Porcelain veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry treatment that dentists use to enhance the appearance of your teeth. A dental veneer is a thin shell of porcelain that the dentist will bond to the front of a tooth. It aims to improve that tooth’s color, shape, size, or overall appearance. Each tooth veneer is custom-made from impressions to fit perfectly and is designed to look like a natural tooth. Stone Creek Dental offers porcelain veneers in Denton, TX, for patients who want a permanent improvement to their smile.
The Porcelain Veneers Process
Getting your dental veneers put on will take about two or three visits. Generally, it involves consultation and exam, teeth preparation, and placement of the porcelain veneers. The consult ensures you qualify for them and that no underlying dental problems must be addressed.
Your dentist will need to prepare your teeth at the next visit. This involves removing a thin layer of enamel from the front of each tooth. In doing this, your dentist will make room for the dental veneers so they will not look bulky or unnatural.
After that, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth. A dental lab will use these impressions to custom-make your teeth veneers.
During your last visit, the dentist will place the porcelain veneers on your teeth to check the fit and color. Adjustments can be made if necessary. When you and the dentist are satisfied with the fit and appearance of your veneers, we will bond them to your teeth.
The Benefits of Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are an ideal dental restoration for various different reasons. That’s why they’re one of our office’s most popular treatment options. They bring benefits to the table and also treat many different conditions.
Treating Multiple Conditions
There aren’t many cosmetic conditions that porcelain veneers can’t treat. While we usually treat discolored teeth with professional teeth whitening, not all discoloration responds to these methods. We can color-match porcelain veneers to whatever shade of white you desire. They cover the front and sides of your teeth, meaning none of the discolored teeth are in view.
Porcelain veneers can take years off of your smile. Over time, teeth get worn down and are more prone to little chips and cracks. Veneers restore the fullness of your tooth and repair any damage that’s taken place. Due to this, they take years off of your smile. Your teeth will all be in the correct shape and size for your mouth. They’re in the right placement, giving you a beautiful, straight smile. An even, straight smile includes closing the small gaps between teeth.
Looks and Durability
Porcelain veneers are one of the most natural-looking restorations you can get. Porcelain is translucent, just like your natural teeth. This gives it a nice sheen that other restorations can’t match. Veneers often blend seamlessly, and it’s difficult to tell which of your teeth are natural and which have veneers.
Porcelain is also known to be stain resistant. It holds up well to things like coffee, black tea, wine, and other staining foods and drinks. You don’t have to worry about your teeth or restoration staining easily. Treatments like dental bonding can stain fairly easily, but porcelain can hold off that discoloration.
Veneers are one of the most durable restorations. They can easily last for 10-15 years or more, depending on how well you take care of them. Porcelain is a high-quality material and we use durable dental cement to secure it to your tooth. You should be able to eat normally when you have them.
Improving Tooth Functionality
Veneers don’t just have cosmetic benefits. They can benefit your oral health as well. They improve damaged and worn-down teeth. If you have teeth that are uneven or an odd shape, they can treat those, too. Many people grind their teeth and they can wear down quickly when you have this habit. Veneers can give you back your full smile again.
Veneers improve your tooth structure and alignment, which means they can correct minor bite issues. Having an uneven bite can lead to many dental issues in the future. With porcelain veneers, you get increased dental function and are less likely to have problems in the future.
How Many Porcelain Veneers Should I Get?
The number of dental veneers you choose to get depends on your individual needs and goals. You can use them to fix one or two teeth, or you can get them put on every tooth seen when you smile for a complete smile makeover.
Your dentist will examine your teeth and discuss your goal to help determine the right number of porcelain veneers. In some cases, a combination of porcelain veneers and other cosmetic dental procedures may be recommended to achieve the desired results.
Caring for Porcelain Veneers
Veneers only have a long lifetime if you’re taking care of them properly. Having good oral hygiene is the most crucial aspect. Brush and floss at least twice a day and visit our office bi-annually for regular checkups. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and a non-abrasive toothpaste so that you don’t scratch or damage the restoration. When you brush and floss, take extra care to clean where the veneer meets the gumline.
Porcelain veneers are extremely durable, but that doesn’t mean they’re indestructible. Be cautious of how much pressure you’re putting on the veneers when you bite something. Try to break habits like chewing ice or biting your nails because biting down on these harder objects can chip or crack your veneers. If you play contact sports, talk to us about getting a custom mouthguard so your veneers are protected when you’re playing.
You should also talk to us about a nightguard if you grind your teeth at night. The pressure this can put on the veneers can be incredibly harmful to them. Veneers withstand normal wear and tear, but they aren’t meant to take on this much pressure. A nightguard prevents damage to the veneers when you’re grinding your teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do teeth go yellow under veneers?
Yes, teeth can still discolor under veneers if you don’t keep up with good oral care. The veneers stay the same color, but the natural teeth behind them might darken over time. Regular brushing and flossing help prevent this, keeping your teeth and veneers looking their best.
Do cavities develop under porcelain veneers?
Yes, cavities can form on the teeth beneath porcelain veneers. The veneers cover the front, but bacteria can still reach other parts of the tooth. To prevent decay under your veneers, maintain good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly.
Can you use porcelain veneers to fix missing teeth?
No, porcelain veneers can’t replace missing teeth. They need existing teeth to bond to, so they aren’t suitable for filling gaps from missing teeth. If you’re missing a tooth, dental implants or bridges are better options.
Can I get cavities on my veneers?
The veneers themselves can’t get cavities because they’re made of porcelain. However, the natural tooth behind the veneer can still develop decay. You should continue to brush and floss to protect your teeth under the veneers.
Do porcelain veneers stain?
Porcelain veneers resist stains from coffee, tea, and other foods. They maintain their color better than natural teeth do. Still, it’s a good idea to avoid excessive consumption of staining substances to keep your smile bright.
How long do porcelain veneers stay white?
Porcelain veneers can stay white for many years, often 10 to 15 years. Their color is stable and doesn’t change much over time. With good care and regular dental visits, you can maintain their appearance for a long time.
Get Porcelain Veneers in Denton, TX
Dr. William Ferguson and Dr. William Jennings are cosmetic dentists that offer porcelain veneers in Denton, TX. If you are considering this cosmetic dentistry treatment, schedule a consultation to determine if this is the right solution.