What Are Minimal Prep Veneers?

added on: February 24, 2022
woman pointing at her smile

At Ponderosa Family Dental, your Bend cosmetic dentist, Dr. Benjamin De Graff has a variety of options to offer. That’s why we bring you the possibilities of both traditional porcelain veneers and minimal prep veneers for our patients. But what’s the difference between the two, and are there added benefits of choosing minimal prep veneers? Let’s dive in together and learn more about how you can totally transform your teeth, thanks to our advanced technology and treatment planning. 

What is a Minimal Prep Veneer?

Compared to porcelain veneers that require the alteration of your tooth’s enamel, minimal prep veneers are a bit different. They can often be applied without changing or removing your natural teeth drastically. When we need to modify your tooth enamel, it will be very minimal (just like the name suggests) and will not affect your dentin. 

What to Expect

Minimal prep veneers are your cosmetic dentist in Bend’s choice to restore and repair teeth when not quite as much strength is needed, the repairs required are more minimal, or our patients desire less tooth preparation. These are an especially great choice for young people or teenagers who have cosmetic or structural problems with their smiles. What sets minimal prep-veneers apart from other veneers is their ultra-thin profile. In fact, they are so slim, people compare them to contact lenses for your teeth! Of course, as with any of our cosmetic or restorative plans and procedures, we always spend plenty of time with you:

  • Discussing your needs
  • Showing you examples of completed minimal-prep-veneer cases
  • Reviewing what you want your smile to look like
  • And designing your look with you

The Benefits of Prepless Veneers

There are so many reasons to talk to your cosmetic dentist in Bend about minimal prep veneers that include:

  • Covering up various smile imperfections like chips, cracks, stains, and discolorations. 
  • Veneers can closely mimic the appearance of your natural teeth as they reflect light, just like tooth enamel. 
  • They are very good at resisting unwanted staining. Minimal prep veneers can hold their same shade years after completing your Bend cosmetic dentistry smile makeover.
  • With less preparation required for your enamel, you can always decide to go back to your natural smile because there’s been no dramatic alteration. 

Another benefit of minimal prep veneers is that when you brush and floss your teeth regularly, they can last for over a decade or more. 

If you’re interested in minimal prep or traditional porcelain veneers, now is the time to call Ponderosa Family Dental. You can easily schedule a consultation to assess your needs and goals before providing you with a comprehensive examination and consultation.

About The Author
Dr. Benjamin De Graff

Dr. Benjamin De Graff is a highly accomplished dentist with a decade of recognition as a "Top Dentist" in the Burlingame area. He holds specialty certifications in soft tissue lasers, SureSmile (clear aligners), and oral conscious sedation. He served as a faculty member at the Pacific School of Dental Hygiene Program from 2014 to 2019. Dr. Benjamin is committed to ongoing education, averaging 60-80 hours annually to stay at the forefront of dental advancements.