Dental Veneers Service in Bryn Mawr, PA
At Bryn Mawr Dental Care, patients can use porcelain veneers as an effective solution for tooth flaws (stains, chips, gaps, and curves, etc.). Dr. Dillon uses custom-made porcelain veneers that blend in with a patient’s natural teeth, create an aesthetically pleasing smile, do not stain easily, and have an expected lifespan of 10-20 years, provided the patient practices good oral hygiene. We’ve provided full-service cosmetic dental services to patients located in Bryn Mawr, Villanova, and Ardmore, in the Main Line area, for more than 50 years.
Your smile is important! No matter if you’re at a Bryn Mawr Film Institute movie, out with friends at The Grog on Lancaster Avenue, or giving an important presentation, you want a smile that makes you feel confident, not self-conscious about stains, chips, or gaps that won’t go away.
My name is Dr. David Dillon, and I have worked in dentistry for over 50 years. Dillon Family Dentistry has been providing porcelain veneers to transform people’s smiles here on the Main Line. I have placed veneers on many people, including teachers, business owners, and parents coaching their kids’ sports teams at Harriton Park. Each of them wanted a solution that looked natural, felt good, and lasted.
If you are hiding your smile due to cosmetic issues like stains that whitening cannot correct or gaps that bonding cannot fill, porcelain veneers may be what you need. We will discuss what veneers are, how they work, and if they are right for you.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Veneers made from porcelain are extremely thin (about the thickness of a fingernail) pieces of medical-grade ceramic that are permanently connected to the front of your teeth. They can be thought of as custom-made covers for your teeth that allow you to have control over your smile (e.g., color, shapes, alignment, etc.). Each veneer is made individually and will match your enamel’s natural translucency and shine, which is why high-quality porcelain veneers do not appear fake; they look like your own teeth, just prettier.
Unlike composite bonding, where you will have it done in 1 visit, porcelain veneers will be fabricated in a professional dental lab by trained ceramists. The level of craftsmanship that goes into making veneers results in veneers that provide excellent aesthetics, mainstream stain resistance, and a longer lifespan than composite bonding. The lifespan of porcelain veneers is approximately 10 to 20 years (or possibly longer with appropriate care).
Why Choose Porcelain Veneers Over Other Cosmetic Options?
I get this question all the time. “Dr. Dillon, why veneers instead of whitening or bonding?” Here’s the honest answer:
Teeth Whitening vs. Veneers
Whitening teeth through a professional means can assist with superficial stains such as orange juice, red wine, or age spots; however, there are many stains caused by medication (such as Tetracycline) or have been there since birth through enamel-fluorosis and on root canals that you had done 20 years ago. If you have been attempting to use at-home products and cannot get rid of the stains, using porcelain veneers can give you an everlasting colour change. Your selected colour will be matched perfectly by an experienced dental technician who matches the selected colour perfectly, and the colour will remain perfect for years to come.
Dental Bonding vs. Veneers
For minor gaps or small chip issues, bonding can be a good choice if you’re trying to save money and need the work done on the same day; however, bonding material is made of composite resin, which can stain and may last 5-7 years before needing to be replaced. On the contrary, porcelain veneers are more durable than bonding and do not stain as easily, plus they are shiny and can last between 15-20 years. If you have more than one tooth that needs treatment or you want an overall change to your smile, porcelain veneers would be a better long-term solution than bonding.
Invisalign vs. Veneers
Invisalign and standard braces are excellent alternatives when you have many crooked teeth or bite problems. If your teeth are just slightly out of line or rotated, covering them with Veneers can provide the appearance of straightening without spending months with a tray to straighten them. The options we can offer include first straightening your teeth to align them, then putting on your new Veneers so they look the best they can.
What Dental Issues Can Veneers Fix?
Veneers are incredibly versatile. Here are the most common cosmetic concerns I treat with porcelain veneers at our Bryn Mawr practice:
1. Stubborn Tooth Stains and Discoloratio
Deep-set stains that won’t respond to whitening treatments. Tetracycline staining, fluorosis spots, and dark patches from old dental work veneers cover it all permanently.
2. Chipped or Broken Teeth
Maybe you took an elbow during a pickup basketball game at Merion Green, or you bit down wrong on something hard. Chips and cracks can be structurally sound but cosmetically frustrating. Veneers restore the shape and protect the remaining tooth structure.
