Porcelain veneers, also called dental veneers, can help improve your smile and strengthen your teeth.
Take a look at our comprehensive guide to porcelain dental veneers available from Parkcrest Dental Group in Springfield, Missouri.
What are porcelain veneers?
Dental veneers go on individual teeth as a custom-made, thin shell that adheres to the front of each tooth. Porcelain veneers last a long time, and they create a natural look that closely matches your original teeth.
What dental issues do porcelain veneers correct?
Our dentists in Springfield, Missouri, can correct a few problems with dental veneers, including:
- Crooked or misshapen teeth.
- Stained teeth that cannot be whitened by bleaching or other teeth whitening procedures.
- Chipped teeth.
- Worn teeth.
- Large gaps in between front teeth.
What are the benefits of porcelain veneers?
Dental veneers provide several benefits, such as:
- Improving the strength of a tooth.
- Long-lasting protection and improvement of your smile.
- Natural-looking surface.
- Removing less tooth structure compared to a crown or cap.
- Stain-resistant materials.
How long do porcelain veneers last?
Dental veneers can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years when you take reasonable precautions and perform regular oral hygiene. The average lifespan is about 20 years.
How thin are porcelain veneers?
They are about as thin as a contact lens.
Are porcelain veneers permanent?
Dentists do not consider veneers a permanent procedure because they may need to be replaced over time, but they can last decades.
Porcelain veneers are irreversible, though.
Does it hurt for me to get porcelain veneers?
No. Most patients report no pain or discomfort because having a porcelain veneer is minimally invasive. Your Parkcrest Dental Group doctor will answer all of your questions and alleviate your concerns.
What does a dentist use to attach a porcelain veneer to my tooth?
Your dentist uses a special dental bonding blue or cement to attach a dental veneer to the front of your tooth.
How long does it take to get porcelain veneers in Springfield, MO?
This process usually takes three to four weeks from start to finish.
Your dentist determines if a porcelain veneer is appropriate for your situation. The initial consultation is 15 to 20 minutes.
During the second appointment, which may last up to an hour, your dentist removes a very thin layer of enamel from the biting surface of the tooth to prepare the surface for the veneer. Following this removal, your dentist takes a wax impression of your tooth before sending it to the lab. During this appointment, you choose the shade of your dental veneer. Your dentist may give you a temporary veneer until the permanent one comes in.
Once the permanent porcelain veneer comes back from the lab one to two weeks later, your final appointment includes installation of the permanent veneer. This appointment may take one to two hours.
How long does an appointment for porcelain veneers in Springfield, Missouri, take?
Anywhere from one to two hours.
How does a dentist in Springfield, Missouri, apply a porcelain veneer to my tooth?
Your dentist follows several steps to apply a dental veneer to your tooth at the final appointment:
- Roughens the surface of the tooth for better adhesion with the bonding glue. Your dentist uses a simple grinding tool to accomplish this.
- Applies dental glue or cement to make sure the veneer adheres to the tooth correctly.
- Places the veneer carefully over the tooth. The veneer must fit perfectly for your smile and bite to look great! It’s already custom-made from the lab. When your dentist places the veneer perfectly on the surface of the tooth, it ensures a long-lasting appearance.
- Cures the veneer with light. This allows the cement to bond to the tooth and the veneer properly.
- Smooths out the edges of the veneer. This ensures a perfect fit on all edges of the tooth.
- Polishes the veneer. As a final step, your dentist polishes the porcelain veneer to make sure it looks correct.
- Then your dentist asks you questions about the fit of the veneer. Does it feel right on your tooth? Does it look great? Do you have any questions about caring for it?
How can I protect my porcelain veneers from wear?
You can protect your dental veneers from wear by taking care of your teeth in general. If you grind your teeth at night, called bruxism, a nightguard can protect your veneers when you’re sleeping. A dentist at Parkcrest Dental Group will custom-make a nightguard to protect your veneers at night.
Clenching your teeth can also lead to chipped veneers. Your dentist can give you more tips for protecting veneers if you grind or clench your teeth.
During the day, avoid hard foods that can chip veneers. They are made of porcelain, and they can crack under the right amount of force and pressure.
Do my teeth rot under veneers?
There is a possibility that your teeth can still decay or develop plaque and tartar over time. If your tooth develops cavities, it might not be able to support the veneer any longer. If decay is present on teeth, your dentist will have to treat the decay first before placing a veneer. The best way to protect teeth against decay is to practice great oral hygiene (by brushing and flossing your teeth every day) and avoiding sugary foods and drinks.
Am I a good candidate for porcelain veneers?
Your dentist in Springfield, Missouri, will determine if you’re a good candidate for dental veneers.
At Parkcrest Dental Group, we’ll take a look at:
- Minor imperfections or flaws in your tooth.
- Good overall oral health.
- Existing enamel on your tooth.
- Whether or not you grind or clench your teeth.
- Your dental hygiene.
Your situation may vary, but we’ll talk you through everything you need to know about porcelain veneers.
Are porcelain veneers covered by dental insurance?
That depends on your coverage. Contact your insurance company for more information.
Are porcelain veneers just for front teeth?
In general, it’s typically best to have dental veneers on your front four teeth that are most visible when you smile.
How do porcelain veneers cover gaps between teeth?
Your dentist applies porcelain veneers to both of the front teeth where the gap exists. The dental veneers are slightly larger than your current teeth, and the porcelain materials meet at a natural point in between both teeth to close the gap.
Where can I get porcelain veneers in Springfield, Missouri?
Are you interested in porcelain veneers? Contact Parkcrest Dental or call (417) 887-1220 for more information or to make an appointment with us.
