Dental veneers are a popular choice for a smile makeover. One of our dentists will use a layer of porcelain to cover the visible part of one or more of your teeth to improve their shape and look. Teeth veneers are also very easy to replace and not easily stained. If you want a brighter, whiter smile, you are in luck! We offer porcelain veneers in our Ardmore and Madill, OK dental offices to improve the aesthetics of the smile. Porcelain veneers are a cosmetic dentistry treatment we provide to our patients in Southern Oklahoma.
Porcelain Veneers in Southern Oklahoma
Dental veneers are individually custom-made shells of dental-grade porcelain that your dentist will bond to the front surface of teeth. The purpose of a dental veneer is to create a new outer layer of the tooth to restore the look of the tooth. This will conceal any type of imperfection the tooth has. We can address one or all of the teeth in your smile line.
A porcelain veneer is very thin and custom-designed for the tooth your dentist will apply it. They are made of porcelain because this material mimics the translucency and texture of natural teeth. The procedure requires a minimal amount of enamel removal, making it a conservative yet transformative cosmetic dentistry option.
What Type of Problems Do Porcelain Veneers Correct?
Porcelain veneers are a versatile cosmetic dentistry treatment. Your Storts Family Dentistry dentist can address various aesthetic issues and enhance the overall appearance of your teeth. One of our dentists will assess your teeth to determine if they are the appropriate treatment for you and your cosmetic goals. Common problems porcelain veneers can correct include:
- Stained or Discolored Teeth: We often use porcelain veneers to cover intrinsic stains that may not respond well to teeth whitening.
- Chipped or Cracked Teeth: Dental veneers can conceal chips and cracks, restoring the tooth’s appearance.
- Misaligned Teeth: Mild misalignments, such as gaps or slight rotations, can be visually corrected with teeth veneers.
- Uneven or Irregularly Shaped Teeth: Porcelain veneers can create a more uniform and symmetrical appearance for teeth with irregular shapes.
- Worn Down Teeth: Teeth that are worn down over time can be lengthened and restored with dental veneers.
- Minor Orthodontic Issues: Teeth veneers may offer a cosmetic alternative to traditional orthodontic treatment for minor alignment concerns.
- Gaps Between Teeth: Porcelain veneers can effectively close small gaps or spaces between teeth.
- Teeth with Pitting or Grooves: Dental veneers can provide a smoother surface for teeth with natural pits or grooves.
The Porcelain Veneer Process
The porcelain veneer process will involve several steps and spans several appointments. You will need to visit your Storts Family Dentistry office for a consultation and then two more times for the porcelain veneer procedure. The porcelain veneer process typically involves the following steps:
Consultation
To begin the process, you will need to schedule a consultation with your Storts Family Dentistry cosmetic dentist. At this visit, you will discuss your goals and they will assess your oral health. If porcelain veneers are the right option for you, we will book your treatment and discuss your payment options.
Your First Treatment Visit
During your first treatment visit, we will prepare your teeth. Your dentist will remove a small amount of enamel from the front surface of the teeth receiving the dental veneers. This is to create space for the restorations.
Once we are done preparing your teeth, we will take impressions. These molds will serve as the basis for crafting your permanent, custom-made porcelain veneers. We will send these molds of your prepared teeth to a dental laboratory. Your dentist will choose a color and size to match your natural, surrounding teeth.
We will also take impressions to craft temporary veneers. Your dentist will place these on your teeth while the permanent ones are being made in a dental lab. This is to protect your teeth for the few weeks it takes a skilled technician to create your permanent, custom porcelain veneers.
Your Second Treatment Visit
You will return to our office for the second visit once we receive your permanent veneers from the dental lab. During this visit, we will remove the temporary veneers. Then your dentist will try on your permanent one to ensure a proper fit.
Your dentist will use a strong dental adhesive to bond the porcelain veneers to your teeth. They will make any necessary adjustments to them to ensure a proper bite.
The last step is to polish your new teeth for a smooth and natural appearance. Your dentist will assess the final results to make sure they meet your goals and function well. Then you can leave with a new and improved smile.