3. Gaps Between Teeth (Diastema)
Small to moderate gaps can be closed instantly with veneers. No braces, no aligners just a beautifully unified smile.
4. Worn or Shortened Teeth
Years of grinding (bruxism) or acid erosion can wear teeth down. Veneers rebuild the length and restore a youthful appearance to your smile.
5. Minor Misalignment or Rotation
If a tooth is slightly twisted or tilted, veneers can visually correct the alignment without orthodontics.
6. Uneven or Irregular Tooth Size
Some people have one or two teeth that are noticeably smaller or shaped differently. Veneers create symmetry and balance across your entire smile line.
The Porcelain Veneer Process: What to Expect
I believe in transparency. Here’s exactly how the veneer process works at Dillon Family Dentistry:
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Smile Design
We have an initial discussion about the problems with your smile, such as what you dislike about it, how you would like it to look, and if you want it to be a subtle change or a large change. I then look at your teeth to see how the bite fits and whether veneers are a good option for you. If other dental problems exist, like cavities or gum disease, you must take care of them before moving forward with a veneer treatment. The quality of your teeth affects how well veneers do.
We will also choose a color for the veneers, and, in general, I recommend choosing one of the more natural colors, unless you want a bright “Hollywood” type of smile. My goal is that the veneers will look just like your best teeth.
Step 2: Tooth Preparation
If you choose to get porcelain veneers, the first step is to remove a very small amount of enamel from your teeth (usually about 0.5mm or roughly the same thickness as a fingernail). This will allow the veneers to fit properly against the sides of your natural teeth without looking too large and give you a little more natural appearance. This is done while you are under local anesthesia, so you will be comfortable.
Many patients ask about “no-prep” veneers (Lumineers). These types of veneers are considered to be “ultra-thin,” therefore, very little or no tooth preparation is required to use them. They can be used in limited cases; however, they do not always provide an optimal result. If no enamel is removed prior to placing the veneers, it can cause the veneer to look very thick and bulky. The method that I choose for your veneer placement will be based on your needs and the desired look for your new smile.
Step 3: Impressions and Temporary Veneers
Once we’ve prepared your teeth, we’ll take an impression (or laser scan) of your teeth to send to a high-quality dental lab. Here’s where talented ceramists will fabricate your specific veneers by hand (this generally takes 1-2 weeks). While the fabrication is happening, we will fit you with temporary veneers to protect your prepared teeth and, more importantly, to allow you to get an idea of how your new smile will look. You’ll walk out of your first appointment not just looking good but also without any exposed tooth structure.
Many patients ask about “no-prep” veneers (Lumineers). These types of veneers are considered to be “ultra-thin,” therefore, very little or no tooth preparation is required to use them. They can be used in limited cases; however, they do not always provide an optimal result. If no enamel is removed prior to placing the veneers, it can cause the veneer to look very thick and bulky. The method that I choose for your veneer placement will be based on your needs and the desired look for your new smile.
Step 4: Veneer Placement and Final Bonding
Your permanent veneers will arrive, so you will return to have them placed onto your teeth. I will take off your temporary veneers, clean your teeth, and trial fit your new veneers to be sure the fit, size, and color are perfect for you. After that, I will make whatever required modifications before the final bonding occurs.
Once you are satisfied, I will bond each veneer onto your tooth using a unique dental adhesive and curing light. This bond is incredibly strong, stronger than the natural tooth structure. After bonding, I will polish every surface to a high shine and verify that the bite is correct. You will leave with your finished, permanent smile!
How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?
This is one of the first questions people ask, and it’s a great one. Porcelain veneers typically last 10 to 15 years, but many of my patients get 20+ years out of their veneers with excellent care. I’ve seen veneers I placed 15 years ago that still look fantastic.
Longevity depends on a few factors:
Quality of Materials and Placement: We use top-tier dental laboratories and premium porcelain. The craftsmanship matters.
Your Oral Hygiene: Brush, floss, and come in for regular cleanings. Veneers don’t get cavities, but the teeth underneath them can.
Your Habits: Avoid chewing ice, opening packages with your teeth, or biting hard objects. If you grind your teeth at night, wear a nightguard. I can make you a custom one here in the office.
Regular Dental Check-Ups: We’ll monitor your veneers at every cleaning to catch any issues early, like loosening or minor chips, before they become bigger problems.
Are Veneers Permanent?
