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Cosmetic dentistry

Veneers in Lehi

Maybe one tooth looks a little off, or a few front teeth do not match. Veneers are one way to change their shape and shade, and we can walk you through whether they suit your goals.

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What is a veneer?

A veneer is a custom cover that attaches to the visible side of a tooth. It changes how that tooth looks from the front. Veneers can be made from porcelain or from composite resin, a tooth-colored material.

  • Each one is shaped and shaded for your smile
  • Can hide chips, uneven edges and some kinds of stains
  • Your own teeth need to be healthy first

Is a veneer right for you?

People often ask about veneers when something about their front teeth bothers them every time they look in the mirror. Common reasons include:

  • A tooth with a chip or rough edge
  • Space between two front teeth
  • Teeth that look crooked or have an odd shape
  • Color that stays dark even after whitening
  • Teeth that do not line up evenly from the front

Veneers rest on healthy enamel, so your dentist will first look for decay, gum problems and signs of clenching. If those need care, that comes first. In some cases, whitening, a crown or Invisalign® clear aligners may meet your goal with less change to your teeth. Your dentist will explain the trade-offs so you can choose.

How the process works

  1. Talk about your goals. Tell us what you would like to change. Your dentist checks your teeth and gums, takes x-rays and may take photos to plan the shape and shade.
  2. Get your teeth ready. For many veneers, a small amount of enamel is smoothed off the front of each tooth. This helps the veneer sit flat. You will be numbed for this step if it is needed.
  3. Make the veneers. Porcelain veneers are made to fit from a model of your teeth. You may wear a short-term cover while you wait. Composite veneers are often built up and shaped right on the tooth.
  4. Bond and polish. Your dentist tries each veneer, checks the color and fit, then bonds it to your tooth. Last, your bite is checked and the edges are polished.

Choosing a material

Porcelain tends to hold its color well and can last many years. Composite usually takes fewer visits and is easier to fix if a piece breaks, but it may pick up stains over time. Your dentist can help you compare them for your teeth and budget.

Living with veneers

Treat veneers like your natural teeth. Brush two times a day with a soft brush and clean between your teeth every day. The tooth under a veneer can still get a cavity near the gum line, so regular cleanings and checkups matter. Try not to bite hard things like ice, hard candy or bottle caps with your front teeth. If you clench or grind, a custom night guard can help protect them while you sleep.

Cost and insurance

Your cost depends on the care you need and your dental plan. After your exam, we give you an estimate and go over what your insurance is likely to cover before any treatment starts. We work with most major dental plans and accept CareCredit.

See insurance and payment options

FAQ

Questions about veneers

Can a veneer fix just one tooth?
Yes. A single veneer can be shaded to blend with the teeth next to it. Matching one tooth can take extra care, so your dentist may plan the color with you closely.
Will my teeth look fake?
Veneers are made to fit your face and your other teeth. You help choose the shape and shade. Many people find they look like natural teeth when the plan is done well.
Is getting veneers something I can undo?
If enamel is removed, that part of the tooth will always need a cover of some kind. Some composite veneers need little or no enamel removed. Ask your dentist which type fits your case.
What happens if a veneer chips or comes off?
Call our office and keep the piece if you can. A composite veneer can often be repaired. A porcelain veneer may need to be rebonded or replaced.
Will insurance help pay for veneers?
Veneers are often seen as cosmetic, so many plans leave them out. When a tooth is broken and the veneer restores it, some benefits may apply. Our team can check your benefits before you start.

Related care

You may also want to know about

Dental Crowns

A custom shell that wraps a cracked, worn or heavily filled tooth to keep it working.

About dental crowns

Questions?

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Our Lehi team will answer your questions and find a time that works for you.

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