Chicago Porcelain Veneers doctors

The best way to desribe the difference between a crown and a veneer is that a crown covers the entire top of the tooth and a veneer just covers the front part of the tooth and leaves the inside part of the tooth untouched. This does not take into account all the variations of crowns, such as the materials used, if there is a metal base, etc. Also sometimes a veneer needs to cover more than just the facing of the tooth. There are times that a veneer may need to cover most of the tooth as well. In our office we don't really distinguish the difference with our all porcelain restorations, so as to avoid the confusion of semantics. One other difference is the veneer is ALWAYS bonded, where the crown can either be bonded or cemented.

Porcelain veneers can provide a completely improved smile in just a few appointments. Before getting veneers, it is important that you consider a few things. If you are interested in bleaching, now is the time to do it. Porcelain veneers will not change color. You should also start to consider what you are looking to enhance. Do you want to change the shape or size of your teeth? Do you want your teeth straighter? I ask many questions to help each patient express what they are looking for in their new smile.

Regardless of which porcelain veneer treatment is right for you-conventional, Lumineers or DURAthin veneers, or a combination of any of these, the most important choice is which dentist performs your smile makeover.  Make sure she/he has had extensive training in cosmetic enhancements. The number of pre-operative visits to work out details to ensure predictable results depends on the complexity of your situation and the changes you desire. 

Without knowing what your smile looks like right now, it's impossible to tell you which 4 teeth should be veneered.  In general, you want to start in the middle and work your way out, making sure to place them in pairs. Your dentist may be able to do a "mock up" so you can see what you may look like w/4 of your teeth veneered. Sometimes, if there are major changes that need to happen, it's best to wait until you can do it all at once. This link shows 4 no-minimal prep veneers- the rest of the patient's teeth and bite were in great shape.