The rationale behind the attachment of veneers to the teeth is to remove some enamel to allow for room to attach them. Enamel does not regenerate, so your tooth will always require some form of restoration due to losing the enamel, whether the restoration is through replacing the original veneers with new ones or through placing a crown over them.
This is why I put a lot of time into making sure potential patients understand the importance of having a successful consultation before getting veneers. This process takes time, and a patient will be required to wear their restoration for the foreseeable future, but for many people who are not pleased with their smile, receiving a long-lasting solution to their smile is worth the time spent to successfully create a lasting result.
How Much Do Porcelain Veneers Cost in Bryn Mawr, PA?
The cost of porcelain veneers will always be a factor, and I appreciate that. Porcelain veneers are considered to be an investment. In the areas of Bryn Mawr and Main Line, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 – $2,500 per tooth based on the type of work you have done, how many teeth need to be treated, and how many customization options are available.
To totally transform your smile (i.e., 6-10 porcelain veneers on your upper front teeth), the cost can range from $10,000 – $25,000. This may sound like a large amount of money (which it is), but if you spread it out over a period of 15-20 years, you could be looking at paying less than $100/month for a smile that you truly love. Factoring in some continued current treatment options for teeth whitening, additional bonding touch-ups, or how bad it feels to have to hide your smile for so many years, you can enjoy the benefits of having a beautiful smile.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Veneers?
Veneers are generally not covered under most insurance policies as they are seen as being cosmetic work; however, if you have damaged your natural tooth because of injury or due to it breaking down structurally, then there is a risk that some will cover the procedure. You should always contact your insurance company for verification on this matter.
At Dillon Family Dentistry, we work hard to make sure that you have access to the highest benefits available to you and your family, as well as giving you flexibility with payment options through third-party financing companies such as CareCredit, so that you can afford to pay for these procedures over time and receive little to no interest. This will all be discussed with you at the time of your consultation to ensure that you don’t have any unexpected costs associated with our services.
To totally transform your smile (i.e., 6-10 porcelain veneers on your upper front teeth), the cost can range from $10,000 – $25,000. This may sound like a large amount of money (which it is), but if you spread it out over a period of 15-20 years, you could be looking at paying less than $100/month for a smile that you truly love. Factoring in some continued current treatment options for teeth whitening, additional bonding touch-ups, or how bad it feels to have to hide your smile for so many years, you can enjoy the benefits of having a beautiful smile.
How to Care for Your Porcelain Veneers
Good news: Veneers don’t require any special maintenance. Treat them like your natural teeth:
Brush twice daily with a non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush.
Floss daily to keep the gum line healthy and prevent decay around the veneer margins.
Avoid staining agents like excessive coffee, red wine, or tobacco. Porcelain resists stains far better than natural enamel, but over the years, the margins can pick up slight discoloration if exposed to heavy staining.
Don’t use your teeth as tools. No biting fingernails, tearing open packages, or chewing ice. Veneers are strong, but they’re not indestructible.
Wear a nightguard if you grind. Chronic grinding can crack veneers over time. A custom nightguard protects your investment.
Schedule regular dental cleanings every six months. We’ll polish your veneers with non-abrasive materials and check for any signs of wear, loosening, or gum issues.
At Dillon Family Dentistry, we work hard to make sure that you have access to the highest benefits available to you and your family, as well as giving you flexibility with payment options through third-party financing companies such as CareCredit, so that you can afford to pay for these procedures over time and receive little to no interest. This will all be discussed with you at the time of your consultation to ensure that you don’t have any unexpected costs associated with our services.
To totally transform your smile (i.e., 6-10 porcelain veneers on your upper front teeth), the cost can range from $10,000 – $25,000. This may sound like a large amount of money (which it is), but if you spread it out over a period of 15-20 years, you could be looking at paying less than $100/month for a smile that you truly love. Factoring in some continued current treatment options for teeth whitening, additional bonding touch-ups, or how bad it feels to have to hide your smile for so many years, you can enjoy the benefits of having a beautiful smile.
Why Choose Dillon Family Dentistry for Veneers in Bryn Mawr?
I’ve been practicing dentistry on the Main Line for my entire career, and my family’s been doing it for three generations. My grandfather was a dentist. My father was a dentist. I learned early on that great dentistry isn’t just about technical skill, it’s about building trust, listening to what people actually want, and delivering results that make them proud of their smile.
