Do you have tooth damage? Are one or more discolored teeth impacting your smile’s appearance? Dental veneers can help. Our office offers two types of veneers that benefit patients in different ways. Here, we will compare treatment with porcelain veneers vs. minimal-prep veneers in our Arlington Heights, IL, dental office. Dental veneers can improve the appearance of the smile and protect teeth from further damage.
Types of Dental Veneers in Arlington Heights, IL
There are two different types of dental veneers we offer in our office for our patients:
Traditional Veneers
We craft custom-made porcelain veneers out of porcelain ceramic materials. Veneers look like tooth-colored shells that we bond to the front of each tooth. We prepare teeth for veneers by removing a small portion of the tooth. Etching the tooth enamel helps keep the veneer stable and reduces bulk.
We recommend traditional dental veneers for patients with chipped or cracked teeth, gaps between teeth, and even slightly crooked teeth. Dental veneers can cover larger areas of damage. We can also use veneers for a single tooth or all of the teeth in the smile line. Because dental veneers can last up to 30 years with proper care, patients who choose them must be committed to wearing them. Patients must also be committed to veneers due to the tooth preparation required. Once we remove a portion of the tooth enamel, we cannot replace it. Patients who choose dental veneers should know that they are a permanent cosmetic option.
Minimal Prep Veneers
Our minimal prep veneers are a better option for patients with healthy teeth and sufficient tooth structure. These veneers require little to no preparation, so we can easily remove these veneers without changing the teeth.
Minimal prep veneers are also made of porcelain ceramic. However, they are much thinner. While regular dental veneers are 0.5 mm thick, minimal prep veneers are 0.3 mm thick. These veneers benefit patients seeking to address discolored teeth or minor cosmetic imperfections. Minimal prep veneers are also a good option for patients who may not want to commit to permanent veneers and want to see how veneers look on their teeth.
Do you have any questions about your veneer options, or are you still unsure which type is right for you? Request a dental appointment online. You can also call AH Smiles (847) 230-9703. Dr. Engelberg or a team member will be happy to discuss treatment with you.