Porcelain Veneers are not a “one size fits all” product, but rather a piece of art. So when a patient is looking for a dentist who does “porcelain veneers” they will quickly find out that everyone does porcelain veneers.

This, obviously, brings up the question of “How do I know the dentist has the experience to deliver what I want?”

Also, “How is one porcelain veneer different from another, and why does one cost more?”

All very good questions. The simple truth is that quality comes with experience and cost. Here is why:

The dentist needs to have the cosmetic background and experience to handle a large porcelain veneer smile makeover (one of the most difficult dental procedures), plus the dentist needs to work with a talented and experienced laboratory technician who will fabricate the porcelain veneers.

I challenge you all to ask your dentist at your next crown or veneer appointment this incredibly important question: “WHO is the lab technician that will fabricate this restoration we are doing today, and can I speak to them?”

Most of the time there will be a blank stare and then a “lab name” will be thrown out. This lab may have hundreds of technicians, most learning or simply “production” oriented, not quality oriented. You need to know the person, the technician, the artist that will create your dentistry, if you want premium quality.

A good porcelain veneer is a piece of art, hand sculpted to deliver everything the patient and doctor were looking for.

A good porcelain veneer fits like a glove, enhancing the beauty of the tooth – becoming part of the tooth.

Poor porcelain veneers are bulky, square, mass produced pieces of porcelain that have given many patients smiles they are ashamed of.

A smile makeover is a big decision that is not to be taken lightly. Once you are ready to get a smile you will love that fits you and your teeth perfectly, consider getting to know not only your dentist, but your artist/technician.

Keep smiling.