What’s the first thing you notice when you meet someone new? Is it their clothes? Their hair? The strength of their handshake? If you are like most people, the first thing you notice is someone’s smile. So if you are unhappy with the look of your own teeth, it can make you very self-conscious. Fortunately, modern cosmetic dentistry can dramatically improve your appearance with a variety of treatments. For instance, porcelain veneers at our Dallas, TX, practice, can conceal multiple blemishes and renew your smile.
At Lakewood Dental Group, Drs. Sigurdson and Patel offer beautifully lifelike veneers. And if this treatment is not right for you, they will make an honest assessment, recommending an alternative solution.
Before you choose veneers or any other cosmetic treatment, it’s important to have all the facts. Read on for some must-know information about porcelain veneers. Still have questions? Contact us to learn more or to book an appointment.
1. Porcelain Veneers Can Correct Many Different Problems.
Some dental treatments can address only one concern. But porcelain veneers are a versatile option that can conceal various aesthetic concerns at the same time. By attaching these thin shells to the front of your teeth, your dentist can address:
- Internal staining
- Minor misalignment that does not merit orthodontia
- Small cracks and chips
- Worn edges
- Proportionately small teeth
- Pointed teeth
- Gapped teeth
2. Modern Porcelain Is Very Realistic.
Today’s dental porcelain is remarkably lifelike. Not only can your dentist find a shade that is a near-perfect match to your teeth. The material is also slightly translucent so it will sparkle just like tooth enamel.
3. You Must Have Healthy Enamel to Be a Candidate.
To place porcelain veneers, your Dallas dentist will need to remove a small layer of enamel. This will not be enough to weaken your tooth, but it will make a stronger bonding surface for the porcelain. It will also keep the veneers from looking bulky.
The initial step does mean that you must have enough enamel to begin with. If you have sustained enamel erosion, we can help you find a more suitable treatment. For example, dental bonding offers similar results but does not require any tooth prep.
4. Tooth Decay Will Affect Your Candidacy.
If you have a previous filling or current decay, the affected teeth will not be able to support a veneer. Dr. Sigurdson or Dr. Patel will suggest a different treatment, depending on the extent of the damage. If you have a very large cavity, a crown may be appropriate. If damage is less severe, dental bonding may be an option.
5. Veneers Are Low-Risk.
The tooth preparation process might sound intimidating, but the truth is that it is very safe with minimal risks. Some patients do experience a little sensitivity after this step, especially in response to heat and cold, but it usually goes away in a few days. In the meantime, over-the-counter anti-inflammatories can reduce discomfort.
6. Veneers Are a Permanent Commitment.
Because your teeth will be missing some of its protective coating, veneers are not reversible. If a veneer is damaged or comes off, you must replace it.
7. Veneers Are Durable.
Veneers are not permanent, but they do last a long time. According to one large-scale study, veneers have a 96% survival rate at 5 years and a 93% survival rate at 10 years.
8. Veneers Are Easy to Maintain.
Of course, proper maintenance will help your veneers last as long as possible. Fortunately, caring for veneers is as easy as caring for your non-treated teeth. You will simply need to brush and floss daily and schedule your biannual dental visits. You will be able to eat normally without any dietary restrictions.
9. You’ll Need to Cut Out Bad Habits.
While no foods are off limits with veneers, certain bad habits should be avoided. Putting excessive pressure on your teeth can damage the porcelain or even make it come off. For instance, biting your nails, chewing on ice, or mindlessly gnawing a pencil can be very harmful to dental porcelain. And they are not good habits for general oral health to begin with!
10. Teeth Grinding Can Affect Your Candidacy.
Porcelain is strong, but it is not as sturdy as dental enamel, which is the hardest substance in the human body. Therefore, you should let your dentist know if you suffer from chronic teeth grinding and clenching (or bruxism). In some cases, grinding may disqualify you from treatment. In others, you may still be able to receive veneers after addressing your bruxism. Often, this simply involves wearing a custom mouthguard while you sleep.
11. Veneers Are Stain Resistant.
Unlike dental tissue, which is porous, porcelain veneers are impervious to stains. But this doesn’t mean that you can drink coffee and red wine without consequences! Your dentist will carefully choose a porcelain that matches your other teeth. If your teeth become stained, the veneers will no longer correspond.
12. Veneers Aren’t Usually Covered by Insurance.
Dental insurance does not typically cover the cost of elective cosmetic treatment. (Although if you are interested in veneers to correct the effects of injury or trauma, you may be eligible for some coverage.)
But even though insurance doesn’t cover the treatment, we want our patients to enjoy affordable, high-quality porcelain veneers. Our Dallas office works with third-party financing companies CareCredit® and Lending Club. These companies offer fixed and low-interest loans to qualified patients. We are also proud to offer an in-house membership plan. This includes preventive services and significant discounts on cosmetic care.
Contact Lakewood Dental Group Today
For more information about porcelain veneers, contact our Dallas, TX office. We can answer any questions or schedule you for a cosmetic consultation with one of our skilled practitioners.
Complete our online appointment request form or give us a call at 214-827-1885.
