Everything You Need to Know About Porcelain Veneers

Chances are you’ve heard about porcelain veneers. Smile makeovers featuring veneers can be found all over social media, including plenty of stunning before-and-after transformations. In fact, they’ve become so popular, you may already have friends or family members who’ve chosen to invest in this versatile form of cosmetic dental care.

Though they may be popular, if you’re new to cosmetic dental care, porcelain veneers can still be a bit of a mystery. You might be asking yourself, “How do veneers even work?” or “Can they really fix my teeth problems?”

Keep reading to get the answers to these questions and more.

What are porcelain veneers, and how do they work?

Porcelain veneers are a cosmetic dental care service that involves the permanent placement of thin shells over the visible surfaces of your teeth. Veneers may cover all the visible teeth in your smile or only treat a few teeth. They are exceptionally durable, beautiful, and completely natural-looking.

Veneers work by changing the aesthetic appearance of teeth by covering damage, filling gaps, and adjusting the overall shape and size. Aside from the enamel removed in the prepping process, your underlying natural teeth will remain the same, including their alignment.

What problems do porcelain veneers solve?

Porcelain veneers primarily solve cosmetic problems, though they do offer some restorative capabilities. Veneers are great for covering teeth that are chipped, cracked, discolored, stained, unevenly worn, and oddly shaped. Your dentist can also close gaps between teeth using veneers.

As an added bonus, veneers can also help with mild or moderately crooked teeth. Again, veneers won’t physically realign your teeth like braces, but they do change how the teeth look. Your teeth will be in the same spot, but visually, they will look perfectly straight.

What can I expect during the treatment process?

Porcelain veneers usually require two to three appointments before they’re finished. Your first appointment will involve prepping your teeth, taking impressions for the permanent veneers, and placing temporary veneers. The second appointment often takes place two to three weeks later, after your dentist receives your permanent veneers from the dental lab. Your temporary veneers will be removed, and your permanent set will be placed.

The third appointment is often a follow-up to ensure the porcelain veneers are still fitting well and you’re happy with their appearance.

How long do porcelain veneers last?

Porcelain veneers are exceptionally long-lasting when taken care of properly! The typical lifespan of a set is 10 to 15 years, though it’s possible for them to last even longer. Once worn, or if accidentally damaged, your dentist can apply a new set.

Veneers don’t require any special care compared to natural teeth. You’ll want to stick to a great at-home dental care regimen, visit your dentist every six months, and limit your consumption of sugar as well as any foods or drinks that may stain.

What are the downsides of porcelain veneers?

Before moving forward with veneers, it’s important to know the possible downsides in order to make an educated decision. The cost and permanence of veneers are two factors that should be discussed.

Porcelain veneers are a fantastic investment for your oral health and your self-confidence, but they are a more expensive cosmetic dental care option. Since they are cosmetic, the majority of dental insurance plans don’t offer coverage.

Veneers are also a very permanent decision, and there’s no going back. The preparation process necessary for veneers requires the removal of some of your natural tooth enamel. This means your teeth will always need veneers on them for protection and to look like teeth.

Schedule a consultation to learn how your unique smile may benefit from a porcelain veneer makeover.

The best way to get customized advice about your smile and porcelain veneers is to schedule a one-on-one consultation. Dallas Cosmetic Dental encourages anyone interested in veneers in North Dallas to call our office to book an appointment and evaluation.

Get in touch with our team here.