Porcelain veneers correct a wide variety of cosmetic issues such as stains, chips, misalignment, and gaps in your teeth. The customized treatment allows you to create your dream smile and address multiple concerns at once for a lasting, natural-looking smile.
Porcelain veneers are no small investment, and once they’ve been placed cannot be reversed, so it’s important to do your research before you take the plunge. We’ve created this list of frequently asked questions to help you better understand veneers and what to expect from the procedure.
Porcelain Veneers FAQ
How many veneers should I get?
The number of porcelain veneers you choose to get will depend on your smile goals. A standard set of veneers is eight on top and eight on bottom, but placing ten veneers on both the top and bottom of your mouth provides complete control of your smile.
Some dentists will perform the procedure on the four top and bottom teeth alone, this doesn’t provide the same natural appearance as a more extensive set. When considering how many veneers to get, think of how many of your teeth show when you smile. The bigger your grin, the more veneers you will want placed.
How long do porcelain veneers last?
Porcelain veneers can last anywhere from seven to 20 years before they need replacing, depending on how you care for them.
Over time, your gum line may recede and change the shape of your face, but this can take ten years or more to occur. In rare instances, a veneer may fall off, or chip, which will require a repair or replacement before they reach their expected lifespan.
Why choose veneers over whitening?
While professional teeth whitening solves many discoloration concerns, certain stains are too stubborn for the treatment, making porcelain veneers a great option.
Whitening can only do so much in terms of altering the shade of your teeth. With veneers, you can fix discoloration so your teeth are all the same color throughout. As an added plus, the porcelain material is stain-resistant, so you won’t have to worry about staining your smile every time you indulge in a cup of coffee.
What are no-prep veneers?
No-prep veneers consist of incredibly thin pieces of porcelain that cover your natural tooth so that you don’t have to file down any enamel for placement. This easy option is ideal for patients with healthy teeth, or those who are very young.
The Process
When it comes to veneers, we often have patients ask “What is the process like?”
Treatment for receiving porcelain veneers typically takes three appointments to complete. Here’s what you can expect from each visit:
1. Impressions
During your initial appointment, you will receive a diagnostic wax-up to take impressions of your teeth. Your impressions are made using either dental putty or a digital scan to ensure proper fit for the veneers. Our practice sends these impressions to our master ceramist to create your custom porcelain veneers.
2. Preparation
To prepare for bonding your teeth will be etched, and a small amount of enamel shaved off the front of your tooth. Conservative dentistry is our goal, so we will only remove the amount of enamel that matches the thickness of the porcelain veneer. Keep in mind, however, when teeth are decayed, more filing may be required. Then you will receive temporary veneers to wear while waiting for the permanent solution.
3. Placement
Once your veneer customization is complete, permanent placement will begin. We use dental cement to secure the porcelain veneers, followed by a special light that activates and sets the cement.
Curious about how dental veneers can transform your smile? Schedule a free cosmetic consultation with us today! We’ll assess your smile and answer any questions you may have before you commit.
