Dr. Diana M. Rangel, an expieriened cosmetic dentist, presents teeth veneers as likely artificial fingernails that fit over the front and edges of the teeth, improving the form, color, and contour of the teeth, they are made of two commonly used materials in cosmetic dentistry: porcelain and composite resin.

Porcelain, as he mentions, is like a glass substance also known as ‘ceramic’, it is the most durable and appealing type of veneer. Composite resin, commonly known as bonding, is the second approach, in which the dentist uses his artistry and skill to manufacture the veneer directly onto the patient's teeth.

We agree with Dr. Diana M. Rangel that one of the most important factors is the patient's desire and expectations; some patients want natural-looking esthetic outcomes, while others want more esthetic than natural; it is entirely up to the patient.

Also, In The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, we find that ceramic veneers can improve the cosmetic look of teeth while also restoring their strength and function. Various researchers affirm that in worn anterior teeth, functional surfaces can be efficiently restored, since the mechanical and optical properties, make this material an excellent choice for restorations.

There is a lot of research concerning the durabiliry of ceramic laminate veneers, in comparison to full-coverage crowns. Ceramic veneers, as shown in several science articles, are a less invasive restorative dentistry treatment option and it can be used to improve tooth form, position, and color. Also, when compared to typical metal ceramics, bonded treatments, like dental ceramic laminate veneers, are associated with fewer secondary caries and gingival irritation.

When applied by an experienced operator and with appropriate patient care, ceramic veneers are highly esthetic restorations with predictable long-term results.

In a clinical study, made in the University of Zurich, there was no significant difference found in patient satisfaction with composite or ceramic laminate veneers after insertion, but after two years of clinical care, patients were substantially happier with the ceramic restorations. These are some of the sudy’s results: The survival rates for veneers are 94% for porcelain restorations, 90% for indirect composite restorations and 74% for direct composite restorations; the failures observed are mainly cohesive or adhesive problems.

Each type of material has its own composition and fabrication method. As a result, the permanency of veneers varies depending on the material employed, the dentist's expertise and the maintenance and care the patient gives.

Veneers do not hurt! There is no post-operative pain observed in practice or evidence of inflammation, since it is a minimally invasive procedure.

Dentists indicate that whitening is not effective on porcelain veneers and most bonding materials, once they are in your mouth, however, they can be whitened before being installed; depending on the porosity of the material, non-porcelain veneers and other prosthesis may become discolored and plastic prosthesis are likely to darkening over time, but they can be polished by your dentist.

We agree that the cost of veneers depends on many factors. As Dr. Hughes mentions, porcelain veneers are made by a dental technician, these may be more close to ‘perfect teeth’, in the other side, composite resin veneers are done by the dentist directly on the tooth and require the dentist’s skill, which will give it a more natural look, again, it is the patient’s choice. Laboratory-made veneers will cover an additional fee (that the dental technician will charge), whereas composite veneers don’t have that fee and are usually half the price of porcelain veneers; in both cases the cost is typically given on individual teeth.

Coverage on this treatment will depend on your your State, coverage of your insurance policy and also if the veneers are necessary medically.