Porcelain veneers are very thin shells of tooth-shaped porcelain that are individually crafted to cover the fronts of teeth. They are very durable and stain-resistant, making them a popular solution for those seeking to restore or enhance the beauty of their smile. Porcelain veneers are a popular cosmetic dental treatment in our Groesbeck, TX office. A veneer is a thin dental porcelain shell covering the front and sides of your tooth.
Getting Porcelain Veneers in Groesbeck, TX
Before any cosmetic treatment, we’ll bring you into the office for a consultation. The dentist performs a thorough oral exam and discusses your cosmetic goals, budget, and health. We want to ensure you get the perfect solution for your dental needs. While many patients are eligible for porcelain veneers, there are some restrictions. You must have good oral health so the veneer has a solid foundation. They’re also not recommended for patients who grind their teeth.
We’ll first shave down the teeth to prepare them to get veneers. This allows the veneers to lay flush with the rest of your smile, blending in with the other teeth. We take impressions of these teeth and send them to a dental lab for fabrication. It takes around 2-3 weeks for the permanent restoration. We’ll fit you with a temporary restoration while these are being made.
When your veneers are finished, you return to the office and try them on. If any small adjustments are needed, we’ll make them in our office. Once you’re happy with their fit, we’ll permanently bond them to the front of your teeth.
Porcelain Veneers Benefits
One of the best things about porcelain veneers is that they can treat almost any cosmetic dental concern. Everyone experiences tooth discoloration at some point. Usually, we use professional teeth whitening to correct this problem. However, traditional whitening techniques can’t always treat certain types of discoloration. We can create a porcelain veneer to match any shade of white you desire.
Porcelain veneers hide defects from view because they cover the sides and front of the tooth, whether it’s discoloration or other flaws. Our teeth are more likely to wear down as we age and experience cosmetic chips. Veneers can be a one-step smile makeover to take years off your smile. They can boost your self-esteem and make you more likely to smile publicly.
The lab custom-makes each veneer to fit your smile. They’re ideal for chipped and cracked teeth and misshapen or deformed teeth. The lab can also craft them to fill in gaps between teeth while still looking natural. Not every case of crooked teeth or teeth gaps requires orthodontic intervention. Porcelain veneers can even out your bite and ensure it’s balanced and functional.
Veneers are also very durable. They’re a durable restoration meant to last 10-15 years or more. They also resist stains well and stay whiter for longer than other restorations. You can still drink coffee and red wine without worrying about much staining. Veneers don’t hurt when you get them; you can trust that they’ll last a long time. Since they cover the front and sides of your teeth, they can help protect teeth from acids and bacteria.
Caring for Porcelain Veneers
Though they don’t require many extra steps, we’ll provide instructions on properly caring for your veneers when you leave our office. The crucial thing is to brush at least twice daily, floss at least once daily, and visit the dentist bi-annually. Just because you have veneers doesn’t mean they can prevent anything from happening to your natural teeth. You can still experience tooth decay and other problems without brushing and flossing regularly.
Ensure you’re using dental problems that aren’t abrasive. Your toothpaste shouldn’t contain things like activated charcoal; you should only use toothbrushes with soft bristles. While veneers are very durable, it doesn’t mean that they’re indestructible. If you notice a change in the fit of your veneers, call our office. We’ll look for discoloration or other imperfections during your regular dentist office visits.
Veneers aren’t recommended for patients who grind their teeth. The pressure of grinding can loosen the veneers and cause them to fall off. If you grind your teeth, you must wear a nightguard and mouthguard when playing sports. Don’t use your teeth as tools to open packages, bite your nails, or chew ice. All of these things can be risky to your veneers.
Porcelain Veneers FAQs
Porcelain veneers can be a one-step smile makeover. Learn more by reading the answers to these commonly asked questions.
How long do porcelain veneers last?
Porcelain veneers can last 10-15 years or more with proper care. Factors like your oral hygiene routine, dietary habits, and avoidance of harmful behaviors such as teeth grinding can extend their lifespan. Regular dental check-ups are also crucial to maintaining veneers.
Are porcelain veneers permanent?
Yes, porcelain veneers are considered a permanent solution. During the preparation process, a small amount of enamel is removed from the surface of your teeth, making it impossible to return to the natural state without veneers. While the veneers themselves may need replacement over time due to wear, the initial procedure permanently alters the structure of your teeth.
Do porcelain veneers look natural?
Porcelain veneers are designed to look incredibly natural, thanks to the translucent quality of porcelain, which mimics the reflective properties of tooth enamel. They are custom-made to match your natural teeth’s size, shape, and color, ensuring they blend seamlessly with the rest of your smile. Advanced dental technology allows dentists to create veneers that look natural and are tailored to enhance your facial features and aesthetic preferences.
Are porcelain veneers painful to get?
Most patients experience little to no pain during the veneer procedure. Local anesthesia is typically used during preparation to numb the area and ensure comfort while the enamel is removed. After the procedure, some patients may experience mild sensitivity in the treated teeth, but this usually subsides within a few days.
Can porcelain veneers fall off?
Porcelain veneers are securely bonded to teeth using advanced dental adhesives, making them unlikely to fall off under normal circumstances. However, trauma, poor dental hygiene, or biting on hard objects can weaken the bond. If a veneer does become loose, it’s important to visit your dentist promptly for repair or replacement.
Can porcelain veneers stain?
Unlike natural teeth, porcelain veneers are highly resistant to staining. This means they maintain their bright, white appearance longer, even if you consume staining foods and beverages like coffee, tea, or wine. However, the natural teeth surrounding the veneers can stain, which may create a contrast over time. Practicing good oral hygiene and limiting stain-causing foods can help keep your smile uniform.
Schedule an Appointment
Are you looking for cosmetic dental care in Groesbeck, TX? Call (254) 556-3973 for veneers today. You may also request a dental consultation with us on our website. If you have any questions about dental veneers or similar cosmetic treatments, please let us know, and we will be happy to assist you!