What are the Benefits of Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers offer many benefits making them a popular cosmetic dentistry solution. They are versatile and can effectively address many cosmetic issues to enhance the appearance of your smile. Additionally, the materials we use in dental veneers will protect your natural teeth and are resistant to decay.
Porcelain is the perfect material to use to create teeth veneers. It mimics the translucency and texture of natural teeth, providing a realistic and natural-looking enhancement. Also, porcelain is very durable and can last for many years if you care for it properly. Finally, porcelain is naturally resistant to stains. This will help maintain the brightness of your new smile for many years.
This cosmetic dentistry treatment is highly customizable. We can create a smile to match your natural teeth or create a new smile that is more harmonious. Your treatment can be completed in a short time, providing you with a new smile in a short amount of time.
Porcelain Veneers FAQs
Porcelain veneers are an excellent choice for anyone seeking a smile makeover. These are frequently asked questions and answers about the treatment and what to expect. We hope that this section can help you as you inquire about teeth veneers. If you have additional questions, please call our Ardmore or Madill office for help.
How long do porcelain veneers last?
The average porcelain veneer lasts between 10 to 15 years. However, they can last longer if you can maintain proper oral health and meticulous care. The lifespan of a dental veneer is based on factors like oral hygiene practices and avoiding wear and tear. Habits such as teeth grinding, chewing hard foods that could damage the restorations, and using your teeth as tools can shorten the life of your teeth veneers. Make sure to attend your regular dental checkups to help maintain their condition.
Are porcelain veneers permanent?
Yes, dental veneers are permanent dental restorations. This is because their application involves removing a small amount of the enamel from the front of your teeth. This is a necessary step to create room for the restorations. However, this is also irreversible. Once you choose to get teeth veneers, you must maintain them for a lifetime. If they crack, break, or discolor, you will need to replace them.
Will dental veneers ruin my teeth?
No, dental veneers do not ruin your teeth. However, they do permanently alter them. This type of dental restoration is designed to enhance the appearance of your smile. That process involves removing a small layer of enamel and that is not reversible. As long as the veneers remain on your teeth, you maintain good oral health, and visit your dentist regularly your teeth will remain healthy.
Can you whiten porcelain veneers?
No, it is not possible to whiten this type of dental restoration. Porcelain is a non-porous material that resists staining but also does not respond to bleaching agents. You must choose a shade that matches your surrounding teeth or the shade that you are happy with. This is likely the color of your teeth for the next 10 to 15 years unless you decide to replace them.
Are dental veneers covered by insurance?
It is unlikely that your dental insurance will cover dental veneers. Most dental insurance carriers consider them a cosmetic dentistry treatment and will not cover any portion of the cost.
Do porcelain veneers feel like real teeth?
Yes, porcelain veneers will feel and look like natural teeth. After your dentist places them on your teeth, they may feel unnatural at first because it is something new in your mouth. However, after a short adjustment period, most people don’t even notice a difference compared to their natural teeth.
Can porcelain veneers stain?
Teeth veneers are made from non-porous materials making them less likely to discolor or stain over time compared to natural teeth. Even though they are highly stain-resistant, it is still possible with an excess amount of staining foods and drinks like coffee, red wine, and tea. Maintain good oral hygiene, attend your regular dental checkups, and limit the stain-causing drinks and foods to keep them looking their best.
Who is a good candidate for porcelain veneers?
Patients who make good dental veneer candidates are those who want to improve their smile and are in good oral health. An ideal candidate does not have tooth decay, gum disease, or other dental issues. Habits like teeth grinding should be addressed as they can easily damage the veneers.
How do I care for my porcelain veneers?
Dental veneer care is simple and generally involves taking good care of your teeth. You should brush and floss your teeth daily, avoid hard foods and objects, attend regular dental check-ups, and avoid using your teeth as tools.
Schedule a Consultation for Porcelain Veneers Southern Oklahoma
Contact Storts Family Dentistry at (580) 260-3410 or request an appointment with us online to learn more about porcelain veneers. Our cosmetic services are available to Southern Oklahoma and all of the surrounding neighborhoods and cities, such as Ardmore, Marietta, Madill, Thackerville, Springer, Wilson, Mannsville, and Kingston. Our dentists love serving Southern Oklahoma and its incredible people. We cannot wait to help you feel confident in your smile.