Porcelain Veneers
in NYC

Porcelain Veneers Procedure Details

Your dentist will start by scraping about half a millimeter of enamel off the front of any teeth that he will be putting veneers on. This step is necessary so there is enough room in your mouth for the veneers to fit. Your mouth will be numb during this process, so you do not need to worry about experiencing pain. 

Next, your dentist will take an impression of your teeth so that a team can create custom veneers (made to your specifications) that fit perfectly in your mouth. Once a laboratory has completed this work, you will return to the office to have your new veneers permanently attached. 

What Are the Benefits of Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers cover minor tooth imperfections that affect your smile confidence. Chips, cracks, or severe discoloration may show when you smile or talk, and some people may smile with closed lips in photos and certain situations because they are embarrassed by their teeth. Porcelain veneers address cosmetic issues that bother you.

The porcelain material shines just like your natural tooth enamel for a natural look and feel. The veneer process preserves more of the tooth than dental crowns because only a thin layer of enamel is removed to fit the veneer. Veneers cover the front portion of the tooth, while crowns go over the entire tooth structure, so the whole surface area is reduced to accommodate a crown.

Porcelain veneers are made to match the shape and shade of your adjacent teeth and are stain resistant. Most patients have veneers on their front teeth, which can protect the underlying tooth structure from staining, but your adjacent teeth are still vulnerable to discoloration. Some patients have teeth whitening before porcelain veneers to enjoy a whiter smile because veneers don’t respond to bleaching agents.

This cosmetic dentistry option can address slightly misaligned teeth for a straighter smile without lengthy orthodontic treatment and provides a beautiful smile for up to 20 years with good oral hygiene and care. Porcelain veneers don’t require special care outside regular dental hygiene and are more resistant to cavities than natural tooth enamel.

Are Porcelain Veneers Right for Me?

Most people with healthy teeth and cosmetic concerns can qualify for porcelain veneers. These thin shells could be a good fit for you if you have severe tooth stains, cracks, breaks, chips, or misshapen or misaligned teeth. Severe tooth discoloration may not respond to teeth whitening, especially intrinsic stains in the dentin layer underneath your tooth enamel. Porcelain veneers provide a whiter, brighter smile and can help you avoid orthodontic treatment if you have one or two teeth that are slightly crooked, overcrowded, or gapped. 

Cosmetic dental work requires good oral health first. Our dentists must treat tooth decay, gum disease, or other concerns before permanent cosmetic improvement with porcelain veneers. Patients prone to clenching or grinding their teeth (bruxism) may not be good candidates for veneers because the porcelain material is more vulnerable to chips and may break off with teeth grinding. Severely misaligned or crooked teeth may need Invisalign clear braces or traditional orthodontics instead. Before getting porcelain veneers, patients should break bad oral habits, such as chewing or biting fingernails, pens, or pencils. You also need to have enough enamel for the required reduction. 

You may qualify for porcelain veneers whether you have just one pesky tooth that bugs you or multiple tooth flaws. You don’t have to live with small cracks or chips or be embarrassed by your smile anymore; Veneers can give you a smile you’re proud to show off to family, friends, and strangers on the street. 

What Is the Recovery Time for Porcelain Veneers?

The healing time after porcelain veneers is typically about two weeks, during which you may experience tooth sensitivity, soreness, and discomfort. Keep in mind that you may have temporary veneers for several weeks while your permanent shells are created at a dental lab. Your recovery depends on how well you follow care instructions, your oral hygiene routine, and how many teeth are treated with veneers. Most patients recover shortly after the placement of their permanent veneers. You shouldn’t need to take time away from work outside of your appointments at New York Smiles Institute.

Taking Care of Your Veneers

The average patient’s porcelain veneers survive about 10 years before they need replacement. However, it is not unusual for veneers to last 20 years or more for patients who take great care of their teeth. 

While veneers will not stain as readily as your natural teeth, they can still lose their whiteness over time due to your diet. It is a good idea to limit consumption of coffee, soda and red wine, all of which can gradually discolor your veneers. Also be mindful of chewing on hard objects (including non-foods like pens or your fingernails) that can cause your veneers to crack.

The other important thing to remember is that while veneers cover the front of your teeth, they do not protect them from plaque, cavities and other assorted dental issues. It remains as important as ever to brush and floss your teeth each day to keep your mouth healthy.

Make an Appointment

The outstanding dentists at New York Smile Institute have helped many NYC patients attain the smile they have always dreamed of. If you feel your teeth are lacking in some way and would like to upgrade them with veneers, schedule a consultation by calling (212) 319-6363.

Porcelain Veneers FAQs

How long do porcelain veneers typically last?

Porcelain veneers generally last between 10 and 20 years with proper care. Their longevity depends on your oral hygiene habits, routine dental visits, and other lifestyle factors. While they are highly durable, veneers may eventually need replacement due to normal wear.

Can porcelain veneers fix minor crooked teeth without braces?

Yes, veneers can be an excellent solution for slightly misaligned or uneven teeth. Often referred to as “instant orthodontics,” veneers can mask minor spacing or rotation issues, creating the appearance of a straighter smile without the need for braces or clear aligners.

Are there alternatives to porcelain veneers for smile enhancement?

Alternatives include dental bonding, teeth whitening, Invisalign®, and cosmetic contouring. However, each option has limitations. Veneers provide a longer-lasting, more transformative result, especially if you have multiple aesthetic concerns.

What foods or drinks should I avoid to maintain the color of my veneers?

Porcelain veneers are stain-resistant, but to preserve the uniform appearance of your smile, it’s smart to limit foods and drinks that stain surrounding natural teeth, like coffee, red wine, berries, tea, and dark sauces. Drinking through a straw and rinsing with water after consumption can also help.

How many veneers do most people typically get for a full smile makeover?

While every case is personalized, a full smile makeover usually involves 6 to 10 veneers on the upper front teeth, the most visible when smiling. You may also choose to include lower teeth for symmetry or broader enhancement.

Can I whiten veneers after they’re applied?

No, porcelain veneers cannot be whitened with bleaching products. It’s best to whiten your natural teeth before veneer placement to ensure an even color match. If your veneers become dull or damaged over time, they can be replaced to restore brightness.

How much do porcelain veneers cost in NYC? Are financing options available?

Prices for veneers vary depending on the material and the number of teeth treated. Costs are discussed during a consultation so you know what to expect upfront. New York Smile Institute offers financing options to help you plan treatment in a way that suits your budget and goals.

What’s the difference between porcelain and composite veneers?

Porcelain veneers are crafted in a lab from high-quality ceramic, offering superior durability, stain resistance, and a lifelike finish. Composite veneers are applied chairside in a single visit but are more prone to staining and generally do not last as long.

Do veneers differ for men and women?

Yes, veneer design is customized based on each patient’s facial features and aesthetic goals. Men often prefer a bolder, more square-shaped smile, while women may opt for softer, more rounded tooth contours. Smile design is always tailored to enhance harmony and individual expression.

What are some common myths about porcelain veneers?

A few persistent myths include the belief that veneers look fake, require excessive tooth shaving, or damage healthy teeth. In reality, modern veneers are ultra-thin, incredibly natural-looking, and preserve most of the underlying tooth structure.

How does digital smile design factor into veneer treatment?

Digital smile design allows you to preview their smile transformation using 3D imaging before any work begins. This ensures precise planning, ideal proportions, and full alignment with your aesthetic preferences.

Do celebrities really use veneers to achieve their perfect smiles?

Yes, many high-profile figures rely on veneers to maintain camera-ready smiles. From subtle refinements to full transformations, veneers are a trusted choice among public figures who demand flawless, photogenic results.