Cosmetic Dentistry Services: What Are the Main Types of Veneers?

October 9, 2023

Dental veneers are very popular when it comes to cosmetic dentistry in Arlington, TX. Learn more about your options by clicking here.

Have you ever caught yourself hiding your smile during a laugh or avoiding photos because of your teeth? You're not alone.

Countless working adults find themselves self-conscious about their smiles, whether it's due to discoloration, gaps, or chips. These imperfections can dampen your confidence and overshadow your personality. But here's the good news: cosmetic dentistry in Arlington, TX, has evolved to address these very issues.

This article looks at how veneers can transform not just your smile but your entire outlook on life. From enhancing your appearance to boosting your self-esteem, read on to discover how the right choice of veneers can turn your dental insecurities into a source of confidence.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers stand out as a top choice in cosmetic dentistry for those seeking a natural-looking smile makeover. Crafted from high-quality porcelain, these veneers are tailor-made to fit seamlessly over your existing teeth.

They are particularly effective for correcting a range of cosmetic concerns, such as crooked teeth, minor gaps, chips, and even stubborn stains that teeth whitening can't fix.

The process involves a minimal reshaping of your natural teeth to ensure a perfect fit. The result? A stunning, yet natural-looking smile that blends beautifully with the rest of your teeth and offers long-lasting dental veneer benefits.

Porcelain-Fused to Metal Veneers

Taking durability up a notch, porcelain-fused to metal (PFM) veneers combine the aesthetic appeal of porcelain with the strength of metal. This unique combination makes them a reliable choice for those who need their veneers to withstand the rigors of everyday use.

PFM veneers are especially beneficial for back teeth that require extra strength due to their role in chewing. The process involves layering porcelain over a metal base to create a veneer that not only looks like your natural teeth but also stands the test of time.

Resin Veneers

Resin veneers are known for their robustness, making them an ideal choice for those who have habits like teeth grinding or clenching. These veneers are made from a durable resin material that can endure high-stress conditions while maintaining the appearance of natural teeth.

Their resilience doesn't mean you have to compromise on looks. Resin veneers can be crafted to closely match your natural teeth and ensure your smile looks as beautiful as it is strong.

Another advantage is their relatively quick and straightforward application process, which usually requires less tooth preparation than porcelain veneers.

Composite Veneers

For those looking for a quick and cost-effective way to enhance their smile, composite veneers are an excellent option. Unlike their porcelain counterparts, composite veneers can be applied in just one or two dental visits. This makes them a great choice for busy individuals seeking beautiful teeth without extensive dental work.

Composite veneers are sculpted directly onto your teeth, which allows for a high degree of customization. They are ideal for correcting minor cosmetic issues like small gaps or chips, and can be easily repaired if damaged.

Although they may not last as long as porcelain veneers, their ease of application and affordability make them a popular choice.

Zirconia Veneers

Zirconia veneers are the superheroes of the veneer world. They are incredibly strong and resistant to wear and tear, which makes them suitable for teeth with significant damage or those that require a more substantial restoration.

Made from zirconia, a material known for its durability, these veneers can withstand the forces of biting and chewing, even in cases where there are severe dental conditions. Their strength doesn't come at the cost of aesthetics. Zirconia veneers are crafted to look as natural and appealing as your own teeth.

Lumineers Veneers

Lumineers veneers are a breakthrough in the world of cosmetic dentistry that offers a less invasive option for those getting veneers. These ultra-thin veneers are about as thin as a contact lens and require minimal tooth preparation.

Lumineers are a great choice if you're looking for a quick and effective way to improve your smile without the commitment of traditional veneers. They are particularly effective for correcting minor cosmetic issues and delivering a healthy smile that's both beautiful and natural-looking. Plus, their thinner design means they can be applied more quickly.

