Dental veneers are a versatile cosmetic dentistry restoration that offers quick, safe, and painless treatment. Our Media, PA dental office, offers composite veneers that treat severe tooth discoloration, chipped and cracked teeth, gaps between teeth, and crooked teeth.
Composite veneers are a less invasive and less expensive alternative to porcelain veneers. We can adjust shape and color in the office to optimize your smile. All teeth are adjusted/bonded with sculpted dental resins by expert dentists Dr. Hillyard and Dr Monroe.
Types of Composite Veneers
Composite veneers can be direct or indirect. Both types of composite veneers are made of composite resin, but direct composite veneers are applied directly to your teeth. For indirect composite veneers, your teeth are prepped, and the veneers are custom-made in a local dental laboratory.
We’ll provide you with a set of temporary veneers until the indirect veneers are made. At your next appointment, we apply the indirect composite veneers to the teeth with adhesive. Indirect composite veneers can resist fractures and damage to teeth. However, direct composite veneers are a more cost-effective option. The application process is quick and considered minimally invasive.
How to Maintain Composite Veneers
Taking care of your composite veneers helps them last longer. Just like natural teeth, your veneers need good daily care. Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Floss once a day before you brush to remove food and plaque between your teeth and around the edges of the veneers.
Try to avoid hard or crunchy foods like ice, hard candy, or popcorn kernels that can chip or crack the veneers. Also, don’t bite your nails or use your teeth to open things. If you grind your teeth at night, we may recommend a night guard to protect your veneers. Teeth grinding can damage your veneers.
Composite veneers can also stain over time. Limit dark-colored drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, and soda. If you do enjoy them, use a straw when you can and rinse your mouth with water afterward. Regular dental cleanings and check-ups will also keep your veneers in good shape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many patients have questions about veneers. Read answers to common questions about composite veneers in our Media, PA, dental office.
What’s the difference between composite and porcelain veneers?
Both types of veneers are made from different materials and have a few key differences. Composite veneers are made of a tooth-colored resin and we can typically place them in a single visit. They cost less and require little to no enamel removal. Composite veneers last around 5 to 7 years.
Porcelain veneers are made in a lab from a strong ceramic material. They take a little longer to get, but they last often 10 to 15 years and resist stains better. They also look more natural because porcelain reflects light like real teeth.
Whether you choose composite or porcelain depends on your smile goals, budget, and current concerns. Our office will work with you to find the best option for you.
Do I need to avoid any foods after I get composite veneers?
Yes, avoid hard or sticky foods that could chip or dislodge the veneers within the first 24 to 48 hours. In the long term, limit foods and drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, or curry. Chewing ice or biting your nails can also damage the surface. With good care, your veneers will stay intact and last longer.
Can I whiten my teeth after I get composite veneers?
No, whitening treatments won’t change the color of the veneer material. If you whiten the surrounding natural teeth, it could create a mismatch in shade. But if your composite veneers become stained over time, our dentist can polish or replace them to restore their color. It’s best to whiten your teeth first if you plan to get veneers so they can be color-matched properly.
How many teeth are usually treated with composite veneers?
The number of teeth we treat will vary based on your smile goals, but most patients choose 4 to 8 front teeth, which are most visible when you smile. Some opt for just one or two teeth if only minor flaws need correction. Dr. Hillyard will recommend how many to treat based on your bite, alignment, and cosmetic goals.
Will my teeth feel sensitive after receiving composite veneers?
You may experience slight sensitivity to hot or cold for a few days if the enamel was lightly prepared before placement. This is usually temporary and fades quickly as your teeth adjust. Most patients find composite veneers comfortable. Let us know if the sensitivity lasts more than a week.
How natural will composite veneers look compared to my real teeth?
When done properly, composite veneers can look very natural, especially in the hands of an experienced cosmetic dentist. The material is shaped and polished to match your real teeth in color, shine, and contour. However, they may not reflect light as naturally as porcelain veneers. Regular maintenance helps keep them looking lifelike.
Can composite veneers help with slightly misaligned teeth?
Yes, composite veneers can improve the look of mildly crooked or uneven teeth by reshaping and visually aligning them. They’re not a substitute for orthodontics if the misalignment is more severe, but they work well for small gaps, minor crowding, or slight rotations. Dr. Hillyard will evaluate whether veneers will give you the results you want.
Are composite veneers reversible or permanent?
Composite veneers are reversible since we remove little to no enamel during the process. They can be polished off or replaced but may need touch-ups or full replacement every 5 to 7 years. If you’re unsure about a long-term commitment, composite veneers are a more flexible starting point than porcelain.
Schedule a Dental Appointment Today
Composite veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry solutions in our Media, PA dental office. To learn more about what dental veneers can do for you, please call 610.566.0291. You can also schedule an appointment with one of our dentists online. We look forward to seeing you at your next visit.