Here’s what sets us apart:
Over 50 Years Serving the Main Line
We’ve been here in Bryn Mawr, Villanova, and Ardmore long before veneers became a household name. We’ve seen trends come and go, but our commitment to quality hasn’t changed.
Here’s what sets us apart:
Partnership with Top Dental Laboratories
We don’t cut corners on materials. Your veneers are crafted by some of the best ceramists in the industry. The result? Veneers that look natural, fit perfectly, and stand the test of time.
A Personalized, No-Pressure Approach
You’ll never feel rushed or pushed into treatment. We take the time to understand your goals, answer all your questions, and explore every option. If veneers aren’t the right fit, I’ll tell you. If there’s a less invasive solution, we’ll try that first.
Comprehensive Cosmetic Dentistry Services
Veneers are just one tool in our cosmetic toolbox. We also offer professional teeth whitening, bonding, Invisalign, dental implants, and full smile makeovers. If your case requires a combination approach, we can coordinate all of it under one roof.
Active in the Bryn Mawr Community
I serve as president of the Rotary Club of Ardmore and coach youth sports teams right here in the community. You might see me at a game at Harriton Park or grabbing lunch at The Grog. This isn’t just my practice, it’s my home. And I treat my patients like neighbors, because they are.
Porcelain Veneers vs. Composite Veneers: What's the Difference?
You might have heard of composite veneers, sometimes called “direct veneers” or “bonding veneers.” These are made from tooth-colored resin applied directly to your teeth in a single visit. They’re faster and less expensive than porcelain, but there are trade-offs:
Aesthetics: Porcelain reflects light like natural enamel. Composite resin is opaque and doesn’t have the same depth or luster. Porcelain veneers look more lifelike.
Stain Resistance: Porcelain is non-porous and resists staining. Composite resin absorbs stains over time from coffee, tea, and wine.
Longevity: Composite veneers last 5-7 years on average. Porcelain veneers last 10-20 years.
Cost: Composite veneers are cheaper up front ($250-$1,500 per tooth vs. $1,500-$2,500 for porcelain). But when you factor in replacements, porcelain often ends up being the more cost-effective choice over time.
I offer both options. If you have a small cosmetic issue and want a quick, budget-friendly fix, composite might work. But for a complete smile transformation or long-term results, porcelain is the gold standard.
Real Results: Veneers Before and After
I wish I could show you the before-and-after photos of some of my veneer cases. Patients walk in feeling embarrassed about their smile, and they leave beaming. It’s one of the most rewarding parts of my job.
I’ve transformed smiles for people preparing for weddings, job interviews, and milestone birthdays. I’ve helped patients who’ve been hiding their teeth for decades finally smile freely in photos. The emotional impact is real.
If you’re curious about what veneers could do for your specific situation, come in for a consultation. We’ll take photos, discuss your goals, and show you what’s possible.
Common Questions About Veneers: Answered by Dr. Dillon
Here are some of the questions I hear most often in my Bryn Mawr dental office:
Ready to Transform Your Smile?
Porcelain veneers may be the solution if you feel self-conscious about stained, chipped, gapped, or crooked teeth. They may not be the solution for everybody, but they can be transformative if they are a good match for you.
We have been providing patient-focused care in Bryn Mawr, Villanova, Ardmore, and the neighboring communities of the Main Line since 1968 at Dillon Family Dentistry. I utilize the newest techniques in cosmetic dentistry combined with my family’s 50-year legacy in patient-centered care to create a natural-looking and comfortable smile that lasts many long years.
Please call our office or fill out an online request form to schedule an appointment. We will meet in person, discuss your concerns, and develop a plan to move forward together without any pressure from us or any sales pitches. You solely receive straightforward and honest advice from an experienced dentist in your community.
Your smile is worth it! Let’s work together to achieve that.
FAQs
1. How much do porcelain veneers cost in Bryn Mawr, PA?
The cost of porcelain veneers at Dillon Family Dentistry generally varies from $1,500-$2,500 per tooth, while the overall cost of a smile makeover (6-10 veneers) is approximately $10,000-$25,000. We also have flexible financing available through CareCredit to help with affordability.
2. Are porcelain veneers worth it?
For individuals who want to obtain a long-term solution to cosmetic dental problems (ex, chips, gaps, or minor misalignment), porcelain veneers could be an option. They can last anywhere from 10 years to 20 years, are resistant to staining, and produce natural-looking results that enhance your self-confidence when meeting new people or interviewing for jobs.
