If you’ve been dreaming of a brighter, straighter, more confident smile, dental veneers may be the perfect solution. Designed to enhance the shape, color, and alignment of your teeth, veneers are one of the most transformative and conservative options in modern cosmetic dentistry.
At Cosmetic Dentistry by Dr. Ned Shimizu, patients benefit from world-class credentials and personalized care. Dr. Shimizu is one of only 85 Accredited Fellows of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) worldwide and one of just three in Texas. With over 25 years of experience, dual DDS degrees from Hiroshima University and Loma Linda School of Dentistry, and an artistic eye honed through photography, Dr. Shimizu brings unmatched expertise and precision to every smile transformation.
What to Expect During the Veneers Process
The process of getting veneers is straightforward and painless, requiring only a few visits to our clinic:
- Consultation: We discuss your goals and evaluate your dental health.
- Preparation: The teeth are gently prepared for optimal bonding.
- Bonding: Veneers are securely affixed for a natural and lasting finish.
We strive to make the entire process as comfortable and stress-free as possible, ensuring you feel at ease throughout the process.
Long-Lasting Protection and Natural Beauty
Veneers are not just about enhancing your smile — they help safeguard it. Made from durable materials that resist common staining agents, such as coffee, tea, and wine, veneers maintain a brilliant, long-lasting shine.
Porcelain veneers offer superior durability and a lifelike appearance. Composite veneers are more budget-friendly and easier to repair, making them a great option for minor corrections or temporary enhancements.
Tailored Options to Suit Your Needs
Whether you prefer porcelain veneers for their elegance or composite resin veneers for their affordability, both types can enhance your appearance and boost your confidence. Each option has unique benefits, and we're here to guide you through the decision-making process with supportive, expert care.
Designed for Comfort and Confidence
Our veneer process is minimally invasive. It’s ideal for anyone looking to improve the look of their front teeth comfortably and safely. You can count on our team to prioritize your comfort throughout the entire process, from consultation to final results.
A Lasting Investment in Your Smile
Porcelain veneers are especially valued for their resistance to discoloration. With proper care, they provide a radiant and confidence-boosting smile for years to come, making them a secure and rewarding investment in your personal and professional life.
How Much Do Veneers Cost?
Our dental office offers a cost-effective solution for transforming your smile. Suppose you're considering 8 to 10 veneers. Depending on the condition of your teeth and the desired outcome, we will use a combination of no-prep (no-shave) veneers and porcelain veneers. The cost of each dental veneer ranges from $900 to $3000.
We also offer flexible payment plans to make the procedure more affordable for you.
The price of porcelain veneers may vary depending on the dentist and laboratory technician's experience, qualifications, and artistic skills, but rest assured — you're investing in a long-lasting, confidence-boosting smile. Our experienced professionals are committed to delivering the best possible outcome for you.
Types of Veneers
There are three types of veneers: Porcelain veneers (Traditional), non-prep or minimum prep veneers, and direct veneers. Each type has its unique benefits, and we're here to help you understand and determine which one is best for you.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers, also known as "traditional" or "regular" veneers, are a popular solution for those who want to enhance the look and function of their teeth. These custom-made shells are thin and designed to significantly improve the appearance of teeth.
Before attaching the porcelain veneer to the tooth's surface, the tooth's surface needs to be reduced by 0.5 to 0.7 mm (1/50"-1/36") to create a seamless fit and avoid a bulky appearance.
A drill with a diamond-coated head and a dental microscope subtly contours the tooth to provide a perfect bonding surface between the tooth and the veneer. Because the preparation is so minimal, there is no need to worry about the pain associated with the procedure.
These subtle adjustments aim to create the perfect aesthetic result while preserving your natural tooth structure and carefully removing enamel to create your ideal smile.
No-Prep or Minimally Prepared Veneers
The term "no-prep veneers" or "no-shave veneers" refers to veneers made of porcelain in the lab. These veneers aim to preserve tooth structure by minimizing tooth surface reduction, resulting in less reduction than traditional veneers. They bond and attach to the front of the teeth in a way similar to traditional porcelain veneers. However, one downside of this method is that the teeth may appear bulky, oversized, unnatural, and sometimes opaque.
The brand name Lumineer is a type of no-prep veneer known for its bulky and opaque nature.
No-prep veneers are best suited for individuals with small teeth who do not require significant changes in tooth color. Our clinic's primary goal is to minimize tooth surface removal whenever possible.
For instance, if a patient desires ten veneers, we may combine no-prep (minimal-prep) veneers and traditional veneers, considering factors such as tooth color, size, angle, and position. In general, you can expect to receive a combination of ten veneers.
Direct Veneers (Composite Veneers)
Direct veneers, also known as composite bonding, are a less standard dental cosmetic procedure compared to porcelain or no-prep veneers. They are generally more affordable than custom-made porcelain veneers and do not require a dental technician, making them a faster and more cost-effective option. Direct veneers involve applying a tooth-colored resin material directly to the tooth's surface. The composite material is then shaped and polished to match the surrounding teeth.
It's important to note that applying direct veneers requires skill and experience. The dentist's expertise is necessary and crucial when considering direct veneers.
