At Fuller Dental, we are committed to helping each patient improve the health of their smile. However, we can also help them to achieve their goals with cosmetic dentistry in Burlington, NC. Porcelain veneers are a type of dental veneer. It can be a great option for patients looking to improve the quality and look of their smile. They offer brilliant, lasting results.
Fuller Dental has a team of specially trained dentists dedicated to creating long-lasting, natural-looking smiles using the highest quality materials and the latest techniques.
What are Porcelain Veneers Used For?
One of the most common reasons people choose porcelain veneers is to address tooth discoloration. Many factors can cause teeth to discolor over time, including smoking, consuming certain foods and drinks, and natural aging.
While teeth whitening treatments can help lighten surface stains, they may not fully address more severe discoloration or stains that are resistant to treatment. Porcelain veneers offer a long-lasting and effective solution for improving teeth’s color. They are resistant to staining and can be customized to match the shade of surrounding teeth for a seamless and natural-looking smile.
Porcelain veneers can also be used to repair chipped or cracked teeth. Accidents, injuries, or even biting down on hard objects can cause teeth to become damaged, which can detract from the overall appearance of a person’s smile. Veneers can help restore the appearance and function of these teeth by covering up the damage and providing an aesthetically pleasing solution that blends in with the rest of the teeth. In addition, veneers can also be used to close gaps between teeth and correct minor misalignments, providing a more uniform and symmetrical smile.
Another common use for porcelain veneers is to address worn-down teeth. Over time, the enamel on teeth can become worn down due to age, teeth grinding, or excessive brushing. This can lead to sensitivity, discoloration, and an uneven appearance. Porcelain veneers can help restore these teeth’ shape and size, providing a more uniform and attractive smile. Veneers can also be used to lengthen or reshape teeth that are too short or misshapen, helping to create a more harmonious and balanced smile.
What To Expect During The Porcelain Veneers Procedure
The porcelain veneer process requires two visits to our Burlington dental office. During your first visit, one of our Burlington dentists will examine your teeth. It is important to determine if you are a good candidate for porcelain veneers and to ensure this is the best option for your smile.
The dentist will prepare your teeth by removing minimal tooth enamel. This will help your veneers bond with your teeth. We will then take impressions of your teeth and send them to a dental laboratory. We will give you a temporary covering while your porcelain veneers are created. Porcelain veneers usually take 2-3 weeks to complete.
Once your porcelain veneers are ready, we will remove the temporary coverings, and your dentist will try the dental veneers on for fit and color. Then, he will make any minor adjustments at that time. Your dentist will permanently cement your new veneers to the teeth in our Burlington, NC cosmetic dentistry office.
Following a proper oral hygiene routine is important to keep your new veneers bright and shiny. Like normal teeth, you must care for your veneers to give you the best results possible.
If you have any questions about a proper oral hygiene routine or your porcelain veneers, contact our Burlington dental office to consult with one of our highly trained dental professionals.
The Benefits of Porcelain Veneers
One of the primary benefits of porcelain veneers is their ability to correct a wide range of dental imperfections. Whether a patient is dealing with discolored, stained, chipped, cracked, or unevenly spaced teeth, veneers can effectively cover up these flaws and create a more uniform and attractive smile. This versatile treatment can be customized to match the shape, size, and color of the patient’s natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and natural-looking result.
In addition to enhancing the appearance of the teeth, porcelain veneers are also highly durable and long-lasting. When properly cared for, veneers can last for 10-15 years or even longer, making them a worthwhile investment for patients looking to improve their smile for the long term. Unlike other cosmetic treatments that may require frequent touch-ups or replacements, porcelain veneers offer a reliable and low-maintenance solution for achieving a beautiful smile.
Another benefit of porcelain veneers is their stain-resistant properties. Unlike natural teeth, which can become discolored over time due to aging, smoking, or consuming certain foods and drinks, porcelain veneers are resistant to staining and discoloration. This means patients can enjoy a bright, white smile for many years without worrying about their veneers becoming dull or yellowed.
Furthermore, porcelain veneers are a minimally invasive treatment option that requires only a small amount of tooth enamel to be removed to place the veneers. Most patients can undergo the procedure without anesthesia or significant discomfort, and the recovery time is typically minimal. Compared to more invasive treatments such as dental crowns or orthodontic braces, porcelain veneers offer a faster and less painful solution for improving the appearance of the teeth.
Lastly, porcelain veneers can also help improve the patient’s oral health. By covering up imperfections and creating a more uniform smile, veneers can make it easier for patients to maintain good oral hygiene habits such as brushing and flossing. This can help prevent issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental problems arising from poor oral hygiene.
Porcelain Veneers FAQs
Porcelain veneers can treat almost any of your cosmetic dental concerns. Learn more by reading the answers to these frequently asked questions.
Can my porcelain veneers become stained?
Porcelain is a highly stain-resistant material by dentists and porcelain suppliers alike. It is uncommon for a porcelain veneer to stain from normal wear and tear. Practice proper oral hygiene, including daily brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash to prevent discoloration.
Do porcelain veneers have any impact on my diet?
There is no need to change your diet with porcelain veneers. However, this does not mean your veneer is impervious to damage. If you chew on very hard food or ice, you could develop cracks or chips that are hard to spot or start causing sensitivity. Veneers are durable, but you should treat and respect them like natural teeth.
Can I develop a cavity under my porcelain veneer?
Although it is very rare, it is not impossible to develop a tooth infection under a dental veneer. In most cases, the cavity was already developing before the dentist put the veneer on the tooth. If you have pain in your tooth that has a veneer, visit your dentist for an accurate diagnosis. Your dentist can remove the veneer in certain emergencies.
How long after getting porcelain veneers can I eat?
Wait around two hours after the procedure to eat anything. We numb the area around the teeth receiving veneers, and you shouldn’t consume anything while the anesthetic is still active. Waiting this long also allows you to ensure that the veneers are bonded properly to your teeth.
Does it hurt to get porcelain veneers?
No, the most you should feel is some sensitivity because of the tooth structure we’ve had to remove to make room for the veneers. This sensitivity also goes away with time. You’ll usually notice it for the first few weeks after removing the tooth structure, particularly when consuming very hot or cold foods and beverages.
Am I a good candidate for porcelain veneers?
Most people are strong candidates for veneers. However, you must have good overall oral health. Concerns like gum disease must be controlled before you can get veneers. You also have to be dedicated and committed to a permanent restoration. Once you get veneers, these teeth will always have to have veneers or another restoration on them because we remove tooth structure.
Schedule a Dental Exam Today
If you want to improve your smile, visit our cosmetic dentistry in Burlington, NC. We offer various cosmetic services to help you achieve a beautiful, natural-looking smile. Feel free to schedule an appointment online or call 336-290-7401 today.