Want to Change the Shape, Color, or Appearance of Your Teeth?
Chips, stubborn discoloration, uneven edges, or small gaps can make you feel less confident about your smile. Dental veneers can improve the appearance of selected teeth by changing their shape, color, size, or overall symmetry.
At 97 Smiles Ann Arbor, our dental team will assess your teeth, discuss what you’d like to change, and explain whether veneers are a suitable option. We’ll also discuss alternatives, treatment steps, and costs so you can make an informed decision.
The basics
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are thin coverings bonded to the front surfaces of teeth to improve their appearance. They’re custom-made to suit the teeth being treated and the look you’re hoping to achieve.
Depending on your needs, veneers may help address:
Teeth with discoloration that doesn’t respond well to whitening
Small chips or worn edges
Minor gaps between teeth
Teeth that look uneven in shape or size
Certain minor alignment irregularities
Several cosmetic concerns affecting the front teeth
Veneers can change the appearance of your smile, but they don’t correct every dental problem. Significant crowding, bite issues, active tooth decay, and gum disease may require other treatment first.
Treatment options
Types of Dental Veneers
The best veneer option depends on your goals, the condition of your teeth, and how much tooth preparation is appropriate.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are custom-made restorations designed to mimic the appearance of natural enamel. They can improve the color, shape, and proportions of teeth and are generally resistant to surface staining. Porcelain veneers usually require some enamel preparation, and the process often involves more than one appointment. Once enamel has been removed, the treatment is generally irreversible, so it’s important to understand the long-term commitment before proceeding.
Composite Veneers
Composite veneers use tooth-colored resin to change the appearance of teeth. Depending on the case, the material may be applied directly to the teeth or fabricated as part of a more planned restoration. Composite options may involve less tooth preparation and can sometimes be repaired more easily than porcelain. However, composite resin may stain or wear more readily and may require maintenance sooner. Your dentist can explain whether composite veneers or another treatment would be appropriate for your needs.
Veneers Before and After:
(Images of before and after)
The basics
What Is the Veneers Procedure Like?
The process depends on the type of veneers selected and the condition of your teeth. Porcelain veneers commonly involve several stages.
1. Consultation and Smile Assessment
We’ll discuss what you want to change and examine your teeth and gums. Your dentist will assess whether veneers are suitable and whether any other treatment should come first.
2. Treatment Planning
Your dentist will discuss the proposed tooth shape, shade, number of veneers, and preparation required. You’ll also review the cost, expected timeline, and maintenance involved.
3. Tooth Preparation
For porcelain veneers, a small amount of enamel may need to be removed to create room for the restorations. The amount depends on the tooth and the planned result.
If temporary veneers are needed while the final restorations are made, your dentist will explain how to care for them.
4. Veneer Placement
Once the custom veneers are ready, your dentist will check their fit, appearance, and bite before bonding them to the teeth.
After placement, your dentist may schedule a follow-up to check comfort and make any necessary adjustments. You’ll receive instructions on caring for your veneers and protecting your teeth.
Do Veneers Damage Your Natural Teeth?
Veneers don’t automatically damage teeth, but traditional porcelain veneers often require removing some enamel. Because enamel doesn’t grow back, that preparation is permanent.
Veneers can also chip, loosen, or need replacement over time. Teeth underneath them can still develop cavities, and gum health remains important.
Before choosing veneers, ask your dentist how much enamel preparation your case requires and whether a less invasive option, such as whitening or composite bonding, could achieve your goals.
Are Veneers Right for You?
Veneers may be worth considering if you want to change the appearance of your teeth and your oral health is suitable for treatment. They’re not the best choice for everyone.
Your dentist will assess:
Tooth and gum health: Cavities and gum disease may need treatment first.
Your bite: Heavy biting forces or grinding can increase the risk of veneer damage.
The changes you want: Some concerns can be treated with whitening or bonding instead.
Your expectations: Veneers can improve appearance, but the result depends on your individual teeth and treatment plan.
Your willingness to maintain them: Veneers need ongoing care and may eventually require repair or replacement.
If you grind your teeth, tell your dentist before treatment. A protective nightguard may be recommended in some cases.
Insurance & payment
Does Insurance Cover Veneers?
Dental insurance often excludes veneers when they’re performed solely to improve appearance. However, coverage depends on the plan and the reason for treatment. Some restorative procedures may be considered differently when a tooth is damaged.
Our team can help you review your benefits and clarify whether your plan may contribute toward any part of the proposed treatment. Confirm coverage with your insurer before proceeding.
