Dentists use porcelain veneers to eliminate imperfections in smiles, such as gaps, stains, chips, or misshapen teeth, however they can also provide a beautiful new smile after tooth damage or wear as a result of a bite disorder. Porceain veneers are an extremely versatile option for patients to correct cosmetic issues while also restoring function to their smile.
They are made from ultra-thin, high-quality ceramic materials and are permanently bonded to the tooth’s surface. This creates a natural look patients can be proud of for years to come.
For more than 20 years, our dentist in Annapolis, MD has been using porcelain veneers to improve the beauty and health of patients’ smiles.
What are porcelain veneers?
A porcelain veneer is a very thin shell that covers the front and sides of a tooth. This shell is bonded into place and will cover up any cosmetic blemish. Porcelain is very similar in appearance to a real tooth, so that the veneers will look natural.
If shaped and installed correctly, they should feel completely natural in your mouth. You won’t even notice them when you are talking or eating. A dental veneer is a permanent, irreversible dental restoration that is highly stain resistant. They eliminate the worry of your teeth turning yellow over time.
The high-quality ceramic used for porcelain veneers is durable and more stain resistant than natural tooth enamel. We can color-match them to blend in with your existing teeth and overall appearance.
Dr. Sheen uses porcelain veneers to correct and address many dental issues, including:
- Gaps between teeth
- Chipped or broken teeth
- The appearance of misaligned or crooked teeth
- The shape or length of teeth
- Stained, discolored, or yellow teeth
- Aging teeth that have worn down
Process for Porcelain Veneer in Annapolis, MD
Proper planning is essential to understanding each patient’s aesthetic goals. This helps to determine what type and style of porcelain veneer you will need. To ensre that we understand all of your smile goals, the first step of the process for porcelain veneers is an initial consultation.
After a thorough smile examination, Dr. Sheen will discuss your expectations to ensure the procedure results in the comfortable, natural smile you expected. He will outline each step of the process for porcelain veneers, and discuss exactly wat you expect so that way patients are aware of the process before it begins.
During your first visit, the dentist will remove a small amount of enamel from each tooth that requires a veneer. After this process is complete, Dr. Sheen will take an impression of your smile. A dental lab will use these to create the porcelain veneers.
He will then prepare your teeth for temporary fittings to wear while your permanent restorations are being created.
Your new porcelain veneers will be ready to replace the temporaries in approximately 2-3 weeks. Dr. Sheen will try the dental veneers on for fit and color and make any minor adjustments.
Dr. Sheen will permanently bond these to your teeth and then polish them to a natural luster. We will give you specific care instructions to ensure that your new veneers are cared for and can support long-term dental health. If veneers are properly cared for they can last a lifetime.
Porcelain Veneers Aftercare
Afteracre is crucial to the longevity of your porcelain veneers. It is important that patients brush and floss their teeth atleast twice daily to maintain their overall oral health and the health of their veneers. Scheduling regular oral examintations and cleaning will also benefit your veneers and the rest of your smile. Additionally, patients who bite their nails pr grind their teeth should refrain from these hobbies as they are likely to cause damage to veneers.
Benefits of Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers offer many benefits to patients including aesthetics and durability. They may be used to correct and treat a variety of issues such as tooth discoloration, misalignment, cracks, and chipped teeth making them an extremely versatile cosmetic treatment. Not only do veneers restore aesthetics to patients smiles, they also increase functionality and are extremely durable. If properly cared for porcelain veneers can last up to 15 years or longer.
Porcelain Veneers FAQs
Do you have further questions about porcelain veneers, the benefits they offer, and the process for placing them? Continue reading to find answers to frequently asked questions in our office.
Are porcelain veneers better than bonding?
Depending on your issue, getting a porcelain veneer might be better than getting tooth bonding. Veneers are much more permanent than dental bonding. They offer sturdy protection and will not chip or crack as easily as temporary tooth bonding. They are also more aesthetically pleasing than bonding, and are much more durable.
Does getting a porcelain veneer hurt?
No. Getting a porcelain veneer does not hurt your teeth. Your dentist will ensure that you are completely comfortable before the procedure begins. We will numb your mouth with local anesthesia to prevent discomfort during the procedure as well. Patients may feel minor sensitivity and discomfort after the anesthetic has worn off, but this is will go away once you bein to adjust to your new veneer.
How long does a porcelain veneer last?
A porcelain veneer will last as long as you keep your mouth healthy, brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss, and use mouthwash. Your dentist will also help keep your veneer in great condition during routine dental visits. There is no special care you need to do to keep your veneer in top condition.
Schedule a Consultation for Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are a natural, permanent way to restore form and function to your smile. They offer a variety of functional and aesthetic benefits to patients. With proper care and maintenance, they will last for many years.
If you think your smile could benefit from porcelain veneers, contact the Annapolis dental office of Dr. Sheen today to schedule a preliminary consultation. We also offer Lumineers, no prep dental veneer for a less permanent transformation. Call (443) 482-5202 or request a consultation online.