If you are exploring porcelain veneers to address your smile concerns, you should know that there are two major categories options: traditional regular prep or no-prep veneers. Are you looking for less invasive alternatives to traditional dental veneer treatment? Cosmetic bonding may be right for you.
There are many low prep and no-prep veneer options on the market today. Although not all cases lend themselves to being minimally invasive with tooth reduction, your dentist can tell you whether or not you are a candidate.
Traditional vs. No-Prep Veneers
This lady was considering cosmetic dentistry but didn’t want to have much drilling. We confirmed that her ideal treatment plan would be either minimal preparation or no-prep veneers. We fitted her with lithium disilicate Emax tooth covers for her teeth makeover.
Traditional veneer placement requires the removal of tooth structure equal to the thickness of the veneer. This allows the porcelain to lie flush with the other teeth. Sometimes more than just the enamel needs to be removed which makes the procedure irreversible.
With the development of stronger, more beautiful porcelains, we are now able to offer more conservative techniques. Low prep ceramics need to be extremely strong with minimal thickness.
With no-preparation veneers, there may be minimal preparation of tooth structure, but not to the extent required for traditional versions. There is no extensive grinding, cutting, or filing down. Because it is a less invasive procedure, there is often no need for a local anesthetic either, and patients can enjoy a lower risk of side effects. Both versions are adhesively bonded to the facial surface, or front, of the teeth.
How can these veneers be used?
This patient came up from Arkansas. She wanted “White and Bright” with very little drilling.
No-prep veneers are a suitable treatment for many conditions including:
- Gaps or spaces between teeth
- Correct size and shape
- Replacing existing composite veneers
- Worn down teeth
- Chips or cracks
- Stains or discolorations
- Misaligned teeth
- Misshapen teeth
- Discolored enamel
Covering the teeth vs. Bleaching
If you are satisfied with the shape and size of your teeth but suffer from discoloration, teeth whitening may be able to deliver the cosmetic results you desire. Our office offers take-home whitening kits that can be used in the convenience of your home. We are proud to offer Nite White Excel 3, a liquid gel that safely and effectively whitens your teeth while you sleep.
Whitening results are only temporary. Typically, the whitening results last around three years. Teeth that undergo whitening are still prone to staining while porcelain is stain resistant. If you want your new veneers to make a significant change in brightness, no-prep designs won’t work.
Porcelain vs. Composite Bonding
Composite bonding can alter the shape of your tooth. For patients who have minor chips or gaps, this dental procedure can be an affordable and quick treatment option. Cosmetic bonding only lasts a few years though. Porcelain versions can last several decades. Cosmetic bonding is best suited for addressing minor cosmetic blemishes on the tooth surface while porcelain cavers are capable of transforming a smile.
Common questions about low preparation designs
What determines if I qualify for no-prep veneers? If you are planning on receiving ceramic veneers but you are not choosing them for a very dramatic change, you may not require any type of prep. Teeth may already be ready for placement, in which case there is no need to remove any enamel.
When are Regular prep veneers required? We may decide that you will benefit from regular tooth covers because you require a more significant reduction for proper alignment. Perhaps you have significant problems with texture or want a dramatic change in the shape of your teeth. As a result, to create an impressive transformation and fit, prep is often required. Orthodontic treatment is often done to align the teeth so less or no drilling is required.
Will dental insurance cover the cost of my no-preparation veneers? Dental insurance typically does not cover elective cosmetic smile makeovers. If you have questions about payment plans or financing, please ask a member of our team.
How long do minimal reduction veneers typically last? The average national lifespan is around seven years. With proper care and good oral hygiene, they last significantly longer. High quality veneers will last a VERY long time. Once they are placed, you should take special care to not use the shells to open containers or wrapping. If they ever need replacing, the process is simple and straightforward.
Learn how no-prep veneers are a great alternative to traditional porcelain veneer procedures
Find out how you can change your smile without much or any changes to the front surfaces of your teeth.
Dr. Fondriest combines his impressive cosmetic experience with modern technology and caring, compassionate, knowledgeable staff. We proudly offer dental services to patients from Chicago and the North Shore and Northwest suburbs. We often serve patients from all over the United States. To learn more about esthetic restorative care, schedule a consultation, call our office today at (847) 234-0517.