What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Imagine a mask, but instead of it being worn over your face, it is tiny and properly fits over each individual tooth. This is essentially what porcelain veneers are designed to do. These ultra-thin layers of porcelain are custom-made to fit snugly over the surface of your teeth, covering a variety of cosmetic flaws, including:
- Chips
- Cracks
- Stains or discoloration
- Gaps between teeth
- Minor misalignments
What is the Process for Getting Veneers?
To have porcelain veneers placed, all it takes is two appointments. Your cosmetic dentist in Allen will begin by examining your smile and determining the type of imperfections you wish to hide. Using a shade guide, Dr. Blacher will carefully determine the shade in which your new veneers should be before removing a small portion of the enamel from the surface of your teeth. This will help the veneer to lay flat against your natural tooth, as well as make it easier for the bonding agent to properly adhere the veneer to your tooth.
Next, she will take impressions of your teeth and send them off to dental lab technicians who will create and customize your veneers. In between your two appointments, you will wear temporary veneers, but once your permanent ones are ready, you will return for your final visit. This is when Dr. Blacher will remove the temporary ones and use a special cement to bond your permanent veneers onto your natural teeth.
Benefits of Veneers
Apart from the fact that you will have a fully transformed smile, there are other added benefits to having porcelain veneers, some of which include:
- Completely natural look and feel.
- Versatile treatment that hides everything from cracks and chips to spaces between teeth and minor misalignments.
- A long-lasting cosmetic solution that can have you seeing outstanding results for 10 years or more with proper care.
- The process is much less invasive than having a dental crown placed.
- An easily maintainable cosmetic treatment, only requiring that you brush, floss, rinse, and continue seeing your dentist every six months for regular cleanings and checkups.
How to Maintain Your Veneers
If you want your veneers to last more than a decade, you’ll need to agree to follow these steps:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth twice a day for two full minutes.
- Make sure to gently floss at least once a day.
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash to rinse away bacteria and food particles leftover from brushing and flossing.
- Maintain regular dental checkups and cleanings.
- Avoid consuming hard, crunchy foods, as they can damage your veneers.
- Limit stain-causing foods or beverages. Although veneers are more stain-resistant than tooth enamel, they can become stained over time.
Veneers FAQs
If you’re unhappy with the appearance of your teeth, you can revitalize your smile with veneers in Allen. The thin shells instantly cover a multitude of imperfections to give you a dazzling smile you’ll be proud to show off. While you’re excited to transform your teeth, we know you have a few concerns before you’re ready to commit to the treatment. We’ll explain everything during your consultation. While you wait for your visit, we have the answers to some of the most common questions patients ask us about veneers.
How many veneers will I need?
There isn’t any way to determine the number of veneers you’ll need without first performing an examination and learning more about your goals. While a veneer can be applied to a single tooth, your cosmetic dentist in Allen will often recommend bonding them to the front 2, 4, or 8 teeth. This helps to create a seamless transition between your veneers and enamel to achieve the most natural-looking results.
Will veneers make my teeth sensitive?
The process of applying veneers to your teeth requires your cosmetic dentist to remove a small amount of enamel. As a result, it is normal to be concerned about the potential for tooth sensitivity, but you don’t have anything to fear. You might experience some sensitivity initially after your procedure, but any discomfort will dissipate within a few days. In some cases, we may even recommend veneers for patients who have a history of sensitive teeth because they provide an added layer of protection between your dentin and the foods and drinks you consume.
How much do veneers cost?
There is not a set fee for veneers because the cost is determined by your individual treatment plan, like the number of teeth you’re improving. Although veneers cost more initially than other procedures, like cosmetic bonding, they can be more cost-effective because they can treat several issues using one treatment. We’ll provide you with a personalized estimate during your consultation and discuss the fees associated with your plan. Our office accepts a variety of payment options to keep your new smile affordable. Besides traditional payment methods, we also accept third-party financing. You are given the funds you need based on your credit’s approval, which you’ll repay using a plan that fits your budget.
Can I use my dental insurance to pay for veneers?
It is rare for a dental insurance company to pay for veneers because they are elective; however, every policy is unique. If applicable, we’ll help you maximize your dental benefits to lower the amount you need to pay out-of-pocket. We will work with you to find the solutions you need for any balance due, so you can enhance your smile without draining your wallet.
How long do veneers last?
Veneers are thinner than ever, but they are durable to withstand the pressure of daily wear and tear. On average, veneers last for about 10 years before needing to be replaced, but it’s not uncommon for them to thrive for decades. We’ll explain how to best care for your new smile to protect your investment.
| Mon | 9:00AM – 6:00PM |
| Tues | 9:00AM – 6:00PM |
| Wed | 7:00AM – 2:00PM |
| Thurs | 8:00AM – 5:00PM |
