Dental veneers are thin shells of porcelain ceramic that we use to cover the front of the teeth. This long-lasting cosmetic dental treatment treats stained teeth, damaged or injured teeth, and gaps between teeth. We ensure that patients have a good amount of healthy tooth enamel, with no problems with tooth decay, gum disease, or TMJ before recommending veneers.
These problems can impact the fit and look of the veneers as well as the health of the teeth underneath.
Porcelain Veneers in Leland, NC
We will assess your oral health to ensure that you are healthy enough to receive cosmetic treatment. To begin treatment, we prepare your teeth by removing a small portion of the tooth enamel. This is done so that the veneers easily conform to the teeth. We will then take impressions of the teeth that are sent to a dental laboratory.
After the veneers are complete, we place the porcelain veneers on the teeth to check the fit and color. Finally, the veneers are permanently cemented to the teeth.
The number of veneers that you need depends on your budget and oral health goals. Some patients may only need one veneer to cover a single tooth while others may want to cover all of their teeth. During a consultation with our team, we can figure out how many veneers are needed for your treatment.
How Long Do Veneers Last?
Dental veneers are best for patients that are committed to permanent cosmetic care. After several years, you may need to come to our office for minor repairs. But for the best results, brush and floss gently and visit at least twice a year for a professional cleaning and examination. Properly maintaining the health of your teeth and gums lengthens the lifespan of restorative and cosmetic dental care.
Porcelain Veneer FAQs
There are multiple commonly asked questions about porcelain veneers that we would like to answer for our patients:
What do dental veneers treat?
Porcelain veneers are used to treat:
- Chips and cracks in teeth
- Severely stained or discolored teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Misshapen teeth
- Fractured teeth
How long does it take for veneers to settle?
On average it takes about two weeks for porcelain veneers to settle. During the first two weeks after they are placed patients may feel minor discomfort, however this should go away within two weeks.
How long do porcelain veneers stay white?
Porcelain veneers should stay white for around 10 years. The average lifespan for veneers is about 10-12 years. After that time we recommend replacing them.
Do porcelain veneers hurt?
No, we use a local anesthetic to numb the treated area during porcelain veneer treatment. We can also use nitrous oxide for patients with dental fear or anxiety so they feel relaxed and calm. You will feel no pain during treatment but may feel some soreness afterward. Over-the-counter pain medicine can restore your comfort and minimize any swelling.
Are veneers permanent?
Although porcelain veneers are not truly permanent, they last for many years when cared for properly. Maintaining a good diet, brushing and flossing at home, and visiting our office for routine visits keep porcelain veneers in good shape. During routine dental visits, we can repair any areas of damage and ensure that the veneers fit properly.
Call Our Waterford Dental Office
Restore balance to your smile with our porcelain veneer treatment. Schedule a consultation with our team online or call our Waterford, North Carolina dental office today at 910-519-1624.