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How Porcelain Veneers Can Improve Your Smile

Scott Porcelain veneers

Porcelain veneers offer a dramatic smile makeover in a short amount of time, making them a popular option with many of our patients. If you have good dental and oral health, but your teeth have cosmetic imperfections that bother you, veneers are one of the best solutions available for creating a beautiful smile you feel confident about showing to the world. 

Here are the facts about porcelain veneers.


What Are Porcelain Veneers?


Porcelain veneers are thin porcelain shells that cover your teeth to improve their appearance. They’re fabricated by dental technicians in a laboratory to match the color and size of adjacent teeth so they blend in perfectly and then they’re bonded to your teeth. Porcelain veneers can be used to correct:

  • Chipped teeth
  • Teeth that are yellow, gray, “dead,” or otherwise discolored and stained
  • Gaps between two teeth
  • Teeth that have been worn down by jaw clenching or teeth grinding
  • Teeth that are uneven or shaped irregularly
  • Minor malocclusion and tooth misalignment

What Happens During a Porcelain Veneer Procedure?


Prior to getting veneers, we’ll want to meet with you in our office to discuss your concerns with your smile, your dental history, and your treatment goals. There are many cosmetic dentistry options and we want to ensure that veneers are the best solution for you. Assuming we decide to proceed with veneers, we will use digital imaging and impressions to create a 3D model of your teeth. This lets us project how your smile will look and how your veneers will interact with your other teeth.

When you’re ready to have your veneers placed, the first step is cleaning your teeth thoroughly to prevent decay from forming behind the veneers. We etch the tooth to allow the veneers to attach securely, then use dental cement or a bonding agent to affix the veneers to your teeth. After curing with a special ultraviolet light, the process is complete and you can leave our office to enjoy your beautiful new smile.


What is the Cost of Porcelain Veneers?


Every patient is different. During your initial consultation, we will provide you with an estimate of the costs involved. Veneers are not covered by dental insurance.


How Long Do Porcelain Veneers Last?


Porcelain is a long-lasting, high-quality option for dental veneers. With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits for cleaning and maintenance, you can expect them to have a 15 to 20 year lifespan. Brush for two minutes twice a day and floss at least once a day to keep them in good shape, and see your dentist every six months.


Are There Alternatives to Veneers?


There are many alternatives to veneers, depending on the cosmetic issues you’re looking to correct. Some options include teeth whitening, Invisalign, dental bonding, teeth shaping, crowns, and gum recontouring. We will go over all of your options during your consultation.


Learn More About Porcelain Veneers


If you’d like to discuss whether porcelain veneers are an option for you, contact us at 818-348-6068 to schedule an appointment.