The Veneer Boom: The New Era of Cosmetic Dentistry

Is it just my Instagram algorithm or does it seem like everyone is talking about veneers lately? It’s probably just my dental saturated feed, but there has definitely been a dramatic rise in the emphasis on cosmetic dentistry lately, and it feels like every celebrity is sporting the perfect smile.

The History

Veneers actually first became popular in the early 80s, following the development of techniques allowing porcelain to be permanently bonded to teeth. They achieved mainstream adaptation in the 90s and 2000s as materials improved, becoming thinner, stronger and more natural looking. The demand to fix stains, gaps, and chips increased with the option of dental veneers.

Then came the rise of social media, influencer culture, and the COVID Zoom era, where everyone stared at their own faces for hours on end. This brought about a boom in the cosmetic industry: makeup, skincare, plastic surgery, cosmetic dentistry, etc.

From a professional perspective, veneers are more exciting than ever, with an abundance of high-quality continuing education and training, improved technology, and materials. It’s never been more accessible for providers to excel at expert-level cosmetic dentistry.

What is a Veneer?

Veneers are thin, custom-made porcelain shells that are bonded to the front surfaces of teeth to improve appearance. They are a minimally invasive solution used to correct cosmetic flaws like gaps, discolorations, and malalignments. They can often last 10-15 years or longer with proper care.

FAQs

Q: Do you have to shave down your teeth?

A: Not necessarily. This is based on the individual’s teeth and overall goals.

The “no prep” veneer is having a huge moment in dentistry, but not everyone is a good candidate. Most people will need some level of enamel shaping in order to achieve ideal esthetics. Enamel removal is usually minimal for veneers.

Q: Can veneers stain or whiten?

A: Porcelain veneers are more stain-resistant than natural teeth, but they cannot be whitened.

Q: How many do I need?

A: This depends on the goals of your smile enhancement, but often a high-level full smile makeover requires 6-10 veneers.

Q: How much does it cost?

A: This varies greatly depending on your general location and the provider’s experience or popularity. Veneers can generally cost $800-2,500 but the most renowned “celebrity dentists” on social media can charge upwards of $5,000 per tooth and have a set minimum number of teeth they treat at a time.

Q: Can I eat anything I want with veneers?

A: While durable, patients should avoid biting really hard foods with their veneers or using their teeth as tools to open packaging, etc. It is usually recommended to wear a nightguard or retainer at a minimum at night to protect against the damage caused by clenching and grinding.

Q: What’s the difference between porcelain and composite?

A: Porcelain is considered more durable and stain-resistant. Composite is less expensive and may require less tooth modification, however may need to be replaced more often. Generally speaking, composite veneers have cosmetic limitations compared to porcelain.

Treatment Alternatives

Despite the rise of veneers and perfect smiles everywhere, there are plenty of ways to achieve your most gorgeous or handsome smile without veneers. Teeth whitening can make a huge difference cosmetically. Another hugely impactful treatment is  aligning your teeth with an orthodontic option like Invisalign. 

These two treatments alone can completely  transform your smile. A small change with composite bonding or enamel polishing can be an additional way to make a big impact. Most reputable dentists are highly trained in cosmetic dentistry and are happy to discuss which option might be best for you. Personally, I love a conservative smile makeover when possible.

Dr. Emily Dodds is an experienced general and cosmetic dentist and co-owner of Dodds Dental in Long Beach. She graduated magna cum laude from the esteemed Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston and completed an advanced general dentistry residency. Most recently, she obtained her Masters in Public Health with a dental emphasis from A.T. Still University. Dr. Dodds is dedicated to providing personalized, high-quality comprehensive dental care in a comfortable environment. If you want to experience dentistry differently, call 562-439-0754 to schedule a new patient visit.