Do you have cosmetic imperfections that stop you from showing off your beautiful smile? Porcelain veneers offer a quick way to improve your smile with lasting, durable results. An experienced cosmetic dentist in Greeley, CO, Dr. Joseph Thompson, can work with you to achieve the smile you desire using porcelain veneers.
Veneers customize the color, shape, and overall appearance of your teeth. Made from ultra-thin, high-quality ceramic porcelain, they treat a wide range of dental concerns.
This patient was looking for a cosmetic smile makeover to cover white spots on teeth, and close the gap between her two front teeth. We were able to address her damaged teeth with dental veneers. They’re typically made of porcelain or composite resin. Dr. Thompson gave her a bright natural-looking smile with porcelain veneers.
The Porcelain Veneers Process
Changing the look of your smile with porcelain veneers begins with a consultation and exam. As part of the treatment planning process, Dr. Thompson will evaluate all aspects of your teeth, gums, and bite. If there are problems with the way your teeth fit together or how your bite functions, we may need to correct those issues first. This helps make sure your final results are stable, comfortable, and last a long time. Fixing these underlying concerns is an important part of your overall treatment plan.
Dr. Thompson will use digital imagery and diagnostics to create your custom treatment plan. The first step in the process is to prepare your teeth by removing a small amount of tooth surface so the veneers can stick and remain in place. Once this is complete, Dr. Thompson will take dental impressions and place temporary veneers on them. Temporaries help you use your teeth while we wait for the dental lab to make your custom veneers.
The dentist usually places the final restorations on the second visit. Dr. Thompson will secure the veneers permanently to the teeth and make any adjustments necessary for a comfortable fit and healthy bite. The porcelain material creates a natural-looking result. It will reflect light like natural enamel and blend seamlessly with your smile. As an added benefit, the material is also stain-resistant. Your new smile will last many years with proper care and maintenance.
Why Choose Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneer treatment is one of the most popular cosmetic dental solutions. This is in part because they can treat so many different issues in your smile zone. Depending on the severity of the issue, porcelain veneers may be able to treat any cosmetic problem you can think of. They’re incredibly durable and can last upwards of 10-15 years if you properly take care of your oral health. It’s a quick and effective treatment option.
We usually use professional teeth whitening to treat discolored teeth. But not all discoloration responds to traditional whitening treatment. The porcelain used for veneers can be color-matched to any shade of white that you desire. If you just have one or two teeth that don’t respond to traditional treatment, we can make it so your veneers match the shade of white of the rest of your smile.
As we age, our teeth show the years. They wear down and encounter little chips and cracks over time. Porcelain veneers cover the front and sides of your tooth, completely obscuring the tooth from view. This is also useful for patients with misshapen or deformed teeth. Veneers can even help if you have weakened enamel. It bonds to the front of the tooth, restoring some strength that may have been lost.
We make each porcelain veneer custom to fit your smile. If you have gaps between your teeth that don’t need orthodontic intervention, crafted veneers can close these gaps while still looking natural. Veneers can go on just a few teeth, or they can go on all of them. The overall goal is to ensure you have a straight and even smile at the end of treatment.
Porcelain Veneers Aftercare
When you get porcelain veneers, it’s important to care for them properly to preserve the beauty and longevity of your smile. Though the porcelain isn’t vulnerable to decay, you must remember that your natural tooth is still under the veneer. You want to start by brushing at least twice daily and flossing at least once daily. Visit the dentist every six months so that we can check on your progress and ensure things are progressing correctly.
When choosing oral healthcare products, only choose toothbrushes with soft bristles. Even medium bristles can be too rough on your veneers and damage them. The same goes for abrasive types of toothpaste. Ones that have ingredients like activated charcoal can damage your veneers as well. Non-abrasive whitening toothpaste, though, can help with staining on your veneers.
While veneers are very durable, they’re not invincible. They can still chip or loosen on your teeth. Avoid biting down directly with your veneers on hard or crunchy foods. You should also avoid habits like chewing ice or biting your nails, as the pressure from these habits can cause chipping on your veneers.
Porcelain Veneers FAQs
Here, we put together the most frequently asked questions about porcelain veneers that our patients ask us. Many patients have questions about this popular cosmetic solution, from the procedure to the benefits and long-term care. We would like to help anyone considering porcelain veneers make a better decision about the treatments they choose for their teeth.
Are you a candidate for porcelain veneers?
Most patients can get porcelain veneers. Before any treatment, the dentist performs a thorough dental exam to ensure they’re the right solution for your needs. Dr. Thompson also evaluates the condition of your bite to prevent future damage or problems because of a bad or uneven bite.
Will porcelain veneers damage my teeth in the long run?
No. Porcelain veneers are durable shells that protect your teeth from future cosmetic imperfections. They’re highly resistant to stains from common foods as well.
Are porcelain veneers removable?
Due to the amount of tooth structure we remove to make room for porcelain veneers, they’re a permanent restoration. If your veneers become damaged over time, we can repair or replace them to keep your smile looking great.
How long does it take to get porcelain veneers?
The time it takes to get porcelain veneers can vary, but usually, Dr. Thompson can complete your treatment in two to three visits. During the first visit, he’ll prepare your teeth and take impressions. We’ll send the impressions to a lab where a lab tech will custom-make them to fit your teeth. At the second visit, Dr. Thompson will place the dental veneers on your teeth. The whole process usually takes a couple of weeks to complete.
How much do porcelain veneers cost?
The cost for placing porcelain veneers will vary from patient to patient. It depends on the condition of your teeth and the number and size of veneers being placed. Dr. Thompson will present the estimated cost of treatment after your consultation and exam. Porcelain veneers are more costly than alternatives such as tooth bonding but provide a superior and lasting result.
How many teeth should I get porcelain veneers on?
Most people get porcelain veneers on their front teeth, which are the teeth you see when you smile. Dr. Thompson typically places about six to ten dental veneers at a time to ensure the patient’s smile looks balanced and natural. During your consultation, we’ll help you decide how many teeth to get veneers on based on your specific needs and goals for your smile.
Do I have to avoid certain foods or drinks once I get porcelain veneers?
Once you have porcelain veneers, we suggest that you avoid some foods and drinks to keep your smile looking great. Stay away from hard foods like nuts and candy that can chip or crack your new dental veneers. Also, try not to drink too many dark liquids like coffee or red wine, as they might stain your teeth veneers. Stick to easy-to-chew foods and lighter drinks to help your porcelain veneers last longer and stay bright.
Schedule A Porcelain Veneers Consultation
To learn more about porcelain veneers and to discuss your cosmetic goals, schedule a dental exam with your dentist in Greeley, CO, Dr. Joseph Thompson. Contact our dental office in Greeley at 970-205-9614 or request an appointment online today.