3. How long do dental veneers last?
With the proper care that allows high-quality porcelain veneers to last for 10 to 15 years, most patients will receive at least 20 years of use from them. The length of time that porcelain veneers last largely depends on the patient’s oral hygiene, whether they avoid hard foods, whether they are using a night guard to prevent grinding their teeth, and attending regular dental check-ups.
4. Are veneers permanent?
Yes, getting veneers means stripping off a small layer of enamel from your teeth. Since enamel does not regenerate, you will need to maintain these restorations for your lifetime. Thus, we take the planning phase of your treatment very seriously and work hard to make sure veneers are the best option for you.
5. Do veneers ruin your teeth?
No, when veneers are fitted correctly by a qualified dentist, they provide protection and support for your existing teeth. The amount of enamel that will be removed will be small (around 0.5mm deep), and the bond between the veneer and remaining tooth structure is very durable, resulting in long-lasting protection.
6. What's the difference between veneers and bonding?
Bonding is when a composite resin is placed directly on teeth in one visit, is lower in cost ($300-$600/tooth) than porcelain veneers; however, bonding will stain easily and generally only last 5-7 years. Porcelain veneers are custom-made in a laboratory for each individual, resist staining, provide a more natural appearance, and last 10-20 years, but will generally cost more than bonding ($1,500-$2,500/tooth).
7. Can veneers fix crooked teeth?
Veneers are a means to improve the visual appearance of slightly crooked, rotated, or misaligned teeth. If your teeth have severe crowding, bite problems could also be treated with orthodontics such as invisible braces (Invisalign) or traditional braces. Dr. Dillon will evaluate each patient and determine on an individual basis how to best treat the patient’s concerns.
8. Will dental insurance cover veneers?
Veneers are considered cosmetic items by many insurance companies, so they typically do not have coverage under most plans. However, if it’s necessary to restore your tooth (from an injury or structural damage), you may have partial coverage options available. We can determine what your insurance may provide and discuss available financing options.
9. Does getting veneers hurt?
No, and you won’t experience pain because a local anaesthetic will be used while preparing the tooth(es) for the dental procedure. Short-term sensitivity on completion can last up to several days and can usually be managed with over-the-counter medications. Most patients find there’s relatively little discomfort associated with completing the procedures.
10. Can you get veneers on just your front teeth?
Most patients opt for 6-10 upper front (smile zone) porcelain veneers to achieve a complete transformation of their smiles at a reasonable cost. The number of veneers you will receive will be determined through consultation with Dr Dillon, who will help you create a custom treatment plan based on what you want your smile to look like.
11. Are veneers stain-resistant?
Yes. Porcelain veneers are highly stain-resistant and won’t discolor from coffee, tea, wine, or tobacco like natural teeth do. However, maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding excessive staining agents will keep them looking their best for decades.
12. How do I find the best veneers dentist in Bryn Mawr?
Look for experience, quality materials, and patient reviews. Dr. Dillon has served the Main Line for over 50 years, works with top dental labs, and offers personalized care. Schedule a consultation to discuss your goals and see before-and-after examples of veneer work.
13. Can veneers be whitened?
Porcelain veneers will not respond to any whitening treatments. Therefore, if you want to have your teeth bleached, do so before the placement of your veneers so that we can match the dye to the new colour of your teeth. This will give you a consistently bright and healthy-looking smile!
14. What happens if a veneer chips or breaks?
Porcelain veneers can chip due to traumatic events or bruxism, but smaller chips can often be polished smooth. Larger fractures usually need the veneer replaced. Using a nightguard and avoiding hard foods may help reduce the risk of chips.
15. Where can I get porcelain veneers near me in Bryn Mawr, PA?
For over 50 years, Dillon Family Dentistry has provided dental care services in Bryn Mawr, Villanova, Ardmore, and along the Main Line. Dr. David Dillon creates custom porcelain veneers and provides personalized service, without pressure to purchase. Make your appointment by calling 610-981-1997 or scheduling an online consultation.
If you have additional questions or want to learn more about our family dental services in Bryn Mawr, feel free to contact Dillon Family Dentistry. We’re here to ensure your family’s smiles stay healthy and bright!
A Confident Smile Starts Here
Book your veneer consultation at Dillon Family Dentistry today.