What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Veneers are a cosmetic dental restorative procedure that consists of shells of porcelain or composite resin shaped and bonded to the front of your natural teeth to improve their appearance. At Beach Dental Center, we have seen porcelain veneers tremendously improve clients’ confidence, when they had previously been self-conscious about imperfections in their teeth.
Who is a Candidate for Veneers?
Veneers are an excellent way to improve your smile. Patients often inquire about porcelain veneers who have:
- Surface discoloration of their teeth
- Chipped, broken, or worn-down teeth
- Uneven or misshapen teeth
- Unusually small or shortened teeth
- Tooth spacing issues, such as gaps (which veneers can close)
What Can I Expect from Dental Treatment with Veneers?
It will take a few weeks to make your custom porcelain veneers; but the treatment process is straightforward, usually involving several office visits. Here are the steps your treatment typically involves:
- Preliminary Consultation. Here, you will discuss your reasons for requesting veneers and set up a plan for the procedure. Your dentist may complete a clinical evaluation and take X-rays of your mouth and teeth.
- Taking an impression of your teeth. Your dentist will send to a dental laboratory for preparation. This takes approximately one to two weeks.
- Removal of a very thin layer (about .5 millimeters) of your tooth enamel to make room for your veneers. Your dentist will discuss with you whether you wish to have the enamel removed using a local anesthetic. (The newest type of veneers, known as minimally invasive veneers, does not require removal of a thin layer of your teeth’s enamel.)
- Fit veneers to teeth. When your veneers come back from the lab, you will return to your dentist’s office to ensure that they fit correctly. Your dentist will test the fit on each tooth you are having fixed, and repeatedly trim each veneer as needed. Your dentist will affix your veneers to your teeth with special dental cement. The color of the dental cement selected adjusts the color of each veneer. An ultraviolet light is then shined on your new veneers for 60 seconds, so that the dental cement hardens during the procedure.
- Follow-up visit. Your dentist will request that you come back into the office for a follow-up visit after a few weeks of your wearing your new veneers, to make sure they remain properly placed and your gums have acclimated to the new restoration. Comfortable veneers last longest.
How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?
One of the appealing aspects of porcelain veneers is their longevity. With proper care, these veneers can last 10-15 years or longer. Their durability is due to the high-quality porcelain material, which is resistant to staining and chipping. However, the lifespan of your veneers depends on your oral habits. Avoiding habits like grinding your teeth, chewing on hard objects, and maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine can help extend the life of your veneers and keep your smile looking great for years.
Improving Confidence with a New Smile
Porcelain veneers are not just about improving the aesthetics of your teeth—they can also significantly boost your self-esteem. Many people feel self-conscious about imperfections in their smile, such as gaps, stains, or misshapen teeth. Veneers offer an effective solution that can address multiple dental concerns simultaneously, giving you the smile you’ve always wanted. The result is often a newfound confidence that extends beyond just your appearance, positively impacting your social interactions and professional life.
Veneers for a Customized Smile Makeover
Porcelain veneers are a popular option for those seeking a complete smile makeover. Whether you’re addressing individual concerns or enhancing the overall appearance of your smile, veneers provide a customizable solution. Your dentist will work with you to determine the shade, shape, and size of the veneers to ensure they complement your facial features and natural tooth structure. The result is a harmonious, natural-looking smile that suits your unique aesthetic preferences.
Caring for Your Veneers: Do’s and Don’ts
While porcelain veneers are designed to be durable, proper care is essential to keep them looking and functioning at their best. Do brush and floss regularly, use non-abrasive toothpaste, and visit your dentist for routine check-ups. Don’t bite on hard objects like ice or pens, as this can cause cracks or chips. It’s also important to avoid staining foods and drinks like coffee, red wine, and tobacco to maintain the appearance of your veneers. With these precautions, your veneers can continue to enhance your smile for years to come.
Please contact us at 757-496-0993 or request an appointment online if you have any questions or concerns about obtaining porcelain veneers. At Beach Dental, we are eager to help you enjoy a beautiful, healthy smile — as well as new found confidence at work, play, and home.
