Partial veneers are the perfect solution for those with less-than-perfect teeth. Whether you have a cracked tooth, discoloration, misalignment, gapped teeth, or irregularly shaped teeth, partial veneers can help transform your smile.

If you're interested in getting veneers for your teeth, read on to learn what partial veneers are, what the process entails, general costs, and the difference between partial and snap-on veneers.

What are Partial Veneers?

Partial veneers serve as a replacement for eroded tooth enamel. Lost tooth enamel can't be replaced with natural substances, which is why partial veneers are generally used in their place to protect the teeth from surface damage and further sensitivity. 

One key distinction to note with partial veneers is that they do not extend all the way to the back. Partial veneers are considered a cosmetic technique and are meant to hide minor tooth damage. This means they only cover a small portion of the tooth surface. 

But just like full veneers, partial veneers are effective at strengthening and supporting the structure of the tooth without altering the external appearance of your face. In fact, partial veneers look just as natural as your real teeth, enabling you to improve your smile with confidence. 

Benefits of Partial Veneers

Partial veneers are becoming an increasingly popular option for patients. Aside from its affordability, one of the main benefits of getting partial veneers is how discrete it is. You don't have to walk around feeling as if others can tell you've gotten work done. Partial veneers blend in so well, you won't even realize they're there. 

Not only that, but partial veneers offer optimal comfort for patients. You won't need to experience the discomforts that often come with more invasive procedures, which is perfect for those who are looking to get right back to their daily activities. 

If that's not enough, the chances of your partial veneers becoming damaged or discolored are very slim. This is because partial veneers are paper-thin, and made out of porcelain or composite material that's bonded directly to the damaged tooth. 

The Process of Partial Veneers

The good news is that the process of getting partial veneers is relatively simple. But keep in mind that the process can take some time to complete. Here is a detailed look at what you can expect. 

Step 1: Consultation

Before anything else, you will partake in an initial consultation in which your dentist will examine your teeth and diagnose the problem. Your dentist will also use this time to determine whether you are a good candidate for partial veneers. Depending on the situation, your dentist may also need to take some x-rays to see which teeth need to be corrected. 

Step 2: Preparation and Molding

The next step in the process is preparation and molding. Your dentist will prepare your damaged tooth for the veneer. You and your dentist will also decide whether local anesthesia is needed and how much is suitable for you based on your pain tolerance. It's important to note that many patients feel little to no pain while getting partial veneers done. However, some patients are more sensitive than others. 

Next, the dentist will take an impression of your teeth that will be sent to a dental laboratory or manufactured on site if the appropriate equipment is at the office.

As a rule of thumb, impressions generally take about 2-4 weeks to complete. If this time frame feels too long, there is an option to get temporary dental veneers in place while you wait for your permanent partial veneers to be put on. 

Step 3: Bonding

The last step in the process is bonding. This occurs once the tooth has been fully prepped. But before cementing the tooth, your dentist will ensure that it's the correct shape, size, and color by placing it against the tooth. 

Assuming that everything is correct, the partial veneer will be installed with the cement. Once the veneer is installed, your dentist will shine a bright beam directly on the tooth with the newly placed veneer.

This beam of light activates the chemicals in the bonding agent, which causes it to quickly harden and hold the veneer in place permanently. Any excess cement will be removed and the dentist will test your bite to ensure that all of your teeth are aligned correctly. 

How much do Partial Veneers cost?

The cost of veneers is based largely on the type of veneers you're getting and how many teeth are affected. Here is a general guideline for what you can expect to pay for veneers. 

• Porcelain veneers: $925-$2500 per tooth
• Composite resin veneers: $600-$1500 per tooth
• Lumineers: $800-$2000 per tooth
• Temporary veneers: $470-$600 per tooth
  
  

Partial Veneers vs. Snap-on Veneers

Partial veneers and snap-on veneers often get confused with one another. These two veneer options have a lot of similarities, but they also have key differences to consider for your needs. Let's take a look at the difference between the two. 

Snap-on veneers allow you to put a new smile over your existing teeth. It is similar to the Invisalign aligner tray. However, snap-on veneers don't provide a clear appearance. Instead, the composite resin is shade-matched to look like your natural teeth.

For individuals with crooked teeth, gaps, or missing teeth, a snap-on smile could be a temporary solution. With that said, snap-on veneers are similar to partial veneers in that they blend in with your smile seamlessly. But the key difference is that snap-on veneers can be removed at your convenience, whereas partial veneers are a permanent procedure. 

Snap-on veneers can be a great alternative to partial dentures. Snap-on veneers are a non-invasive solution that is more affordable for those looking for a budget-friendly option. Additionally, they look like real teeth, provide you with a natural appearance, and don't require a visit to the dentist. 

With proper care, snap-on veneers will last anywhere between 3 and 5 years. In contrast, partial veneers can last as long as 15 years before they need to be replaced. 

Enhance Your Teeth with Partial Veneers

If you're interested in enhancing the appearance of your teeth, consider snap on veneers as an alternative to partial veneers. Snap-on or clip-on veneers, are discrete, comfortable, and help you achieve a more comfortable smile.

At Trusmile Veneers, we want to help our patients achieve their best smiles yet. If snap-on veneers sound like the right option for you, contact us today to find out whether you're a candidate..