If you dislike how your smile looks, you always have the option to change it. Our cosmetic dentistry office in Fallston, MD can cover up certain cosmetic issues with dental veneers. When applied to the front of your teeth, they will transform and improve the appearance of your smile.
We may use porcelain veneers or composite bonding for dental veneer procedures. Porcelain veneers are permanent restorations that restore function and aesthetics to patients’ smiles. They are made of a very thin layer of extremely durable porcelain. This helps it look and feel like natural teeth, as the porcelain can be matched to your natural tooth’s exact color, size, and shape.
We use porcelain Veneers to restore:
- Aging teeth that have worn down
- Broken or chipped teeth
- Stained, discolored or yellowed teeth
- Stained, unsightly, or washed-out fillings
- Misshapen or crooked teeth
- To close spaces
Types of Dental Veneers
There are several types of dental veneers available. Composite resin veneers are made of tooth-colored, biocompatible material. Your dentist will apply it directly to the tooth and sculpt it into the proper shape. This type of dental veneer requires little to no tooth preparation and is not permanent.
Porcelain veneers are thin, translucent shells of tooth-like material. They are highly stain resistant and have similar light-reflecting properties compared to natural teeth. These are color matched to patients’ natural tooth enamel and are virtually indistinguishable from surrounding teeth.
The Porcelain Veneer Process
The placement of dental veneers will require about two to three visits to our Fallston dentist office. The process will begin with a Smile Design. We use digital technology to plan your new smile to ensure results that will complement your overall appearance.
Using our digital technology, we can show you what your smile will look like after treatment is complete. Our dentist will discuss the process for veneers with you in detail. This is a great time to get answers to any questions you may have.
Before we take dental impressions, we will gently remove a minimal amount of tooth structure. This will create room for the veneers and provide a better surface for the veneers to attach to. The dentist will place temporary veneers while you wait for the dental lab to create your porcelain veneers.
It typically takes about two to three weeks for the dental lab to create your veneers and send them back to us. When they are ready, we will secure the veneers to each tooth with a strong adhesive and check for color and fit. Then we will polish them for a natural luster and smooth texture.
Porcelain veneers are a permanent dental restoration. They will require some maintenance to keep them looking their best, but they should last a lifetime. Veneers are also resistant to staining, so they maintain their bright shade easier and longer than your natural enamel does.
The Cost of Porcelain Veneers
The cost of porcelain veneers varies depending on the material you choose to use. Also, the number of porcelain veneers you need and the condition of your oral health will affect the total cost. Before we begin treatment, we will complete a full review of the procedure, including the porcelain veneer cost.
We accept most major dental insurance and also offer convenient payment options, including interest-free financing through Care Credit for qualified patients.
In general, porcelain veneers are the most costly type of dental veneer. However, it is important to consider their durability. They can last a lifetime if taken care of properly. On the other hand, you will need to replace no-prep veneers and tooth bonding after several years.
Porcelain Veneers FAQs
Do you have further questions about veneers? Continue reading to learn more about the veneer process and how it could benefit your smile.
Are porcelain veneers better than tooth bonding?
When comparing porcelain veneers to tooth bonding, dental veneers are a much better option. Both will accomplish the same thing. However, veneers are more durable, stain resistant, and permanent.
How long do porcelain veneers last?
Porcelain veneers can last for about 15 years. With proper care and regular dental visits, veneers can last much longer without the need for touch-ups and replacement.
Do porcelain veneers need special maintenance?
Dental veneers do not need special maintenance to keep them in great condition. We recommend continuing good oral hygiene habits such as brushing twice daily, using mouthwash, and flossing regularly.
Do veneers ruin teeth in the long run?
Veneers cannot ruin or damage teeth. They protect teeth from stains and act as a protective shell. Veneers can also take damage so that your teeth do not.
Is the porcelain veneer procedure painful?
We take steps to ensure that each patient undergoing treatment with porcelain veneers is comfortable and relaxed. We offer sedation dentistry to help make you comfortable during the procedure.
It is common to experience some mild sensitivity after the treatment. However, these symptoms generally subside within one to three days.
Are porcelain veneers reversible?
Dentists consider porcelain veneers not to be reversible. To prepare for teeth veneers, your dentist will remove a thin enamel layer from the natural teeth. Once they remove the enamel, it cannot be restored. If your porcelain veneers must be removed, you must replace them or find an alternative to maintain your teeth.
While porcelain veneers offer a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution for various dental concerns, you should carefully consider the irreversible aspect before proceeding with the treatment. During your consultation, we will help you decide if porcelain veneers are the best option for your dental needs.
Do porcelain veneers stain?
Unlike natural tooth enamel, porcelain veneers are highly resistant to staining because the surface is non-porous. This makes them a great choice for maintaining a bright smile. However, while the veneers themselves resist stains, the natural teeth and bonding material around them can discolor. You must continue with good oral hygiene and avoid foods and drinks that stain teeth easily to keep your dental veneers looking their best. Visiting your dentist on a regular basis is also vital to maintaining your teeth veneers.
How much tooth enamel is removed to fit porcelain veneers?
Fitting porcelain veneers to your tooth surface requires removing a minimal amount of tooth enamel. Removing enamel is necessary to ensure a proper fit and natural appearance. Typically, a dentist needs to remove about 0.5 to 1 millimeter of enamel from the tooth surface. This slight reduction allows the dentist to bond the veneer to the tooth securely. Providing enough room for the veneers will offer aesthetic improvements and functional benefits.
Are porcelain veneers good for stained teeth?
Yes, porcelain veneers are an excellent treatment option for stained teeth. They provide a durable and natural-looking cover to hide any tooth discoloration. Dental veneers resist future staining better than natural enamel. However, this treatment to whiten teeth is irreversible and requires some enamel removal. Book a consultation with your dentist to determine if porcelain veneers is the best option to whiten your teeth.
Can I straighten my teeth with porcelain veneers?
Porcelain veneers can give the appearance of straighter teeth but do not actually straighten them. They can cover minor misalignments and gaps, creating a more uniform look. For significant orthodontic issues, we suggest treatments like braces or clear aligners. Dental veneers are best for cosmetic enhancements, while orthodontics addresses the underlying alignment.
Are porcelain veneers safe?
Yes, porcelain veneers are a safe cosmetic dentistry treatment. The dental lab creates them from biocompatible materials to reduce the risk of adverse reactions. The procedure involves minimal enamel removal, preserving most of the natural tooth structure. However, it is irreversible, so it is crucial to determine if you are a suitable candidate. With proper care, dental veneers can last many years, providing a safe and effective solution for improving the appearance of teeth.
Schedule A Dental Exam Today
Harford County Dentistry is located at 1810 Bel Air Road in Fallston, Maryland. We serve patients in Fallston, Bel Air, and other surrounding areas. We gladly welcome new patients. Call 410-994-2627 for an appointment or request an appointment online.