Do you have cosmetic teeth imperfections that hinder you from showing off your beautiful smile? Porcelain veneers offer a unique way to customize the appearance of 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.
Made from ultra-thin, high-quality ceramic porcelain, veneers customize the color, shape, and overall appearance of your teeth. They treat a wide range of dental concerns.
The Porcelain Veneers Process
Changing the appearance 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 underlying dental problems related to the function or structure of your bite, they may need to be addressed as part of treatment for a stable result.
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 structure to enable the placement of the veneers. Once this is complete dental impressions will be taken, and temporary veneers will be placed while your custom veneers are fabricated in a dental lab.
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, reflecting light like natural teeth and blending seamlessly with your smile. As an added benefit, the material is also stain-resistant compared to tooth enamel. 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 cosmetic concerns. 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, 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 require 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, 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 lead to chipping on your veneers.
Porcelain Veneers FAQs
Am I a candidate for porcelain veneers?
Most patients can receive porcelain veneer. Before any treatment, the dentist performs a thorough dental exam to ensure they are the right solution for your needs. Dr. Thompson also evaluates the condition of your bite to prevent future damage or problems due to 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 are highly resistant to stains from common foods as well.
Are porcelain veneers removable?
Due to the amount of tooth structure needed for the stable placement of porcelain veneers, they are considered 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?
Our dentist in Greeley, CO can place dental veneers in a single dentist office visit. Porcelain veneers are permanent and usable after just a few hours.
How much do porcelain veneers cost?
The cost for placing porcelain veneers will vary from patient to patient, depending 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.
Schedule A Porcelain Veneers Consultation
To learn more about porcelain veneers and to discuss your cosmetic goals, schedule a consultation 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.