Glenn Teubner, DDS, discusses what patients need to know about dental veneers.

People often say that a smile goes a long way. But many things can interfere with a person’s smile, both cosmetically and in terms of dental health. Veneers can improve a person’s smile, their overall confidence, and even their wellness. Whether they are used for cosmetic or functional purposes, veneers can positively impact people of all ages and backgrounds.

Veneers are versatile tools in the dental world. But what are they exactly?

“Veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of teeth,” says Dr. Glenn Teubner with Capital City Dentistry.

Veneers act just like real teeth, especially in the sense that they require diligent and proper dental care in the form of brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups with a dentist. They are extremely durable and can last up to 15 years or more with proper oral care. They mimic the natural appearance of real teeth and are overall very stain-resistant, especially when it comes to porcelain veneers.

Veneers can be a much simpler and less invasive option than dental crowns. They are appealing to some patients because they provide dramatic changes in very little time and are almost instantly gratifying, only taking a couple of sessions to complete. Veneers can also be personalized and specially tailored to each person’s smile.

“Veneers can also be used in full mouth reconstruction cases to replicate natural-looking enamel after erosion or acid wear.”

Dr. Glenn Teubner

Most veneers are made of porcelain or composite resin and are bonded to the surface of a tooth to enhance its overall appearance. Veneers can both make teeth look better and improve the functionality of teeth. They can be used to correct discolored teeth from things like medications or root canals, can help repair broken or cracked teeth, and can smooth out worn-down teeth.

“Veneers can compensate for uneven, misaligned, and gapped teeth as well,” says Dr. Teubner.

In addition to these common reasons to get veneers, there are some less common reasons as well. One of the lesser-known reasons is to improve speech. Sometimes, gaps in teeth or irregular tooth size can lead to speech disturbances or issues. Veneers can help improve this issue significantly by making all the teeth more uniform.

“Veneers can also be used in full mouth reconstruction cases to replicate natural-looking enamel after erosion or acid wear,” explains Dr. Teubner.

Veneers can be used to improve the overall health and confidence of people of all ages. Adults ranging from 20 to 60 years old, however, are the primary candidates for veneers and make up the largest percentage of recipients.

“Older adults, or anyone over 50 years old, are more likely to use veneers to restore a more youthful appearance,” says Dr. Teubner.

However, adults from 18 to 25 can also benefit from veneers, especially in circumstances where dental reconstruction is needed after an injury or accident.

“People with severe misalignment, weak enamel, or active gum disease may need other treatments first,” says Dr. Teubner.

At Capital City Dentistry, they offer several things in the realm of veneers for patients to consider. According to Dr. Teubner, they offer comprehensive smile assessments, the highest standard porcelain veneers, minimally-prep veneers for a conservative approach to the process, same-day composite veneers, smile design consultations, and flexible payment plans and financing.

Regardless of a person’s reasons for getting veneers, the type that they choose, or at what age they choose to pursue them, veneers are clearly a beneficial instrument in the dental world.