Removable Veneers

Removable veneers offer a flexible and temporary solution for enhancing your smile. Unlike permanent veneers, these are designed so you can take them off as needed, which makes them a convenient option for special occasions or as a trial before committing to permanent veneers.

Removable veneers are made from composite resin and attach to your teeth with small posts. They are great for addressing minor cosmetic flaws, such as gaps or chips, and can be a good first step in the journey of caring for teeth and improving your smile.

They're easy to care for, and you can remove them before brushing or eating, which makes them a practical choice for many.

Palatal Veneers

Palatal veneers are a specialized type of veneer used primarily for the back surfaces of front teeth. They are an excellent option if you're looking to strengthen and protect your teeth from wear, especially if you have habits like grinding.

These veneers are often used in tandem with other dental treatments to provide a comprehensive approach to achieving a healthy smile. Palatal veneers are custom-made to fit your teeth perfectly and are typically used in situations where conventional veneers might not be suitable.

Cantilever Veneers

Cantilever veneers are a type of dental restoration used in situations where traditional veneers may not be feasible, such as when there's not enough tooth structure on either side of the tooth needing repair. These veneers are attached to one or more adjacent teeth, essentially bridging the gap and restoring the appearance and function of your teeth.

Your Gateway to Cosmetic Dentistry in Arlington, TX

In the heart of Arlington, TX, Heather E. Martinson, DDS emerges as a cornerstone of cosmetic dentistry. Our practice is more than just a dental clinic; it's a hub where artistry meets precision to transform your smile. We believe that a beautiful smile is a gateway to a radiant life, and our team is dedicated to making this a reality for you.

Ready to unveil the smile you've always dreamed of? Book your appointment today and let the journey to your best smile begin with the finest in cosmetic dentistry in Arlington, TX.

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Dr. Heather E. Martinson

D.D.S

Dr. Martinson has been serving patients and improving smiles through her work for the past 25 years. She attended both Southern University in Tennessee and the University of Texas at Arlington before earning her Doctor of Dental Surgery at Loma Linda University School of Dentistry in Southern California. She is a graduate of The Dawson Academy in Florida and the Schuster Center in Arizona, and has completed several cosmetic, implant and restorative continuing education courses. Dr. Martinson has also earned certification in the American Academy of Facial Esthetics. This allows her to provide Botox and dermal fillers to her dental patients.

The favorite part of Dr. Martinson’s job is being able to work closely with so many wonderful people and help them become healthier! And also help them to avoid heart attacks and strokes!

Dr. Martinson is married to Captain Myron Martinson (formerly a pilot with American Airlines). Together they have several 4-legged kiddos. When she is not busy at work, she enjoys bicycling, gardening, cooking, entertaining and traveling with family.

Dr. Martinson maintains active membership in the following professional organizations:

