Porcelain Veneers

Why Do Patients Get Porcelain Veneers?

Dental veneers are made of thin layers of porcelain. They are small shells that are attached to the front surface of teeth. Veneers porcelain blend in seamlessly with teeth, creating a natural look and feel. They can address a variety of cosmetic issues, including gaps between teeth, discolored teeth, worn down teeth, and chipped or cracked teeth.

Is the Porcelain Veneers Cost High?

The exact cost of veneers made from porcelain will be different for each patient, and the total cost depends on a variety of factors, such as how many teeth are being treated and the overall complexity of your restoration. Unfortunately, most dental insurance providers won’t cover the porcelain veneers cost because veneers are a cosmetic dentistry treatment and are deemed medically unnecessary for most patients. Our office may have options available to help make treatment more affordable. Call us today for more information about payment options or financing options.

How Are Veneers Different From Crowns?

Veneers and crowns are two popular options for perfecting your smile. They are both made from the same materials and can dramatically improve the shape and color of your teeth. Despite these similarities, there are also some key differences between crowns and veneers.

Porcelain crowns are typically much thicker than veneers, and they cover the entire tooth, all the way to the gum line. This is why they’re also called “dental caps.” Veneers consist of a thin shell that only covers the front surface of teeth. Crowns also require more enamel removal to fit over a tooth properly, which is typically two millimeters. Since veneers aren’t as thick, your dentist can preserve more of your natural tooth enamel.

Dental crowns are an ideal solution for teeth that are compromised by advanced decay, damage, or trauma caused by tooth grinding. Since they cover and protect weakened and damaged teeth, crowns can strengthen teeth and prevent additional damage. Veneers are typically used for cosmetic improvements in patients who otherwise have healthy teeth. If you’d like to learn more about crowns or porcelain veneers in New Haven, get in touch with us to schedule a consultation.

How Do Dentists Prepare Teeth for Veneers?

For most patients, the porcelain veneers procedure can be completed in two or three visits to our office. Here are the steps involved in receiving veneers.

Despite being made of a thin material, your dentist will remove a small amount of enamel to prepare your teeth for placement of the veneer. Less than one millimeter of tooth enamel is removed, which will ensure a smooth fit and natural-looking appearance. After your teeth have been prepared, impressions of your teeth are made and sent to a dental laboratory. A dental technician will use the impression to create customized veneers that fit the unique shape of your teeth. Your dentist will use a shade guide to select veneers that closely match the shade of your teeth.

It can take one to two weeks for your permanent veneers to be made. To protect your teeth during this period of time, the dentist will place temporary veneers over your teeth. You’ll return for another appointment where the dentist will place your permanent veneers. During this time, the dentist will remove the temporary veneers and your teeth are cleaned before the permanent veneers are placed. The permanent veneers are bonded to the surface of teeth with a special adhesive. After the veneers are securely attached, your teeth are polished to reveal a bright smile.

How Long Will My Veneers Last?

With proper care, porcelain teeth are very sturdy and durable, lasting up to 20 years. Although veneers don’t require any special care, it’s important to care for them just like your natural teeth, which includes daily brushing and flossing and seeing your dentist every six months for cleanings and exams. Just like your natural teeth, there are some habits that can damage veneers, such as biting down on hard foods or objects and opening bags or packages with your teeth. Wearing a customized sports mouth guard will also keep your veneers protected if you play contact sports. In addition, if you grind or clench your teeth while sleeping, you can ask your dentist about a night guard.