enamel. This makes them a less invasive option and ideal for people who want to preserve their natural teeth. However, they may not be suitable if you have unhealthy teeth, significant misalignment, or excessive enamel damage. Not everyone is a good candidate, which is why a consultation with a dentist who follows American Dental Association guidelines is essential to determine if no prep veneers are right for your smile.

How do composite resin veneers compare to traditional porcelain veneers in terms of longevity?

Composite resin veneers are made from a durable composite material and can be placed in just one visit, making them a convenient option. However, they’re more prone to chipping, discoloration, and general wear over time. Traditional porcelain veneers, while more costly and requiring more than one visit, offer superior strength and a more natural appearance. They typically last much longer—often more than a decade. If you’re looking for a long-term solution and are concerned about durability, traditional porcelain veneers may be a better fit.

Can veneers be used on teeth with enamel erosion?

Veneers may be an option for teeth with mild enamel erosion, as they can protect the tooth surface while restoring the shape and appearance. However, because applying veneers involves bonding the material to the natural tooth surface, a certain amount of healthy tooth enamel is needed for proper adhesion. If your teeth are unhealthy or have significant erosion, your dentist may recommend other restorative treatments first to ensure long-term success. Always work with a provider who adheres to American Dental Association standards when considering cosmetic procedures like veneers.

What should I consider before getting veneers to ensure long-term success?

Before committing to veneers, think about the current health of your teeth, the amount of tooth enamel you have, and your goals for achieving a bright smile. You’ll also want to decide between composite veneers, which are faster and more affordable, and traditional porcelain veneers, which are longer-lasting and more stain-resistant. Your dentist will evaluate your oral health and recommend the best type based on your specific needs. Make sure you ask questions and understand how veneers may affect your daily routine, hygiene habits, and future dental care.