Cosmetic dentistry has a solution for all dental issues that discourage you from smiling without reservation. Having stained, misaligned, chipped, broken, or gapped teeth makes is a common source of insecurity for many people. Porcelain veneers can help you achieve even teeth and a dazzling smile.
Porcelain veneers, also known as dental veneers, are wafer-thin shells of tooth-colored material that are custom-made to cover the front surface of the teeth and conceal flaws. Dental veneers are typically made from two types of materials: resin and porcelain. However, porcelain veneers outperform resin veneers in terms of stain resistance and strength.
The veneering process can be done on one or more teeth at the same time.
Porcelain Veneers Procedure
With the advancement of modern cosmetic dentistry, porcelain veneers have become a very simple process. It usually requires three visits to your dentist, with one follow-up visit.
The First Visit
The dentist will first examine your teeth and determine if porcelain veneers are the best option for you. You can discuss the color of the veneers that will look natural with your teeth. The dentist will then take X-rays of your mouth and teeth, as well as possibly make an impression of them, to prepare for your next visit.
The Second Visit
The second appointment is to prepare your teeth for dental veneers. To make room for veneers, the dentist will remove a very small amount of tooth enamel (less than one millimeter). The model or impression of your tooth will then be sent to the dental laboratory, where a dental ceramicist will craft custom-made veneers for you. It will take two to four weeks to make porcelain veneers, and you will have to wear temporary veneers in the meantime.
The Third Visit
Your dentist will bond porcelain veneers to your teeth during the third visit. Before permanently attaching veneers, your dentist will check to ensure that the color, size, and shape match the rest of your teeth. Then your teeth will be cleaned and polished thoroughly. Once the dentist is satisfied with the condition of your teeth and veneers, he or she will apply a special etching solution to your teeth and bonding cement to the veneers.
The veneers will then be placed one by one on each tooth to ensure a strong and permanent attachment. After all of the veneers are in place, the dentist will use a special light beam to activate chemicals in the cement, causing it to harden quickly. The final step is to clean the cement and solution residues, check the bite, and make any necessary adjustments.
A one-week follow-up visit is required to ensure that everything is in order and that your teeth are up to your satisfaction.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Veneers?
Thanks to the versatility of veneers, those who have more than one dental issue are good candidates for veneers. If you have misaligned, chipped, broken, or gapped teeth, veneers are a great way to improve the aesthetic appearance of your smile.
Veneers are ideal for closing gaps between teeth and aligning them with neighboring teeth. Dental veneers are not recommended if you have a major dental problem, such as severely worn-down or missing teeth.
Finally, having good and healthy oral hygiene is a big help when it comes to getting dental veneers. Veneers can be permanently damaged by decayed teeth or gum disease, so it is best to treat them before getting dental veneers.
Anderson Lake Dental Clinic in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, employs skilled dentists with extensive experience with dental or porcelain veneers. Contact Anderson Lake Dental Clinic to schedule a consultation about dental veneers and have them installed by one of our experienced and qualified dentists.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Veneers
How long do porcelain veneers last?
Porcelain veneers have an average lifespan of 10 years, but with proper maintenance and care, they can last for more than 20 years.
How much does veneers cost?
It varies by state and country. However, porcelain veneers typically range in price from $925 to $2,500 per tooth. Keep in mind that if you do not have the necessary dental reasons for getting veneers, your insurance will most likely not cover the cost.
Are Porcelain Veneers Permanent?
Porcelain veneers are not permanent because they must be replaced every couple of decades, but if you take good care of them and your oral health, they can last much longer.
Do Porcelain Veneers Ruin your Teeth?
No, it does not. The primary benefit of porcelain veneers is that they cover the natural teeth and improve the appearance of people's smiles. They do not ruin or harm your teeth.