The Dental Implant Process Explained

By Heather E. Martinson, DDS • May 21, 2025

Undergoing a comprehensive surgical procedure, such as a dental implant, can be a big step. Still, studies like one by Tobias et al. (2025) report over a 97% success rate , even after five years. These show that it can offer significant long-term benefits with a reasonable guarantee of retention. So, if you are searching for a reliable solution to a dental issue, Dr. Heather Martinson, DDS, may be the one to choose for state-of-the-art implant surgery, but what does it entail? Below, our dental implants guide describes the dental implant process step-by-step to help you understand and feel more comfortable getting the smile you want. Explore each stage, from the initial consultation to attaching the crown. Then, discover what you might want to discuss with Dr. Heather Martinson, DDS, to ensure you get the desired results. Why Dental Implants are Our Best Fix for Missing Teeth Unlike crowns or fillings, dental implants are not a simple cap on an existing tooth . Nor are they intended to be temporary. Instead, they replace both the tooth's root and crown , preserving the jawbone and structure of the face by offering a complete prosthetic that the body should accept as its own. Titanium posts integrate with the bone and offer a very stable foundation for chewing. This is one of the reasons studies such as those by Kupka et al (2024) have found that dental implants often last for decades, with 80% continuing to last for over 20 years. With crowns, you will still need to be careful of what you bite into in case the prosthetic detaches from the tooth. However, implants can often restore the full force of your bite. For this reason, Dr. Heather Martinson, DDS , and her team prefer to use these prostheses, eliminating several difficulties one might encounter with other options. How Gaps Affect Function and Appearance We understand that it can sometimes be tempting to leave tooth gaps as they are due to the perceived hassle of installing a new implant. However, missing teeth can drastically impact the mouth beyond issues with appearance or speech patterns, as it can cause the jawbone itself to start "sagging" where the tooth no longer exists. Teeth may also begin to shift position, leading to bite issues. Early restoration via a professionally-implanted denture can prevent this loss and maintain the face's proportions. Perfect for maintaining a youthful visage. Why Implants Outperform Bridges and Dentures Bridges and dentures are critical parts of a high-quality dentistry offering . However, they do not tend to last as long as an implant due to how implants preserve the underlying bone. This fact may go a long way towards explaining why the NIDCR in the US has recently discussed a " fourfold increase " in the number of adults receiving dental implants over two decades. Still, that doesn't mean discounting these options. If you feel a bridge or denture may be best for you, you should discuss your options with our dental team . Discuss the pros and cons of each option. In some cases, implant-supported dentures are also available , allowing for a combination of both. Dental Implant Process Step-by-Step at Heather Martinson DDS Our implant procedure steps combine: Consultations 3D imaging Surgical planning Continual checks for precision Constant coordination with colleagues Using these, we can ensure that your results are accurate and efficient. Initial Consultation and 3D Scan The first step is always to take a detailed medical and dental history . Using this, we can determine if you have any risk factors, such as smoking habits, that we need to be aware of so we can help maintain your safety. Then, we will assess how your jaw aligns to ensure we do not interfere with this. Our advanced scanner can capture 3-dimensional images of every part of your mouth for precision-planning, including: Jawbones Sinuses Nerve canals Details of prior surgery We can even use this to preview the final outcome before surgery, allowing you to understand the most likely results and give a go-ahead from a position of knowledge. Precise Implant Placement Before the final crown "tooth" can be placed in the jaw, you will require surgery to install the implant itself. This implant is the structure that sits in your jawbone, maintaining the visible crown's position while preventing it from moving. This step involves local anesthesia or other forms of sedation to ensure your comfort. Then, the dentist will create a path for your implant to sit within your jaw. The implant is up to 5mm in diameter and up to 13mm in length, meaning it is robust enough to prevent damage due to torsion or other forces. After the placement, the dentist will use sutures and a protective cap to shield the site. During this healing phase, the implant undergoes "osseointegration," which is the growth of bone cells around the implant surface. This process takes up to six months to ensure it integrates with the body. Once the dentist is sure that your body has accepted the implant, they will reveal the site of the implant and perform a scan to ensure that an external lab can produce a perfect crown for the area, matching your prior teeth as closely as possible. After the final attachment, you can review the tooth , offering feedback such as colour adjustments or determining whether it needs minor alteration to match your bite. Long-Term Implant Care The Arlington, TX, dental care experts can offer advice and guidance on the best steps to ensure that the implant lasts as long as possible and remains comfortable. However, should you need anything else , their clinic will be available for you to follow up, so ask them for more details on how you need to schedule follow-up appointments to ensure you get the best results. Take the Next Step with One of the Best Dentists in Arlington After learning the dental implant process step-by-step , you should understand what it entails and be able to make better healthcare decisions. With over 25 years of experience in Arlington, TX, we can ensure your treatment focuses on improving your dental health and restoring your natural and healthy beauty using the latest techniques and advances. If you want to investigate the possibility of an implant, remember that you can always request a free consultation with Heather Martinson, DDS. Following that, you should be able to begin your journey to regain your full chewing ability and a confident smile.