Porcelain veneers can be used for subtle changes or a complete smile makeover. A porcelain veneer is a thin, almost clear shell of tooth-like material that a dentist will bond to the front of a tooth. This is a very popular cosmetic dentistry procedure because of the dramatic changes it can make to your smile. Dr. Alla Brown and Dr. Amanda Newberry offer porcelain veneers to patients who want to improve the beauty, health, or function of their teeth.
Porcelain Veneers Before & After
We restored this patient’s smile using a combination of porcelain veneers and porcelain crowns.
Before Porcelain Veneers Treatment
After Porcelain Veneers Treatment
Who Can Benefit From Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are a great cosmetic treatment for anyone who wants to fix their smile. They are a great dental restoration to repair cosmetic and functional concerns. If you have stained or yellow teeth, Dr. Brown and Dr. Newberry can use veneers to whiten your teeth when teeth whitening treatment cannot do the job. Additionally, the results will last longer than tooth whitening.
Dentists can also use porcelain veneers to repair chipped, cracked, or broken teeth. Veneers can restore the appearance of teeth with minor damage while also improving your oral health. The dental veneers will give the teeth strength, improve functionality, and protect the teeth to prevent further damage.
Dr. Brown and Dr. Newberry can also treat minor orthodontic issues with teeth veneers. Dental veneers can help create a straight smile if you have crooked or uneven teeth. They can also close gaps between teeth to create a more harmonious smile.
The Porcelain Veneers Process
The material that forms porcelain veneers closely resembles tooth enamel in part because it is almost clear, much like actual tooth enamel. This effect is what makes for a bright, beautiful, natural looking smile. With the use of porcelain veneers, anyone can have the perfect smile they have always wanted.
It generally takes about three to five visits to complete the process of designing, creating, and applying porcelain veneers.
Consultation & Evaluation – The application of porcelain veneers requires the services of an expert cosmetic dentist, who will complete a very thorough evaluation before beginning the process. Our dentist will inspect your teeth, gums, and mouth using high-tech dental imaging to determine if porcelain veneers are right for you. Next, she will create a treatment plan that outlines your specific process.
Preparation – In order to apply the porcelain veneers, the dentist must remove a small amount of tooth enamel. Then, they will place temporary veneers on the teeth to protect them while the permanent veneers are skillfully crafted in a dental lab.
In most cases, we will place temporary dental veneers over the teeth to protect them until the permanent dental veneers are ready. However, this is not always necessary.
Final Placement – Once the permanent veneers are complete, your dentist will secure them to your teeth to create an unforgettable smile that will last a lifetime. Unlike tooth whitening or other cosmetic procedures, which you must repeat often, porcelain veneers are a long-lasting solution that will provide you with a lifetime of beautiful smiles.
Aftercare – Porcelain veneers require some special care. Your Lanier Smiles dentist will review instructions with you and show you how to floss and brush the dental veneers.
Porcelain Veneers FAQs
These frequently asked questions will help you learn more about the procedure, care, and maintenance pertaining to dental veneers. We provide this resource to our patients to help those decisions about their dental health. If you have additional questions, please feel free to contact our office during regular business hours.
How much do porcelain veneers cost?
The cost of veneers depends on a few things. The health and condition of your teeth, the number of veneers you need, and the type of veneer we use are all factors that will effect the cost. We will evaluate your smile to see if this treatment is best for you and your needs and goals. We will review all costs before you make your final decision.
Are there any alternatives to porcelain veneers?
Some patients who have minor concerns or who are not ready for veneers may be able to have tooth bonding. This treatment is cheaper, however it will not last as long. If you simply want a whiter smile, you can choose professional teeth whitening. Some patients who suffer from tooth damage and cosmetic concerns can choose dental crowns to fix the damage and improve the appearance of their tooth.
What are Lumineers?
Lumineers are a brand of minimal prep dental veneers. This means they require little to no tooth enamel removal before the dentist places the veneers. This type of restoration is not for everyone. Your dentist will evaluate your smile to determine if a no prep veneer is right for you.
Is it painful to get porcelain veneers?
Most patients experience very little pain during the veneer process. Your dentist will need to remove a very small amount of tooth enamel from the surface of the tooth. However, we will numb your mouth for your comfort so you should not feel any pain. After this wears off, you may feel some minor gum tenderness from the procedure and some tooth sensitivity from the enamel removal. This will resolve in a few days.
Will I need to replace my porcelain veneers?
All dental restorations will need to be replaced eventually due to everyday wear and tear. Typically, porcelain veneers can last between 10 to 15 years before you will need to replace them. However, their longevity depends on how well you care for them. Proper care, regular check-ups, good oral hygiene, avoiding bad habits such as chewing on your nails, and wearing mouthguards will extend the life of your dental veneers. If a tooth veneer becomes damaged, you will need to replace it.
Can I whiten my porcelain veneers?
Professional teeth whitening cannot whiten porcelain veneers. If you want a bright, white smile, we suggest whitening your smile before having your dental veneers put on. Then we can fabricate a set of porcelain veneers to match the shade of your teeth. This cosmetic dentistry restoration is stain resistant and will maintain its brightness with regular dental care.
How do I care for my dental veneers?
To maximize the longevity of your dental veneers, practice good oral hygiene by brushing twice and flossing daily. Use a non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Avoid chewing hard objects and foods, and wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth. Regular dental check-ups are essential to keeping your porcelain veneers in good condition.
Dr. Brown and Dr. Newberry can provide you with porcelain veneers in Buford, GA to transform the appearance of your teeth. Contact Lanier Family and Cosmetic Dentistry today at (678) 359-4707 or schedule an appointment online to book a consultation.