We offer smile makeovers using direct veneers to enhance your smile's appearance in just one visit. Our smile makeover with direct veneers is an excellent choice for quickly enhancing the shape of your teeth to achieve a more attractive appearance.
These veneers give similar results to traditional or unprepared veneers but with some drawbacks. Direct veneers are made from non-porcelain material, and their surfaces can become stained over time. Additionally, the chair time is very long because a cosmetic dentist must apply composite resin layers from scratch.
While direct veneers may be more affordable than other material options, it's essential to consider their longevity. Composite resin, a tooth-colored material bonded to the tooth, is designed to last a long time, providing a durable and cost-effective solution.
How Long Do Veneers Last?
Veneers are quite durable under normal hygiene conditions. You can brush and floss them as usual with non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste. Advancements in materials and technology have enhanced the durability and longevity of veneers, offering you a secure and confident smile for years to come.
Traditional veneers, specifically porcelain veneers, typically last 10 to 15 years, while composite veneers have a shorter lifespan compared to porcelain veneers. However, the porcelain veneers can crack or shatter under abnormal pressure.
It would help avoid biting down on hard-surfaced items, such as pencils or nails. If you have habits like clenching or grinding, we can design a bite guard for you to wear at night to prevent your teeth from biting down on each other too forcefully.
Dental veneers can significantly enhance your appearance and improve your relationships with others in just a few visits. With the proper treatment, your smile will change, and your life and health will improve.
Composite Bonding vs. Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are an excellent alternative to dental bonding or fillings. They offer a more aesthetically pleasing alternative to composite bonding, providing a conservative approach to altering a tooth's color, size, or shape.
Composite bonding or direct veneers generally stain over time, while porcelain veneers do not.
Both veneers can conceal undesirable defects, such as teeth stained by coffee or tea and damage from an injury. They are also ideal for covering discolored front teeth.
Patients with gaps between their front teeth, missing or worn teeth, may want to consider obtaining veneers. Generally, veneers can last for many years, and the technique has demonstrated remarkable longevity when performed correctly.
No-Prep Veneers vs. Porcelain Veneers
No-prep veneers provide an alternative for those who are hesitant to have their enamel reduced. This method involves minimal to no enamel removal, making it a less invasive option for improving one's smile.
However, it's important to note that no-prep veneers are less effective at controlling opacity than porcelain veneers. The lack of tooth surface reduction can lead to a bulkier or more artificial (opaque) appearance.
On the other hand, porcelain veneers provide a natural appearance. The process involves meticulous preparation, including the removal of a thin outer layer of the tooth to accommodate the placement of veneers. Shaving surfaces ensures a seamless fit and allows customization to achieve the desired shape, size, and shade.
While preserving natural tooth structure may attract some, it's essential to consider the trade-offs. Choosing between porcelain and no-prep veneers depends on individual preferences, dental health, and aesthetic goals.
The Pros and Cons of Getting Dental Veneers
Understanding the benefits and limitations of dental veneers can help you make an informed decision about your smile makeover. Here's a closer look at what you should consider before choosing veneers:
Pros
- Prepping teeth for veneers is less invasive than prepping a tooth for a cavity.
- You can choose your preferred veneer color to have a custom look.
- Porcelain veneers have a natural look unless you pick a noticeable white color. They look whiter and straighter than natural teeth, but still natural.
- Porcelain veneers feel like your natural teeth.
- There is no special maintenance required after the porcelain veneers are seated, except for proper brushing, flossing, and regular visits to your dentist for routine cleaning. Veneers stain less than your natural teeth.
- Having a beautiful smile can increase your confidence.
Cons
- In most cases, teeth require surface shaving, a procedure that is irreversible.
- While porcelain veneers do not stain, composite veneers can.
- Veneers could chip or get damaged. Nail biting and using veneers as a tool could lead to surface chipping.
Why Choose Us for Veneers in Houston
At Cosmetic Dentistry by Dr. Ned Shimizu, we combine technical expertise with an artistic eye to deliver truly lifelike smile transformations:
- Dr. Shimizu is one of only 85 Accredited Fellows of the AACD worldwide and one of just three in Texas.
- Over 25 years of experience in cosmetic and restorative dentistry.
- International education with DDS degrees from Hiroshima University and Loma Linda School of Dentistry.
- Known for his precision, artistic skill, and commitment to personalized patient care.
Patients also appreciate the exceptional care and amenities offered at our state-of-the-art office in Houston:
- Convenient location at 11757 Katy Freeway, with easy parking access.
- Modern operating rooms are equipped with the latest cosmetic dentistry tools, including a dental microscope.
- Comfortable treatment chairs and a relaxing environment.
- Private consultation rooms to ensure you feel confident discussing your goals.
- A compassionate, highly trained team dedicated to your comfort and satisfaction.
Whether you're looking for subtle refinement or a dramatic makeover, our personalized approach ensures every veneer is crafted to your unique goals.
Ready to Transform Your Smile?
Contact our Houston office at 281-531-0710 to schedule your veneer consultation today. Discover how a confident, natural-looking smile can improve your life and health.