Financing Your Veneers
If you’re paying out of pocket, ask about the financing and payment options currently available at the Ann Arbor office.
Depending on eligibility and current availability, options may include third-party financing or in-house arrangements. Ask about approval requirements, interest or fees, payment terms, and the total amount you’ll pay.
Veneers need the same consistent attention to oral hygiene as your natural teeth. Good care can help protect the restorations and the teeth beneath them.
Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Clean between your teeth every day.
Keep up with routine dental checkups and professional cleanings.
Avoid biting fingernails, opening packages with your teeth, or chewing hard objects.
Tell your dentist if a veneer feels loose, chips, or changes how your bite feels.
Ask whether a nightguard is appropriate if you grind or clench your teeth.
Porcelain veneers resist staining better than natural teeth, but the surrounding teeth and the edges of restorations still need care. Your dentist can recommend suitable cleaning products and maintenance intervals.
Why Choose 97 Smiles for Veneers in Ann Arbor?
Choosing veneers is a significant decision because the treatment can permanently change your natural teeth. Here’s why 97 Smiles Ann Arbor is the right place for your treatment:
Personalized Treatment Planning
We’ll start by understanding what you’d like to change and assessing whether veneers are appropriate for your teeth. If another option may achieve your goals with less preparation, ask us to explain the difference.
Guidance From an Experienced Dentist
The Ann Arbor practice is led by Dr. Mason Haddow, DDS, a cosmetic and orthodontic dentist with over 20 years of experience. His approach combines evidence-based dental care with modern dental technology to assess patients’ needs and plan treatment.
Clear Recommendations
You should understand why a treatment is recommended, what alternatives exist, and what limitations to consider. We’ll explain the proposed approach so you can make a decision based on your goals and oral health.
Costs Explained Before Treatment
We’ll help you understand the proposed treatment costs and discuss applicable insurance benefits and available payment arrangements before you proceed.
Comprehensive Dental Care
Your gums, enamel, and bite all matter when planning veneers. If other dental concerns need attention first, we’ll explain how they relate to your cosmetic goals and the recommended order of treatment.
Your care team
Meet Your Ann Arbor Cosmetic Dentist, Dr. Mason Haddow
Dr. Mason Haddow
Ann Arbor Cosmetic Dentist
Dr. Mason Haddow, DDS, leads the 97 Smiles Ann Arbor practice. He is a cosmetic and orthodontic dentist with over 20 years of experience and uses evidence-based dentistry and modern dental technology to evaluate patients’ needs and plan treatment.
Veneer treatment requires careful consideration of tooth shape, shade, bite, and the health of the underlying teeth. Dr. Haddow and the dental team can help you understand whether veneers are suitable, discuss alternative treatments, and explain what the process may involve.
Your consultation is an opportunity to ask questions about enamel preparation, expected results, long-term maintenance, and costs before making a decision.
Helpful answers
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have a question? Our Ann Arbor team is happy to help.
Veneer lifespan depends on the material, your bite, oral hygiene, and habits such as teeth grinding. Porcelain veneers can last many years, but they may eventually chip, loosen, or need replacement. Your dentist can discuss the expected maintenance for your treatment.
Are veneers permanent?
Traditional porcelain veneers are generally considered irreversible because placing them often requires removing enamel. Before proceeding, ask how much preparation your teeth will need and whether a less invasive option is suitable.
Do veneers look natural?
Veneers can be made to complement the color, shape, and proportions of your teeth. The final appearance depends on the design, material, and treatment plan. Discuss your preferred look with your dentist before placement.
Can veneers fix crooked teeth?
Veneers may improve the appearance of some minor irregularities, but they don’t move teeth into new positions. Significant crowding or bite problems may require orthodontic treatment instead.
Can I get veneers if I have cavities or gum disease?
These concerns generally need to be addressed before elective veneer treatment. Your dentist will assess your oral health and recommend the appropriate order of care.
Do veneers stain?
Porcelain veneers are relatively resistant to surface staining. Composite materials may stain more readily over time. Natural teeth around the veneers can also discolor, so regular care remains important.
Are veneers better than bonding?
Neither is best for every situation. Veneers may be suitable for broader changes to tooth color or shape, while bonding can address selected minor chips and gaps with less preparation. Your dentist can compare the options for your specific concerns.
How do I book a veneers consultation in Ann Arbor?
Call 97 Smiles at (734) 316-9707 to ask about a consultation and available appointments.
If you’re considering veneers to change the color, shape, or appearance of your teeth, start with a consultation. You’ll have an opportunity to discuss your goals, compare treatment options, and understand the preparation, costs, and maintenance involved.