Traditional Vs. Minimal Prep Veneers: Which Is Right For Me?

There’s no question that dental veneers are one of the most transformative tools available in modern cosmetic dentistry. With their ability to conceal stains, hide gaps, and create a bright, even, natural-looking smile overall, it’s easy to see why thousands of men and women turn to veneers each year. At Cosmetic Dental Studios in NYC, top Manhattan celebrity dentist Dr. Victoria Veytsman offers the most cutting-edge veneer options available today, including traditional porcelain veneers and minimal prep ceramic veneers. Read on to learn more about the difference between traditional and minimal prep veneers, and find out which solution may be the best fit for you.

Am I a candidate for veneers?

Virtually any patient with good oral health and a desire to improve the appearance of their smile can be considered a candidate for dental veneers. Common concerns that can be dramatically improved with the application of veneers include:

• Chipped tooth
• Uneven teeth
• Long or short teeth
• Small teeth
• Stained teeth
• Dull teeth
• Yellow teeth

Depending on your specific concerns, goals, and overall dental and oral health, Dr. Veytsman may recommend either traditional porcelain veneers or minimal prep ceramic veneers to help you achieve your ideal smile.

What’s the difference between traditional and minimal prep veneers?

Traditional dental veneers remain one of the most popular options today and offer a number of benefits. In most cases, traditional veneers are created from porcelain, making them highly durable and natural looking. Minimal prep veneers can also transform a person’s smile, though they are often made of ceramic or another material and are typically thinner and/or more translucent than porcelain veneers. For this reason, patients with darker staining or more extensive concerns may be better served by traditional veneers.

The most notable difference between minimal prep vs. traditional veneers is the application process. Traditional veneers require a fairly substantial amount of the tooth’s natural surface to be removed, which allows Dr. Veytsman to create a strong bond and a smooth, even, natural-looking smile. Because a great deal of the tooth’s enamel is removed during the traditional veneer preparation process, local anesthesia is used to keep the patient comfortable. Temporary veneers will then be set in place to protect the teeth and keep the patient comfortable while their permanent veneers are being created.

Minimal prep veneers, on the other hand, require very little – if any – preparation of the tooth. Because minimal prep veneers are exceptionally thin, they are often able to fit comfortably over the tooth without removing much of its natural structure. Patients do not typically require local anesthesia or numbing for minimal prep veneers, and temporary veneers are not usually needed since the natural tooth remains intact.

In both cases, an impression of the teeth will be made so that the veneers can be customized to your mouth. After 2 – 3 weeks, the veneers will be sent back to Dr. Veytsman’s office, where she will bond them securely to your teeth and make adjustments as needed to ensure a stunning and natural new look.

Should I get minimal prep veneers or regular veneers?

During your initial consultation for cosmetic veneers in Manhattan, Dr. Veytsman will evaluate your teeth, discuss your concerns, and help you decide which type of veneers are right for you. Whether you choose minimal prep or traditional veneers, the smile of your dreams is within reach.

Get the celebrity smile you deserve with dental veneers in New York City

If you are embarrassed by stained, uneven teeth or simply want to elevate your look, we can help. Join the many men and women who have achieved their dream smile with dental veneers by calling Cosmetic Dental Studios NYC in Manhattan, NY to schedule your one-on-one consultation with celebrity dentist Dr. Victoria Veytsman today.